It takes my husband about 20 minutes to pack for any trip. A few shirts, pants, shoes, toiletries, and he’s done. For me, it’s a different story. No matter the length of time I’ll be traveling, I start thinking about what I’m going to pack a couple weeks in advance. Part of it is excitement for the upcoming adventure, part of it is my need to have a plan.
I like to pack light. My ultimate goal is to fit everything I need in a carry-on size suitcase, ideally with a little extra room for souvenirs. I also like to feel comfortable and stylish as well as have the items I need for any occasion. My packing plan is always a work in progress, but I do have some tips for anyone looking for more organization and less chaos in their suitcase:
Write It Down
Whether in a notebook or on a spreadsheet, make a list of travel needs that you can revise and edit as needed in the days leading up to a trip. I’ve recently started using Google Docs, which allows me to access the list from my laptop, phone or iPad and make changes no matter where I am.
Here’s an example from a recent weekend trip:
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While packing, I cross of items as I put them in my suitcase, leaving anything that hasn’t been packed yet in red. Then I’ll double-check my list just before I leave in order to make sure I haven’t forgotten anything.
Mix and Match
The easiest way to pack light is to make sure all the items you bring can be mixed and matched to make different outfits. Stick to colors that pair well together and clothing that can be transformed from day to night. If it’s a longer trip, pack a travel-size box of laundry detergent and wash shirts, underwear, etc. in the bathtub at your hotel halfway through your stay. (Just make sure you leave enough time for the clothes to dry.)
This is where making a list can come in very handy, as you can see the exact items you need to create any outfit. Planning to bring a pair of shoes that will only match with one dress? Leave the shoes AND the dress behind and find another one that pairs with shoes you’re already bringing.
Determine Your Essentials
I’ve learned the hard way over the years that there are certain items I must always pack, whether I end up needing them or not. For example, no matter where I’m going or for how long, there will always be a swimsuit in my bag. It takes up barely any space and is worth having on hand in case of an unplanned beach day or an opportunity to enjoy the hotel pool and hot tub.
A recently discovered necessity for me is a pair of black leggings. I decided to leave them behind while packing for a trip to Europe last summer (it was going to be hot; I’d never need them), but, let me tell you, all I wanted during my 24-hour travel day back to Los Angeles was to be wearing some comfortable leggings with my shirt and hoodie. I even scoured Heathrow Airport’s international terminal hoping to find a store that might have them for sale. They did not, and black leggings will forevermore be on my “Always Pack” list.
The moral of the story: If it doesn’t take up too much room and you’ve had a desperate need for it on a past trip, go ahead and pack it.
Make Space
I’ve found a few helpful ways to consolidate my clothing in my suitcase. Packing cubes bundle folded items in a neat square and really keep things organized. The one I often use has one zippered side for clean clothes and another zippered side for dirty ones, which is super helpful.
When planning for two weeks in Europe, I picked up a few space bags in order to really consolidate my dresses, shirts and pants. I was concerned about not having a vacuum (the best way to de-air the bags) on hand when repacking to come home, but I found I was able to roll the bags and squeeze most of the air out before laying them flat in my suitcase. All in all, it worked pretty well and kept things mostly wrinkle-free, too.
Travel Size It
Toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo — it’s all available in small sizes and ready for travel, so stock up on any mini makeup, skincare and bath and body essentials you need. (I’m partial to Beautycounter’s Travel Body Collection.) My toiletry bag is always stocked with the necessary items; I even have a half-size hairbrush and umbrella that live in my suitcase. This is a great way to ensure you’ll always be prepared to bring your bag as a carry-on — just make sure you have any liquid items stored in a clear, quart-size bag.
I hope these tips help you feel more organized when preparing for your trip. I’d love to hear your packing suggestions, too — share them in the comments below!
Image may be NSFW.
Clik here to view.
Image may be NSFW.Clik here to view.
