It can seem inevitable that you will end up packing too much or forgetting an essential item when packing for a vacation.If you take a little time to create a thoughtful plan and learn a few packing tips like rolling your clothes instead of folding them, you can turn packing into a streamlined activity that helps you enjoy your vacation with peace of mind.
Step 1: You should check the weather before packing.
If you don't travel for a few weeks or months, you can check the average highs and lows to help you plan for your wardrobe needs.Do you need to invest in a jacket if you are traveling somewhere warm?Do you live somewhere cool and travel to a hot destination?You might need to purchase shorts or sandals to be comfortable.
Step 2: You should establish your activities.
Will you go to the beach, the town, or the museums?If you have an idea of what each day will look like, you can plan what you will pack.If you are going to stay at a remote cabin for a week, you probably don't need to bring a dressy outfit.Make a list of all the things you are going to do and write down what you need.It's important to make a list for each person you're packing for so you don't forget.
Step 3: It's a good idea to coordinate your wardrobe.
Pack clothes that you can wear with the rest of your wardrobe.It's a good idea to put your clothes on on your bed.If you don't bring a top or shoes with you, you will not wear your favorite skirt, so leave it behind.If you bring ties or dress shoes, make sure they coordinate with your shirts and pants.If you pack a jacket or blazer, make sure it matches the shirts you bring.When packing accessories, be aware.Pick colors and designs that work with your outfits.Don't forget to think about the kind of footwear you need.Sturdy boots are required for hiking.You will want flip-flops for the beach.Take dress shoes into account if you need them for a fancy event.
Step 4: You should bring the necessary items for your trip.
There are a number of items to remember, including: lip balm, feminine hygiene products, and contact lens case.In travel-sized containers, try to get as many items as you can.You can buy your own travel-sized containers and fill them yourself, or you can go to a local drugstore and get a mini version.
Step 5: To last the week, pack enough clothes.
If you are going to attend a nice restaurant or event, you will want to bring at least 2 pairs of shorts or pants, 3-4 tops, a light jacket, and a formal outfit.Pack a few swimsuits/trunks if you are going to the beach.All clothing items can be worn with each other in any combination.
Step 6: Bring clothes to sleep in.
For the week, bring 1-2 sleep outfits.If you get cold at night, you may want to wear a light sweater.If you want to save space, you can plan on wearing the same shirt every day and night.
Step 7: Carefully plan your shoes.
You should bring a pair of shoes for walking.Bring a pair of dress shoes or flats with you if you are going out.Bring 1 pair of sandals for the beach.The lighter your bag is, the less shoes you bring.Pack shoes for any special activities, like mountain climbing or white water rafting.When traveling to save room in your luggage, wear your bulkiest shoes.
Step 8: Take your undergarments with you.
If you need a backless bra for a dress, bring 4-5 pairs of underwear, 4-5 socks, 3-4 undershirts/bras, and any specialty items you might need.If you don't have a lot of packing space, bring less undergarments and wash your dirty clothes in the sink where you are staying.You can use the washing and drying machines in some accommodations.
Step 9: Pick your accessories and coordinate with your outfits.
You may want to have sunglasses, scarves, hats, jewelry, ties, and belts.If packing jewelry, be careful not to bring anything that is very valuable if it is lost or stolen.It's fun to buy new accessories when you travel.To save space, leave those items at home if you want to do this.
Step 10: Bring your electronics with you.
There are items to remember, such as a cell phone charge, a video/MP3 player, earphones, and a camera.For a 5 day trip, you might not need all of these items, so think about what you need to take with you.
Step 11: The week before your trip, refill any medications you need.
This will help make sure you don't run out of stuff.Bring birth control pills with you if you take them.If there is an emergency on your trip, you should bring a list of your medications with you.
Step 12: For essential items, pack travel-sized toiletries.
Most of the time, you should be able to get the items you need at your destination, either from the hotel or the drugstore.Transfer your personal care items from home to travel-sized containers so you don't have to buy anything when you arrive.If you are flying with a carry on bag, make sure to check the regulations for liquids.
Step 13: Put everything you want to pack in a single place.
For a 5 day vacation, you should be able to pack everything in a single bag or suitcase.Staying organized when you put things in your bag is helped by getting everything into the same space.If you are packing for more than one person, keep your luggage and clothes separated so you don't misplace anything.
Step 14: You can save space by rolling your clothes.
Rolling clothes help prevent wrinkling and give you more space in your luggage.The technique is to lay the item of clothing flat and fold the bottom 2 inches of it inside out.Roll the item tightly until you reach the pocket.To secure it, fold one side of the pocket over the roll.You can put socks and underwear inside of shoes to save space.Heavy items should be put at the bottom of your bag.They won't be able to wrinkling or damaging your clothes.
Step 15: Books and magazines can be downloaded to save space.
If you have an iPad or similar device, you can download books and magazines to read without taking up a lot of luggage space.If you already subscribe to a magazine, you can get electronic access for free.If you're going to bring a physical book with you, take one that you wouldn't mind leaving behind.This will save you some room on the way back.
Step 16: If you are flying, keep a small bag of essential items with you.
When you get on the plane, this will save you time and energy.You should keep a small bag in your carry on that holds what you want for your flight.When you get on the plane, you can put the smaller bag in the overhead bin.It's a good idea to have a small bag with essential items like your phone, a book, and snacks nearby, even if you're not driving.It's helpful to have some activities planned to keep the kids entertained.You can find travel-sized versions of board games in sticker books.