Ten Reasons to Pack Duct Tape When You Travel

Duct tape bandage

Accidents happen sometimes when traveling. Keeping a little duct tape for first aid helps when there isn't a store nearby for supplies. Get rid of splinters by sticking duct tape on the splinter and lifting it out with the tape. Hold a small wound together with duct tape until you can get to a doctor.

Wrap duct tape around your suitcase a few times. It will be less tempting to thieves who like to rifle quickly through a suitcase when the owner is out of sight. They will likely choose something they can unzip and close quickly instead of a suitcase they have to take time to unwrap from duct tape.

Closing the gap

Duct tape is a great tool to use when the motel curtains won't close. Just tape the curtains at the gap with the strips of tape overlapping.

Secure small valuables or breakable items in a suitcase by taping down items so they won't roll around and break. Also tape a piece over liquid container lids like shampoos or pill bottles. It will keep the lids on while the luggage is going through customs and onto the conveyor belts.

Duct taped luggage

When traveling by car, duct tape can be used in a pinch to tie down the luggage on the roof. Cable tie-downs are best but if they break, duct tape is a good temporary solution.

Duct tape protects in cold climates

People who ski love duct tape as an insulator under clothing when the cold is too bitter. Skiers that travel to competitions frequently wear duct tape on their face so the wind won't sting their skin on the way down the slope.

Duct tape war

Travelers going to Mount Royal, Montreal, have a unique reason for taking duct tape on their travels. Every Sunday in Mount Royal behind The Tam Tams, which is a famous market and drum circle gathering travel destination, there is another little-known activity. Locals and travelers gather together to do mock battle with weapons made from duct tape.

Tropical vacations are wonderful, except for occasional tropical bugs. Stick two strips of duct tape together and hang the strip up to catch any pesky flying bugs. Wilderness and camping buffs are able to use duct tape for this as well in their tents.

Waterproof pants repair

Some travel destinations have a lot of wet weather but that won't stop the die-hard traveler from walking tours and sightseeing. Wrap shoes in duct tape to keep feet warm and dry. Repair tears in waterproof clothing such as raincoats with a strip of duct tape.

When traveling with small children, place duct tape over electrical outlets and furniture corners, keeping out small fingers and protecting small bodies from bumps and bruises. Duct tape a race track or a hopscotch game for free fun in the hotel room for bored kids.