I only recently started traveling more frequently within the past few years. The most difficult part of traveling is packing. Not only is it the most time consuming, but it’s a commitment to what you will have available to you on your trip.
I’m generally an over-packer. However, each trip that I take I make improvements on only packing what’s necessary. It’s a process that I’m sure that I will only continue to improve as I travel more often.
How you pack, really determines where you’re going and how long your stay. So a quick trip to LA in the summer will be different from two weeks in New York during the winter. Your clothes, accessories, and travel items will be drastically different. However, I wanted to share a few quick tips that will help you pack regardless of where and how long you’re going.
Select a Single Color Theme
When you select a single color theme, you can pack less with still allowing for multiple different outfit combinations. For example, if you choose a black color theme, then you only need to pack black shoes. Maybe a pair of booties and a pair of heels. Instead of packing brown booties and black booties and black heels and well you get the idea.
The concept is similar to how one would plan out a capsule wardrobe. You want to pick pieces that can interchange with each other, so
Check the Weather
You should always check the weather for your destination. By knowing if it will be hot, cold, or harsh weather conditions, you will be able to plan your outfits better. You will also be more prepared for your trip.
This tip is especially helpful if you’ve never been to where you’re traveling. When I went to New York last year, I had no idea what to pack. Do I need a jacket or will it be too hot? After reviewing the weather, I found out it was going to rain. So I brought a light jacket and a little umbrella.
Plan Your Outfits
Planning your outfits is extremely important. Why? Well, if you do not plan your outfits, then you are in serious danger of over-packing. You will end up throwing your favorite pieces in your suitcase without really putting together what you will actually be wearing.
You also want to plan your outfits based on the activities that you will be participating in during your trip. When I went to Kauai this past November, we planned on taking several hikes. So naturally, I made sure that I had shoes and clothing that were hiking appropriate.
Make a Packing List
I’m a list maker, most likely due to having a short memory, but it’s extremely useful when packing. Creating a packing list can assist in multiple ways. First, it allows you to see what you need for your trip. Do you have everything that’s on the list or do you need to purchase something?
The second benefit is a list will also give you peace of mind. You know that feeling that you get mid-trip forgot something? We all get it, but making a list allows you to check off each item on your list that goes into your bag. Now if you forgot to put the item on your list, that’s a different story.
Get Travel Size Toiletries
I never really understood why getting travel size toiletries was so important until recently. For starters, if you’re only taking a carry-on, then you are required to have travel sizes. Security (TSA) will not allow you to take full-size bottles on the plane (I believe the max is 3.4 ounces). Your items will get tossed. Also, make sure they are all in a clear plastic bag.
Another reason for having travel size accessories is to create more room in your bag. I recently bought luggage for my trip to Hawaii but bought a size too small. I had to make every inch in that bag count. Trust me; nothing is worse than an overly packed suitcase. Especially when the more your suitcase weighs could potentially lead to higher costs from the airlines.
In about two weeks, I will be heading to Vancouver, BC and then to Whistler for a snowboarding trip. This trip is my first to Canada, so I’m extremely excited. I’ve also never packed snow gear for air travel so needless to say this trip will be interesting. I will be following those four tips above and most likely learn more as I travel. Do you have any travel tips?
Travel Accessories
This article is not sponsored by any of the brands mentioned above. However, some of the links may contain affiliate links which may generate revenue for the site when clicked, or when a purchase occurs. The information in this post is my thoughts and preferences.
Photos by Anthea Marette Photography
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