Preparing for a trip may be exciting, but packing can get pretty stressful. Give yourself a few days to follow these three steps, and you’ll be traveling like a tidying pro!
PLAN IT ON PAPER
List all the activities you’ll be doing, then list the clothing and accessories required. Are you hanging out at a beach? Attending a formal event? Climbing a mountain? Don’t forget to include toiletries and makeup specific to the event, like waterproof sunscreen or your favorite knock-’em-dead lipstick.
LAY IT OUT, EDIT IT DOWN
Gather all the items on your list, then spread them on a bed or table. Now, try to reduce the number of items if you can, keeping the following in mind:
- Stick with a basic color scheme to create coordinating outfits.
- Favor fabrics that won’t wrinkle.
- Avoid the “What if I need it?” pitfall.
- Assume you can do laundry (unless you know you truly can’t).
- Keep pairs of shoes to a minimum. One casual, one comfortable and one dressy usually suffices.
- Transform outfits into several great looks using different accessories.
PACK IT LIKE A PRO
Imagine your suitcase is a drawer, and your goal is to make that drawer totally user-friendly. These guidelines will help:
- Fold clothes that hold their shape into small rectangles, and pack them upright. (Search the internet for “file folding clothes” to see how.)
- Roll fabrics that wrinkle or are delicate.
- Use packing cubes to keep clothing categories organized.
- Wrap shoes individually to protect clothing from any dirt.
- Use the space inside shoes for socks, jewelry, glasses, chargers, etc.
- Bring an extra zippered bag for laundry.
- Pack only the toiletries you absolutely need, in only the amounts you will use.
- If flying, know the TSA 3-1-1 rule, and keep that airtight bag easily accessible.
Pro tip: Take photos of what you pack and how you pack it. This makes repacking so much easier, and you’ll be less likely to leave something behind.
It’s said that travel isn’t about what you take with you; it’s about the memories you bring home. However, there’s no denying that a well-organized suitcase will add joy to your journey. Happy travels!
Heather Young, of Tidy and Calm LLC, is a professional home organizer, certified in the KonMari Method® popularized by Marie Kondo. Reach her at www.tidyandcalm.com.