Texas, USA
Summer (June-August): Lightweight, breathable fabrics such as cotton, linen, and moisture-wicking materials are perfect. Pack shorts, t-shirts, tank tops, and plenty of Swimwear. A light cover-up or thin long-sleeved shirt offers sun protection and comfort in air-conditioned indoor spaces.
Winter (December-February): Pack jeans or trousers, long-sleeved shirts, and sweaters. A medium-weight jacket or coat is good, as temperatures drop with cold fronts. A Light scarf adds warmth and comfort.
Comfortable walking sandals or sneakers are ideal for exploring The Strand Historic District and museums.
Flip-flops or beach sandals are a necessity for the beach and boardwalk.
Water shoes are useful for rocky beach areas or shell-laden shores, protecting your feet.
Careful organization of your travel documents guards against complications and makes for a smooth journey.
Power Adapter and Voltage: The U.S. uses Type A and Type B plugs (two flat parallel pins or two flat parallel pins with a grounding pin). Voltage is 120V at 60Hz. If devices run on 220-240V, a Voltage converter and a Plug adapter are necessary. Most modern electronics are dual voltage; check charger label for "Input: 100-240V." A Universal travel adapter simplifies charging.
Camera Equipment: A Smartphone camera typically handles most tourist photos. For higher quality, a compact mirrorless or DSLR camera is a choice. A Waterproof camera, like a GoPro HERO12 Black, adds fun for water activities.
Bring Portable chargers for devices. A high-capacity Anker Power Bank is a good option.
Use services like Google Drive, Dropbox, or iCloud for backing up photos and documents.
A Hard drive is useful for large media files if you bring a laptop.
Pack a First aid kit with standard items: Band-Aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers (Ibuprofen/Acetaminophen), allergy medicine, antacids. For Galveston, add After-sun lotion, Hydrocortisone cream for bites/rashes, and Motion sickness medication for boat tours.
Insect Repellent: OFF! Deep Woods Insect Repellent with DEET helps with mosquitoes, especially at dawn and dusk or near marshy areas.
Swimwear, beach towels, and a beach Umbrella. Beach chairs and umbrellas are also rentable locally.
A fishing rod and tackle. These items are rentable or purchasable locally, or charters provide equipment.
Binoculars and a field guide enhance your birdwatching at spots like Galveston Island State Park. Kayaks/paddleboards are rentable.
Comfort Items: A Neck pillow and Eye mask for long flights or bus rides. A memory foam neck pillow greatly increases comfort during travel.
Reusable Items: A reusable Hydro Flask Water Bottle stays hydrated and reduces plastic waste. A Reusable shopping bag is useful for souvenirs. Reusable utensils are handy for picnics.
Reduces plastic waste
For purchases and souvenirs
For casual meals and picnics
Minimizes multiple chargers
Pack versatile items that mix and match to reduce luggage weight. Rolling clothes instead of folding them maximizes space.
Create a checklist and pack well in advance to avoid last-minute stress and forgotten items.