| The Belly Dancer's Travel Kit This is taken directly from my former website, and before that, my own experience...Let me know, pretty please, if I left anything out. When going to those workshops, I found that I was always so excited Iwould forget something. (Workshops are still my most favorite thing!! =) So, I got a large make-up box, and this is how I keep it stocked. A kit kept packed just for those dance trips can bemost helpful! Whether you use an old make-up case,or go out and buy one of those big make-up boxes, you will still have all the things you may need, without having to remember to pack it all! Just slip in the few things you will need for that trip, and off you go! Just remember to put your name and address (maybe even phone number) on your dance kit, in case it gets lost or left behind. 1. One of the first things to put in such a kit would be make-up. I suggest that it be kept stocked with your favorite colors you use most often. Now you won't be forgetting that lipstick, or eyeliner. .Also, travel deodorant, soap, toothbrush, anything hygiene, nail polish, and hairspray. If you are afraid that any of this may leak--keep it in a zip-lock baggy! You may even wish to include a few spare baggies, in case something does get messy. When I bought a silk veil when I was out of town for the weekend, I folded it neatly, and put it in a baggy for the trip home! No Stains, stretches, or tears! 2. Extra Safety Pins! The Dancer's best friend! 3. A tape of some of your favorite Oriental Dance music. That way, if you are asked for an encore, or even just an impromptu dance, you will have music other than your main performance music. (Don't forget to have a second copy of your performance music--just in case something happens to the first copy!) 4. Your business cards! You will likely meet a lot of people at your performances, let them know how to get in touch with you. 5. A sewing kit, complete with thread that matches your costume, and if feasible, some beads as well. 6. A set of earrings or other jewelry that can go with anything; in case you forget your costume jewelry. You may wish to include a hair clip that is in a style that can be used with any thing. 7. Baby wipes, cotton swaps, cotton balls, and even some of those Shout Wipe-Ups for on the spot cleanings! 8. An extra set of zills if you use them. 9. A list of emergency numbers (family members or whatever) in case you get stranded, or need help. Make sure that the list is easy to identify and legible, in case someone else must use the list if you are indisposed. 10. A small first aid kit. Include a pain reliever of your choice, as well as something for the tummy--you may be eating different foods that your body is not use to, and you will want to be prepared. Or it could just be a rough trip. It can also be helpful to keep extra, well-marked prescriptions in your case--in case you forget to grab them! Be sure to include expiration dates and warning on all medicines. 11. An extra car key in case you lock your keys in your car while you are out of town. I also keep an envelope with enough change for a telephone call, and either a blank check or some money in it for emergencies. Don't write anything on the envelope, except your name and maybe your phone number! Just put the things inside it, fold it up, and put it in your kit, toward the bottom. You may want to consider a traveler's cheque, since they are harder to use if stolen, and can be replace if necessary. 12. Clear fingernail polish. The polish can be used to secure loose threads on costumes, hip scarves, and thing's sewn. The polish will dry clear and keep the thread from unraveling, or the knot from untieing. Whenever I buy a new piece, the first thing I do is dap a bit of the clear polish on all knots--this has saved me countless hours trying to re-sew on beads and coins! |