Packing isn’t the most glamorous part of the jet-setting experience, for me, it’s actually the most stressful. Before a trip, I mentally begin to prepare weeks in advance. How many dresses should I pack, do I really need these sneakers, what hair products should I bring. It’s an entire production.
From one jetsetter to another, I’m sharing the best packing tips I’ve learned over the years to help you dodge the stress of packing for your next vacation. Follow these tried and tested tips and I assure you, you’ll arrive at your destination with everything you truly need.
Make A List – Keep track of all of the essential items that you need by creating a packing checklist. Not only will it keep you organized but it will ensure that you don’t leave anything home and I find that it significantly speeds up the entire process. I usually just use my notes app on my iPhone and create my lists but if you want, a handwritten list is just as effective!
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Get Yourself A Quality Suitcase – Have you ever owned a suitcase that had absolutely no pockets, or straps just an empty inside? If you’re a frequent jet-setter, please invest in a durable suitcase to house your valuables, as a good suitcase can make or break your trip. A good piece of luggage can help you to organize better due to features like interior compression, multiple compartments, pockets and laundry bags.
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Try On Your Outfits – I always try to pack in outfits and its a must that I try on my entire outfit to see if its a ‘lewk’ or not. While I may envision an outfit in my head, it may not necessarily translate all together while on my trip. To avoid looking a hot mess and having nothing to wear, try on the entire outfit, head to toe before packing it. This helps to avoid overpacking!
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Downsize Toiletries – Toiletries are a pain to pack, but you can’t leave home without them. I downsize all liquids into 3oz bottles or purchase travel sized products of everything, if available. After, I pack them into a clear toiletry bag or a ziplock plastic bag to ensure there’s no spillage in my suitcase. I try to pack my toiletries first because I always leave something at home!
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Roll, Don’t Fold – It’s scientifically proven, (just joking!) Rolling your clothing instead of folding is the ultimate travel packing hack! It helps to maximize the space in your luggage, helping you to fit more things easier and creates fewer wrinkles. I know most people have their preference, I do both from time to time.
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Bag Your Shoes – Use a shoe bag to compartmentalize your shoes and to protect your clothing. The last thing you want is the bottom of your shoe comingling with your undies or dirtying up your clean white tees.
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Repack – You will always overpack. There will always be too many shoes, more than enough hair products and ten outfits for a simple weekend trip. This packing hack has transformed how I pack because I’m a chronic over-packer. When I’ve completely packed, I go back in and take out the things that are unnecessary and repack my bag. Cheers to being 10 pounds lighter afterwards!
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What are some of your favourite travel packing tips? Share them with me!
