Travel Packing 101
Summer is the time for travel!
This summer has me feeling like we’ve been set free, finally! The travel bug seems to have bit us all and we’re jetting off to the far corners of the world. But how do you do it without bringing 10 suitcases and every accessory you own?!
There are a number of key tips I follow for each trip I take. And it starts with asking myself a few questions to lay the groundwork to pack successfully.
How many days/nights am I traveling? What’s the weather like there? Are there any special occasions/outings that I need to keep in mind? Do I want to check a bag or only carry-on?
I do not like being caught hundreds, if not thousands, of miles from home without everything I’m going to need. However, I do keep in mind that if I forget anything that’s vitally important, I’ll probably be able to buy a replacement when I get there (fingers crossed).
Now for the packing…
Pack light - I can’t stress this enough. Unless you want your entire closet with you, you’ve got to pair it down and figure out what you really need versus what you don’t. And if you can do laundry at your final destination, you’re winning! Bring half of what you normally would because you can wash it all.
Plan out each outfit that you plan to wear - Make a list!! I start with Day 1… Day 2… Can I remix items into different outfits without bringing additional pieces? By wearing the same shirt with a different bottom, or by adding a sweater, you can change the entire look and have a “new” outfit from what’s already in the suitcase.
File-fold your clothes - Just like you would in your dresser. The amount of space you save by folding the right way is surprising. Plus, you can see everything you’ve brought without having to unpack it all!
Pack shoes in a shoe bag - This is key to keeping your clothing fresh and clean. No one wants their local city sidewalk germs hanging out on their clean clothes. Pack an extra shoe bag inside a shoe to act as a dirty laundry bag. You can even stuff socks and other small items into shoes as a space saver!
Use a jewelry organizer - There’s nothing worse than unpacking your jewelry and finding a necklace knotted up, earrings missing, you name it. A small investment in a zip-organizer with lots of handy compartments makes finding the perfect bracelet for your dinner out a snap.
Travel-sized toiletries are a must - Trying to lug full-sized shampoo in a checked back is simply a waste of valuable space. If you can’t find a travel-size version of your toiletries at Sephora, make your own. There are so many containers out there that can save space and not force you to check a bag, use them!
Use a large tote or backpack as your personal item - I don’t like to send anything under the plane that is of value to me, that can melt, or be damaged by the unknown trip your checked bag will take. I use the largest personal item I can get away with that will rest nicely on top of my carry-on suitcase. By using compact containers for jewelry, toiletries, etc., everything fits nicely together like a puzzle. I even put my purse inside the larger bag to make the best use of the limited under-seat space.
Now you’re ready to go. Safe travels!