5 Essentials For A Short Monsoon Trip
Taking a vacation after a grim year of battling bad news from all fronts — all COVID-related — has taken a toll on many people’s mental health. A fresh surge of infections in India has laid to rest many a travel plan, maybe yours too. However, not all States have lockdowns though there might be some inter-State travel restrictions for a few months. If you can find a good flight for your intended holiday destination, you should book now.
Or better still, you might want to pack your bags and take a road trip to the nearest beach town or village for the best monsoon holiday ever. Though most people shy away from holidaying during the monsoon season, this is the best season to do so. For one thing, there are less crowds of tourists everywhere so you can explore the place in peace. For another, the romance of the season appeals to travellers who want to enjoy the sensation of a downpour on their skin.
Planning for a short monsoon holiday is one thing, packing for it is another. What do you take, and what do you leave out? We’ve compiled a few pointers on the essentials you need to pack, from a carry-on pouch for your period things to all your rain gear:
#1 A pair of sturdy flip flops.
You could be headed to the beach or a coastal town for your monsoon trip, or even a remote village with plenty of greenery. Either way, there’s a fair bit of walking to do, and you cannot squelch around in your usual canvas pumps or sneakers when it rains. Instead, invest in a pair of high-quality flip flops with a sturdy and thick sole that does not get stuck in wet mud or sand, and which can help you move about comfortably in all terrain. Flip flops are washable and can be dried easily, too.
#2 Period essentials in a handy pouch.
If your holiday coincides with the week you’re going to get your monthly period, it’s a bit of a bummer. You don’t want to worry about where and how often to change your pad, getting your pad wet if you’re caught in a shower, or worse, staining your clothes when you’re out of the hotel. Here’s something to put the cheer back in your holiday despite your impending period — get a new pack of soft, super-thin and highly absorbent Nua pads that will make you forget you’re wearing a sanitary napkin in the first place. Next, buy a handy Nuawoman carry on pouch for your period essentials — the carry on pouch can hold your stash of pads, panty liners, intimate hygiene wash and even a heating patch. Basically, put everything you need for a comfortable period in the carry on pouch, and pack it in your suitcase.
#3 Cotton and georgette clothing.
Wet clothing that remains damp for hours in the monsoon weather can smell funky and get mouldy, too. Fabrics like denim and woollens take ages to dispel the moisture and dry up completely. Wearing wet clothing is both uncomfortable and bad for the skin. Instead of denim jeans and shorts, carry light cotton pants, shorts, tees and tops. These might get soaked but they also dry faster. Georgettes and chiffon tops and skirts are also excellent options since they don’t hold water and dry up easily.
#4 Your own beach towel.
Are you headed to the beach for a swim followed by a drink and snacks on the sand? You might buy refreshments from a nearby shack or restaurant catering to holidayers like you. They might have swimsuits and beach towels on hire — we advise you to steer clear of these. You can’t be certain about how well they have been washed, and if they have been sanitised after their last use. Make sure you have your own swim suit and beach towel to maintain personal hygiene during a wet season.
#5 Rain gear.
Since you’re headed out during the monsoon season, you must have your own rain paraphernalia to keep yourself from getting drenched. This includes a raincoat or jacket, cap to protect your head, galoshes or gum boots if you don’t like wearing flip flops, and an umbrella. Also carry extra plastic bags to carry wet clothes and shoes.
Other important items to carry on your monsoon holiday include bug spray or insect repellent cream, digestive drops or tablets, extra change of clothes in case you extend your holiday, waterproof case for your cards and cash, and a water repellent suitcase cover. Have a scintillating monsoon break and the most memorable holiday ever!