Questions I always get asked… what are our best packing tips? How many shoes do you take when you travel? How on earth do you only travel with a carry-on? What toiletries do I really need? What do you always take with you when you travel? Everyone has their own tricks. And for me and my travels, I have it down to a science now (which is perfect considering I’m a very, very last-minute packer!). Here are some of my best pack like a pro packing tips.
1. Start With a List
I admittedly don’t do this anymore, but for anyone who ever asks me how they can go from packing a giant suitcase to doing just a carry-on, I say you need to make a list. For your next trip, pack as you normally would, but make a checklist of everything (And I mean everything!) you pack. Then as you wear your items on your vacation, check off that list. Take note of all the things you didn’t actually use. Next time, don’t pack those things! Once I did this, I easily cut my suitcase by half.
2. Make an Itinerary
Knowing what you’re doing everyday will help you bring only the things you really need. Plan your outfits around your activities.
3. Limit Your Shoes
This is one of the biggest packing tips I have. Before you freak out, seriously consider what shoes you actually need. I have a rule of three shoes, depending on what type of trip I’m on those could be runners, sandals, flats, boots, heels. Any combination based on my activities, but just one of each! Wear your biggest shoes on the plane to save space in your suitcase.
4. Hotel Toiletries Are Your Best Friends
You don’t need to bring your entire beauty routine with you in full size. There are loads of great mini toiletries bottles you can use to have your fave products on hand (my favourites are these MUJI bottles). But don’t balk at what the hotel has. For instance I always bring my own conditioner, but I’m ok using a hotel shampoo. You’ll start to figure out what you can’t do without and what you can adjust on.
5. Roll…. Tightly!
I’m a big believer in rolling my clothes to get the most space in my suitcase. I iron my clothes first, lay them on a hard, flat surface and roll as tightly as possible.
6. Pack Heavy Items First
Put bulkier/bigger/heavy item on the bottom of your suitcase. Think denim, sweaters, etc. Then squeeze your thinner, lightweight items in around the bigger ones.
7. Make Use of Hotel Irons/Laundry
Rolling tightly means you will likely have wrinkles. So make sure your hotel has an iron to keep your look crisp and polished. But don’t be afraid to have your clothes laundered at the hotel. It may seem expensive, but in comparison to paying for checked bags or overweight fees, it’s not that expensive and it means you can get multiple uses out of items. Plus, I always think they do a much better ob at cleaning and Ironing my clothes than I can!
8. Keep It Organized
Keep chords, tech items, adapters, etc. in one zippered case. You’ll be amazed at how much space it saves!
9. Think Light Layers
You’ll be able to pack more options if you think in light layers. And more items means versatility and more outfits on your trip! Layer light knits, button up shirt, silky blouses and tank tops with pants, denim, dresses and skirts for a new outfit.
10. Scarves
I am never without a scarf on a trip, no matter the destination. A lightweight scarf keeps me warm and cozy on chilly planes, it’s the perfect wrap for a cool night out, and can be a casual accessory during the day.
More From Travel & Style
5 Reasons to Carry-On Your Luggage
5 Tips for First Time Cruisers
Who and How Much to Tip at Hotels
