Five Items Your Students Will Forget to Pack

Students will inevitably forget to pack some important items before departing on tour, but what is most often forgotten? Here are the top five things we most commonly see forgotten, along with some ways to keep them from being left at home.

Uniforms/Concert Attire

Yes, it is possible that a student will forget to pack their uniform. However, it’s even more common for students to forget smaller pieces like black shoes, black socks, ties, or their music. The best plan is to have students keep everything they need together in a garment bag. No matter how many reminders you give, something may still be forgotten, so it’s best to have a chaperone bring extra shoes, socks, and even a back-up uniform or two.

Instrument Accessories and Tools

Remind your band and orchestra students to pack everything they need to keep their instrument in perfect working order, such as valve oil, strings, and reeds. If flying, remember that valve oil will need to be checked or placed in your 3-1-1 compliant liquids bag (and check out our TSA blog post to learn more about how to speed your way through airport security).

The Right Gear for the Weather

Check the weather in your destination a few days before you depart, as it may be vastly different from the weather at home. When headed to cold climates, be sure students bring their jackets, hats and gloves. If you’re headed for warm weather, bring sunscreen, lip balm, flip flops, water bottles, hats, sun glasses, and towels (if hitting the beach).

Electronics/Chargers

Your students will bring electronics like cell phones and tablets so they can keep themselves entertained, stay in contact, and document their trip. Remind them to bring all the chargers for their devices, along with a battery back-up if they have one. Also, have them check their hotel rooms for these items before they depart for home.

Toiletries/Sleepwear

Toiletries and sleepwear are one of the most commonly forgotten items by all travelers. In a quad occupancy room, no student wants to be left sleeping in their underwear. Suggest students place a sticky note on their bag or the door, reminding them to pack these items before they leave home.

How do you keep your group from forgetting important items? Share your ideas in the comments or on our Facebook and Twitter pages. Ready to pack but haven’t planned your trip yet? Contact us today to get started!