OK ladies, time to come clean – how are you (truly) at packing for travel? No shame – we have stuff.
Luckily, there are a few tips to help you pack better, stay more organized and give you better accessibility to your most needed items, hopefully ensuring a stress-free travel experience. Not to mention, one of the best ways to relieve stress (and cost) from travel, ultimately allowing for more travel, is condensing down to carry-on bags (#TeamCarryOn).
Whether traveling with the family or on a roadtrip with friends, the key to success starts with packing efficiently.
Can you do it?? Here is some help to get you on your way!
Tips To Help You Pack Better #1: Start with a List
While it should go without saying, first and foremost, make a packing list to ensure you don’t forget anything important. Depending on where you’re staying and itinerary, plan on packing roughly one and a half outfits per day. A packing list is essential as it helps you stay organized and avoid overpacking. There is such thing as too much underwear! Start by jotting down necessities such as clothing, toiletries, and any specific items you’ll need for your trip. After that, write down the “nice-to-haves” and go from there!
Tips To Help You Pack Better #2: Choose Versatile Clothing
I get it. We want to look our best. I fully understand the importance of having the perfect outfits. When packing for travel, however, try going for pieces that can be mixed and matched to create different looks. Does that mean giving up on the idea of not clashing completely? Not at all. Just practice experimenting with different looks until you find the right combination.
Similarly, choose items that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. With a bit of practice, and the right arrangement and compliments, you’ll have more options without taking up too much space in your luggage.
For instance, if you plan on going to fancy dinners, pack a few dressier tops along with your more casual wear.
Tips To Help You Pack Better #3: Efficient Packing Techniques
This is a tip I wish I had come across sooner, as it has been a complete game changer for me. If the goal is space saving, rolling your clothes instead of folding them is the way to go. Not only do you get more space, but your clothes also have the potential to stay wrinkle-free.
Another life-saver for me has been the use of packing cubes or small bags to separate different items. In using these pretty affordable items, you can easily find what you’re looking for without rummaging through your entire suitcase. I recommend these packing cubes from HERE, as the ones I use when traveling.
Tips To Help You Pack Better #4: Don’t Skimp on Hydration and Snacks
Pack a reusable water bottle and some snacks for the journey. Staying hydrated and having a few snacks on hand can make a long trip much more sustainable (and enjoyable). I always have a separate bag just for snacks and drinks, ensuring I’m never without refreshments. As a money saving tip, If your hotel and/or Airbnb has a refrigerator or kitchen, use them! Groceries are significantly less expensive than going out to eat.
Pick a few restaurants in the area you know you would like to try and otherwise try and snack through the day.
Tips To Help You Pack Better #5: Have a Travel Plan
Lastly, and most importantly, try and know as much about where you’re going as possible, to take advantage of your environment and reduce redundancies. Is there a pool or beach? If not, leave the swim suit. Will there be laundry on site? If so, that can be a good opportunity to pack less outfits altogether. Will there be a kicthen? See the above paragraph.
By following the above tips, you should be well on the way to organizing your luggage and adding extra space for things you may buy on your trip. Packing doesn’t have to be stressful, and with a little planning, your journey will be much more enjoyable. Happy travels!
