DREAM VACATION TOURS

ULTIMATE PACKING GUIDE

Pack Smart. Travel Easy. Enjoy Every Moment.

PACKING FOR YOUR MOTORCOACH TOUR

 

START WITH THE RIGHT BAGS

  • 1 suitcase per person (stored under the coach)
  • 1 carry-on bag
    • The overhead compartment has an opening of approximately 9 inches high and 17 inches deep, so your carry-on must be soft-sided and compact enough to fit within these dimensions.
  • Couples are encouraged to share one carry-on to help with space

WHAT TO PACK IN YOUR CARRY-ON (ON THE MOTOR COACH)

Think: anything you may need throughout the day

 

Essentials

  • Valid ID / Passport
  • Travel documents
  • Medications (always keep with you)

Comfort Items

  • Neck pillow, light blanket or scarf
  • Eye mask
  • Book, eReader (Kindle, etc…), or puzzle book
  • Headphones or earbuds

Tech & Must-Haves

  • Phone + charger
  • iPad/tablet
  • Portable battery pack (highly recommended)

Personal Items

  • Hand sanitizer
  • Sunscreen
  • Lip balm
  • Glasses / sunglasses

Clothing

  • Light sweater or jacket
    • Temperatures on the motor coach can vary, and it can be difficult to keep everyone comfortable at all times. We recommend bringing a light sweater, jacket, or even a small blanket so you can adjust to your own comfort level during the journey.

Snacks

  • Light, non-perishable snacks
  • We provide snacks and water, but feel free to bring your favorites
  • Please note that guests with food intolerances may find that some of the provided snacks are not suitable. We recommend bringing your own snacks to ensure you have options that meet your needs.

WHAT TO PACK IN YOUR SUITCASE

Clothing Tips

  • Pack lightweight, mix-and-match outfits
  • Think layers for changing weather
  • Bring comfortable walking shoes (very important!)

Toiletries

  • Personal toiletries
  • Travel-size items where possible to save space

Leave Room!

  • Save space for souvenirs—you’ll likely bring more home than you packed!

PACK FOR THE SEASON & DESTINATION

  • We travel all year long, so it’s important to pack with both the season and destination in mind.
  • Heading south? Think light clothing, sun protection, and breathable fabrics
  • Travelling in spring or fall? Pack layers for changing temperatures
  • Winter travel? Bring warm outerwear, gloves, and proper footwear
  • Weather can vary throughout your trip, so layering is always your best strategy.

PRO PACKING TIPS

  • Pack light – Less is more when traveling by coach
  • Use packing cubes or compression bags to stay organized
  • Roll your clothes to save space and reduce wrinkles
  • Use your shoes to store socks or small items
  • Bring a small day bag for excursions and sightseeing
  • Keep valuables and essentials with you at all times

DAY BAG ESSENTIALS

Bring a small empty day bag for excursions and sightseeing:

  • Wallet
  • Phone
  • Water bottle
  • Sunglasses
  • Light layer
  • Small purchases

PACKING FOR CRUISES

Set sail stress-free with these cruise-ready essentials

 

Must-Have Cruise Items

  • Cruise documents and valid ID/passport
  • Carry-on bag for embarkation day (your suitcase may arrive at your cabin later)
  • Medications (keep with you, not in checked luggage)
  • Swimsuit and flip-flops (if you want to go to the pool before your luggage arrives to your cabin)
  • Comfortable walking shoes for port days
  • Dressier outfit(s) for dinners or specialty dining
  • Light jacket or sweater (it can be breezy on deck)

Smart Cruise Extras

  • Reusable water bottle
  • Small empty backpack or tote for shore excursions
  • Motion sickness remedies (just in case)
  • Magnetic hooks (for cabin walls to hang items)

TRAVEL DOCUMENTS – WHAT YOU NEED TO BRING

Before you travel, make sure you have the correct documents based on your destination.

 

Travelling (all tours)

  • Government-issued photo ID (required)
  • Driver’s licence
  • Provincial ID card (if applicable)
  • Health card (recommended)
  • Travel insurance documents (if applicable)
  • A passport is not required for travel within Canada

Travelling to the United States or International (extra documents required)

  • Valid Passport (required)
  • Valid U.S. Visa or ESTA approval (depending on your country of citizenship)
  • Permanent Resident Card (PR Card) - if you are a permanent resident of Canada along with all proper documentation required to enter the another country based on your citizenship
  • Your passport must be valid for the duration of your trip for U.S.A. & International Tours
  • Your passport must be valid for a minimum of six (6) months of the arrival date if this is for a cruise
  • You may be asked standard border questions upon entry

Travelling Internationally (Outside Canada & USA)

  • Any required entry forms or documentation (varies by country)
  • Some countries require your passport to be valid for 6 months beyond your travel dates
  • Entry requirements can vary, so always check in advance

Helpful Tips

  • Keep all documents in your carry-on, not your suitcase
  • Bring photocopies or digital copies as backup
  • Make sure your name on your documents matches your booking exactly

Reminder

  • It is the responsibility of each guest to ensure they have the proper documentation for travel
  • If you are unsure, please verify your requirements well in advance of your trip

WHAT NOT TO PACK (TRUST US ON THIS!)

Sometimes what you leave behind is just as important as what you bring!!

 

Too many clothes - You won’t wear everything. Stick to outfits you can mix and match.

 

Heavy or oversized luggage - You’ll need to manage your own bag—keep it comfortable to handle.

 

Valuables in your suitcase - Always keep important items (documents, medication, electronics) in your carry-on or on your person

 

Brand new shoes - Blisters and long walking days don’t mix—bring broken-in footwear.

 

“Just in case” items you’ll never use - If you’re debating it, you probably don’t need it.

 

Large carry-ons - Overhead space is limited—keep it soft-sided and compact.

 

FINAL THOUGHT

Pack smart, pack light, and leave a little room—because the best souvenirs aren’t always the ones you planned for!