When traveling for a big trip, I always find that packing can be a bit of a hassle. It's the struggle of "what exactly do I need?, and "what if I don't bring this?" - questions we've all asked ourselves at one point or another. Whether you're getting ready for a cozy wintry trip to the mountains or a sunny, tropical vacation in the Caribbean, it's always best to ensure your packed with the right goods. Organization and minimalism is key here, and packing should be one less thing to worry about when you're planning your next vacay. Below I've created my list of helpful packing tips for essential and easy travel, so your dream vacation can be relaxing as ever.
Invest in a Hard Shelled Suitcase
Get rid of those old school soft suitcases that always seem to be flimsy and unreliable. You'll find that hard shelled luggage brands provide more durable strength and sturdiness when it comes to travel. With many positive reviews, and several owners who swear by them, these types of suitcases hold true to their capabilities. You're able to fit twice as many items in these as well, due to the expanded zipper which stretches to produce additional size range.
2. For Your Carry-On, Choose a Backpack.
As a former tote bag connoisseur, these types were always my go-to travel bag, until after continuous rips and tears undoubtedly forced me into looking at an alternative option for compact travel. I found myself talking away multiple bags and wasting money so I had to invest in another source. A backpack provides a mich sturdier and dependable storage space, and is the perfect carry-on size for placing inside overhead bins on the flight. Not to mention the use of several pockets to take advantage of for smaller, lightweight items.
3. Roll Your Clothes!
I can thank my mother for introducing me to this brilliant idea - instead of folding your clothes, roll them into a cylinder shape to save on maximum storage space inside your bag. This neat cylindrical style helps clothes lay against eachother in a tight, compact way, allowing more space to stack without the bulking that comes from folding.
4. Invest in Travel Sized or Smaller Items.
It's no secret that TSA restrictions during the security check are more intense than ever before. With safety regulations and strict measures in place in airports all around the globe, it's important to ensure you're following the rules before stepping onto the plane. Check the size requirements for your specific flight ahead of time and head to your local drugstore to stock up on size approved items for your suitcase. Target beauty section is my go-to for all of my pre-travel purchases!
5. Don't Forget Your Charger
We all understand that our phone is our immediate lifeline to the outside world, so don't make the mistake of packing your charger inside your checked bag, which goes underneath the plane, unavailable for your access. With no way of reaching your charger until you land, this could insinuate stress from a dead phone during the flight. Instead, stick your phone charger into your carry-on bag. This way you're able to make use of optimal charge while sitting at the terminal or departure flight gate.
6. Stick to the Rule of 3
Whether you're traveling to the snowcapped mountains of Canada, or heading down south to soak up sone sun in the Bahamas, it's important to stick to the rule of 3: only pack three of each set of outfits you're planning to bring. For example, three shirts, three shorts, three dresses, three bathing suits, etc. Don't forget three pairs of shoes! This is to ensure your suitcase is not over filled with unnecessary items or bulk.
7. Always Bring a Jacket
I've come to realize that in all of my travels, the one thing I've forgotten most in my past is a jacket. It's so simple though, right? Not always, especially when you're traveling to the tropics or somewhere with lots of palm trees and sunshine. The afternoons might be hot, but the nights are typically cool and breezy. This is when the air can become windy or on the colder side, so it's important to stick a lightweight jacket or sweater in your suitcase in case the temperature drops.
8. Keep a Pair of Undergarments and Toothpaste in Your Carry-On
Ensure you're always prepared for those annoying moments during a possible delayed flight or unfortunate airline loss of baggage. Stash a pair of cute undergarments and a small bottle of toothpaste inside your carry-on when you're in need of a quick change or a fresh, minty mouth.
9. Tag Your Suitcase With Some Fun Flare
We've all had the same experience- walking to airport baggage claim, standing at the revolving luggage belt, endlessly waiting for your suitcase in a sea of other suitcases that look exactly like yours. Feeling a sense of urgency and slight panic as more bags proceed to be taken off the belt, and you're still standing there, searching up and down for yours but having zero luck. End the struggle by placing a bright bow or tie around your suitcase handle- aim for a vibrant color or fun pattern so you're bag I can be easily spotted from the rest. No more hassle again!
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