Traveling Tips: What and How to Pack Efficiently

One of the most stressful parts about taking a trip is packing. What should you bring? Are you packing too much? Too lightly? We have all been there, and we feel your pain when it comes to this often frustrating task. If you are a bit overwhelmed with the packing process, check out these helpful travel tips detailing what and how to pack efficiently. 

 

WHAT TO PACK WHEN TRAVELING

Clothing

When determining what items to pack for an upcoming trip, SmarterTravel recommends considering the duration of your stay, weather conditions and if you plan on participating in any activities that require non-standard clothing or equipment. 

First, think about the duration of your stay. For a shorter trip (three to five days), consider packing the following items: one pair of undergarments and socks per day, one pair of pajamas, one or two dressier outfits, one or two activewear or athleisure outfits, one or two casual outfits and one or two pairs of shoes. If your vacation lasts longer, you should pack slightly more.

Additionally, bring any specific gear or clothing needed for activities during your trip. For example, if you plan on hiking, pack outdoor-specific items like hiking boots or shoes, a first aid kit, a backpack, appropriate clothing (think layers and moisture-wicking), a rain poncho and a reusable water bottle.

Finally, check the weather forecast before you pack. For warmer temperatures, bring along lightweight, breathable clothing and a hat to protect you from the sun. For colder weather, items like coats, boots and gloves are all must-haves. 

Toiletries and Medications

You certainly do not want to forget to include toiletries and medications when packing for a trip. Toiletries are items such as contact lenses, glasses, lip balm, a first-aid kit, deodorant, a toothbrush, sunscreen, makeup, hair care products, hand sanitizer and so forth. 

Miscellaneous Items

If you are not an avid traveler, there may be some essential travel items that you do not know about but should bring on your next trip. For example, a portable charger charges your smartphone anytime and anywhere, which makes it convenient to have while traveling. To learn about some other unique things to bring on your next trip, check out our blog, 7 Essential Travel Items.  

 

TIPS FOR PACKING EFFICIENTLY

Check out some tips on how to pack efficiently for your next trip below: 

• Make a packing list: If you are unsure what to pack, try making a list of clothing, toiletries and miscellaneous items. This ultimate packing list from SmarterTravel is a great starting point. Best of all, it is even customizable to your particular needs!  

• Pack by outfit: Rather than randomly choosing a handful of tops and bottoms that may not match or look right together, pack by outfit instead. This method will save you time, and it will help you avoid overpacking too. Furthermore, if you keep clothing neutral, it will allow you to mix and match or wear the pieces more than once. 

• Roll, do not fold clothing: To make the most of your luggage space, roll clothes rather than folding them; this practice also makes clothing less susceptible to creases. Good Housekeeping recommends laying tops facedown, folding the sleeves inward and rolling from the bottom upward. For pants, they suggest placing the legs together and turning from the waist downward.  

• Use packing cubes: It does not take long for a carefully packed suitcase to turn into a jumbled mess when traveling. A clever way to stay organized before and during your trip is to use packing cubes. Packing cubes are fabric bags of different sizes intended to keep clothing organized and make life easier in the process. You can find a variety of packing cube options on Amazon. 

• Place heavier items at the base of your suitcase: If you are packing your items in a suitcase, Good Housekeeping suggests placing heavier items (like shoes) at the wheeled end of the bag to keep your luggage stable and help other things from getting smashed when it is in an upright position.  

• Flying? Practice the TSA’s 3-1-1 rule for liquids and gels: If you are flying to your destination, it is imperative that you keep the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) 3-1-1 rule in mind if you are placing any liquids or gels in your carry-on bag. According to this rule, all liquid and gel products must be 3.4 ounces or less and fit into one quart-size bag.

• Keep toiletries pre-packed: The New York Times recommends keeping a separate toiletries bag packed at all times. Keep a small bag stocked with travel-size items like hair products, skin care products, deodorant, contact lens case and a toothbrush. This helps make the packing process quicker and ensures that you will not forget something important on your next trip!