It’s almost time for your vacation, but there’s one little thing standing between you and your destination.
Packing.
While not the most fun part of a trip, it can also be one of the most important. Under-pack and you risk not having something you really need – and then spending vacation souvenir money on an overpriced item that you could have brought from home for free. Over-pack and you could end up paying more for luggage fees on your plane – and end up not using half the stuff you brought.
The goal here is to bring what you need and leave behind what you don’t. Here are a few tips to help you do just that.
General Packing Advice
- Make a List and Check it Twice Before you start tossing items into your suitcase, create a packing list. It’s the best way to ensure you don’t forget essentials and avoid overpacking.
- Roll, Don’t Fold Rolling your clothes saves space and minimizes wrinkles. Trust me, it’s a game-changer! (Bonus Pro Tip: Roll AND use packing cubes to save the most space possible.)
- Layer Up Consider layers to help use items for multiple outfits and stick to one or two related colors to easily mix and match. This will help you pack more efficiently and avoid bringing items you won’t wear.
Avoid Common Packing Mistakes
- Overpacking It’s tempting to bring everything “just in case,” but stick to your list and trust it.
- Ignoring the Weather Forecast Always check the weather for your destination. You don’t want to be stuck in a tropical rainstorm without an umbrella – or in Ireland wishing you had a warmer jacket.
- Forgetting Essential Documents Make sure your passport, travel insurance, and any necessary visas are packed – IN YOUR CARRY-ON ONLY – and easily accessible.
- Overlooking Souvenirs Bring a foldable backpack in your checked or carry-on bags, to bring home your travel treasures. Plus, you’ll have it as a day bag for any time you need to carry “stuff” with you as you travel.
Tips for Packing Light: Carry-On Only
- Choose the Right Bag Invest in a good quality carry-on that meets airline size requirements. (Bonus Pro Tip: If you’re traveling to Europe, be sure to check the maximum carry-on bag size, as it may be smaller than what you’re used to on American flights.)
- Minimize Toiletries Use travel-sized bottles or purchase toiletries at your destination. (Bonus Pro Tip: See if your hotel provides basic toiletries and plan to use them if possible.)
- Multi-Purpose Items Pack items that can serve multiple purposes, like a sarong that can be used as a beach cover-up, scarf, or blanket.
- Wear Your Bulkiest Items If you’re bringing boots or a heavy jacket, wear them during your flight to save space in your bag.
- Limit Shoes Try to stick to two pairs of shoes: one casual and one dressy. Make sure if you will be doing a lot of walking, that your shoes are comfortable and broken in. This is NOT the time for new shoes!
Must-Have Items for Different Types of Trips – Different destinations may have some specific items you’ll want to think about packing.
- Cruises
- Formal Wear: Many cruises have formal nights. If yours will, be sure to bring a nice dress or suit.
- Swimwear: You’ll likely spend a lot of time by the pool or beach, so bring enough or plan on washing.
- Comfortable Shoes: For shore excursions and exploring the ship.
- European Travel
- Layered Clothing: Europe’s weather can be unpredictable. Layers help you stay comfortable.
- Comfortable Walking Shoes: Cobblestone streets are charming but tough on the feet – avoid those cute stilettos or platform sandals!
- Universal Adapter: Don’t get caught without power for your gadgets. Different countries have different adaptor and converter requirements. Make sure you have the correct one for your destination(s)!
- Caribbean Getaways
- Sun Protection: The sun in the tropics is strong! Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are musts.
- Light, Breathable Clothing: Think cotton and linen to keep cool – and even better if you stick to light colors as they reflect sun better than dark colors do.
- Bug Spray: Those tropical evenings can bring out the bugs so plan ahead!
Packing doesn’t have to be a nightmare. With these tips, you’ll be ready to jet off to your dream destination without the stress. And remember, the journey is just as important as the destination. Happy travels!
Learn how the services of an experienced travel agent can make planning your vacation simple and STRESS FREE!
