Packing for a long trip is about getting your essentials together, not filling up a suitcase with your whole wardrobe. Too many pieces of baggage will weigh you down, and it can be expensive if you’re traveling by plane. Fortunately, you can avoid the massive baggage. By packing more efficiently, downsizing your luggage, and being selective with your clothes, you can travel light!
Here are seven travel packing tips and tricks!
1. Write out your trip itinerary before you start packing.
Make an itinerary for your trip—attractions you’ll visit, events you’ll attend, restaurants you’ll eat at— and you can also think about what you might do in your free time. If you have a plan, it will tell you exactly what clothes you should pack and other necessities to bring so you’re not packing for the unknown. You don’t have to guess what outfits you should pack for out-of-the-blue events.
2. Check the weather.
If you’re going to a place where it’s all warm and sunshine every day, you don’t need to pack a jacket or a heavy sweater. If you’re worried about the fickle weather, you can always buy or borrow something at your destination.
If it’s cold and rainy, you can pack an unopened rain poncho instead of a large rain jacket. It will take up less space in your travel light luggage. You can also pack clothes you can layer up with instead of winter coat to maximize space in your bag.
3. Make a list of what you need to pack.
Take time to make a list of what you need to pack. You can include any clothes, shoes, toiletries, or other items you’ll need on your trip. You should avoid drifting off from your list unless it’s something essential that you forgot to include. This list will help your confidence and organization, so you don’t have to overpack unnecessary stuff out of fear of being unprepared.
4. Pack using small luggage.
With small suitcases or bags, it will force you to be efficient during the packing process. When you’re shopping or looking for luggage, look for a size that would hold everything you need, and then choose a size down. This method will help you be more selective about what to bring when it comes time to pack your bag.
Don’t pack your stuff in a massive, hard side suitcase unless you’re bringing expensive electronics or fragile items on your trip. You can use a bag with soft, thin sides if you’re only packing clothes, shoes, and toiletries. Your suitcase will feel lighter, and it will be easier to carry.
5. Pack clothes and shoes that go well together.
When it comes to choosing clothes, try to pack neutral shades like brown, black, cream, white, and gray. It will allow you to mix and match your clothes, so you don’t have to pack as many outfits.
For men, basic button-up shirts in neutral shades are a versatile item that will go well with anything. And for women, a simple black dress that you can dress up or down depending on the occasion. A blazer is also an excellent choice that you can wear casually or in a more formal setting.
With shoes, avoid packing a different pair for every day or event during your trip. They can’t be folded or rolled up in your bag to save space. Aim for two pairs if possible; a casual pair for walking and then something more delicate for when you’re in a more formal event.
For example, if you’re going to the beach, pack flip flops or sandals instead of sneakers. They take up half the space, and your feet will be more comfortable in the heat.
6. Limit the toiletries you bring.
With toiletries, you can use the shampoo, conditioner, and soap at your hotel instead of bringing your own. When you get to your destination, you can purchase your sunscreen, toothpaste, and other toiletries rather than carrying them with you.
Or if you want to bring your toiletries, look for travel-size versions of them online or in your local drug store. If you can’t find a travel-size option, you can buy a small, refillable travel bottle and fill it with the product you want to take with you.
7. Enjoy your trip and be happy
Enjoy your trip and have a blast! If it falls, pick it up. Do not stress out if things didn't go according to plan. If you can function despite fallbacks, then move forward. You can delay your trip, but you should never stop. Make the best out of it.
Don’t forget to take pictures! Seize the moment by taking pictures. It will make your trip more fun when after all that craziness; you got something to review the fantastic times. Capture your memories through photos!
To enjoy your trip even more, why don’t you hire a professional house cleaning service while you’re out of the country. They can make your sweet abode looking fresh and welcoming! This can help you relax after a long trip with your friends or family!
