You’ll encounter many milestones throughout a relationship, from saying “I love you” for the first time to getting engaged. However, one all too often overlooked milestone is the importance of the first romantic trip you take together. Whether you’re history buffs exploring Civil War destinations on a Mississippi vacation or you’re taking to the Gulf Coast in your most tantalizing bikini, your getaway can be one you’ll remember for a lifetime.
Like any trip, though, your romantic vacation has some crucial packing requirements. After all, who wants to arrive at the vacation rental only to realize you left something essential behind? By thinking through a detailed packing list in advance, you can make sure you have all you’ll need for an intimate trip. Better yet, you can reuse the same list to ensure you don’t leave everything behind when you head home again!
Your Camera
The one on your phone counts, too! Let’s say this relationship is your end game—this is the person you’ll be vacationing with for a lifetime. In that case, won’t you want to have documented the memories of your first trip together? As a bonus, photos can serve as a way to soothe any worried friends or family members back home. If your vacationing with a new special someone makes your loved ones nervous, a quick text to Mom or Snapchat to your best friend can show that you’re alive and well (and hopefully having a great time).
Something Sexy
Whether you and your partner have been hooking up since the first date or you haven’t crossed that line just yet, sexual attraction can seem to be enhanced through your travels, especially if you’re sharing accommodations. There’s a good reason that “there’s only one bed” is such a popular trope—it happens! But, of course, you’re already seeing this person, which takes shared accommodations to a whole new level. So, if you suspect you might be sharing intimate moments on this trip, be sure to pack your sexiest cheeky panties or other lingerie to help set the mood. And, of course, be sure that you, your partner, or both of you pack protection, too!
A Guidebook
All too many getaways, especially when you’ve only just started dating, turn to explosive arguments over ideas as insignificant as what attractions you’ll make a point of seeing. One easy way to avoid these disagreements is to stick with the classic tourist stops along your route. You may even have the chance to take a pre-formulated tour that takes away all the guesswork for you.
Your Itinerary
Your guidebook may outline relevant points of interest, but it won’t remind you of when checkout ends at your hotel or what time you have to be at the airport. So whether you note these crucial details in one place or gather your documentation, you’ll have one less thing to worry about—leaving more room to enjoy your trip.
Something Romantic
What kind of trip would you have with your partner if you didn’t add some romance? Not one fit for your first trip with this person. Whether it’s a candlelight picnic, a bottle of champagne, or their favorite snack, even the smallest touch can have a significant impact.
A Backup Plan
You naturally want to go on this trip with high hopes, but you want to be realistic at the same time. Your safety and well-being are critical factors, and with stories like Gabby Petito’s in the news, it’s a fear that’s top of mind for many. So send any relevant travel details to loved ones well before vacation time and be sure they know crucial information about your travel companion. You very well may have nothing to worry about—but it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Your first trip with a loved one can be exciting and nerve-wracking at the same time. By making sure your luggage is as well-packed as possible, you can ensure you’re as prepared as you can be for whatever this trip brings.
