Packing Tips With Green Thoughts 
Of course you know how to pack for a trip. You've probably been doing it since fourth grade sleepaway camp. And if you've looked at our Green Gear, you may have acquired some great new stuff. Even so, there are a few pointers we would like to pass on to make sure you are covering all the angles and minimizing your environmental footprint.
The 5 Items You Didn't Know You Needed
- Rain gear or a rain poncho
You're picturing sun and sand and steamy, verdant rainforests, and you're right, but you should also picture sudden soaking downpours. That's how it stays so green. Bring some lightweight, waterproof outerwear to keep yourself from mildewing. - Motion sickness relievers (wristbands, Dramamine)
If you're prone to feeling ill when you fly, you probably already have these in your carry-on. However, the roads leading to some of the most incredible scenery and destinations can put Six Flags to shame. - A headlamp
Sure they make you look cool, but headlamps also come in very handy if you're planning on taking one of our nighttime rainforest hikes. You'll be able to see where you're going, as well as what's chasing you. Just kidding! Or not. - Dry bag or reuse some old plastic bags
Things get wet, other things need to be saved for later, and still other things need to be protected from getting wet. They're light, reusable, and easy to pack, so take a few and you'll be glad you did. - Way less stuff
Keep your luggage total under 25 pounds - it saves fuel and ensures that you can get on smaller aircraft and boats with your bags.
The Rest of the List
- Clothing
- Your best bet is a mix of long and short sleeve shirts, as well as pants and shorts in nylon or cotton. This is one place where denim does not serve for every occasion. The weather can change quickly, and it's most likely to change from dry to wet or wet to dry, and frankly in jeans you're going to experience some chafing.
- Moisture-wicking socks
- Sturdy hiking/walking shoes
- Sport sandals
- Swimwear
- Brimmed hat
- A windbreaker or light jacket
- LED nightlight
These babies are the most energy efficient way of being able to find the bathroom in a strange hotel at night. - Digital camera
- Analog toothbrush and razor
- Sunscreen and bug repellent (Easy on the chemicals, please)
- Daypack for shorter hikes
- Small binoculars
- Water bottle
- Prescription medications
- Don't be tempted to reduce your luggage load by purchasing disposable cameras when you arrive - the packaging and printing process are pretty wasteful, especially since you won't know that you took multiple shots of the inside of your bag until you've already received your double prints.
- Swiss Army knife
- A handy tool for all situations, whether you're opening a bottle of wine on a terrace overlooking a volcano or making emergency repairs to your zipline in order to escape from a pack of howler monkeys. Just remember to pack it in your checked bag, MacGyver.
Be sure to ask us by posting a comment here at Adventures in Green if you have other questions about packing.