Raise your hand if you wait until the last minute to pack before a trip. Accurate?
You've probably already figured out that this isn't the case for me. Haha! But I totally get the stress of having to pack your most prized possessions into a small bag. It can be very daunting, especially when you're not sure what activities you will be doing while traveling. There's often unexpected changes in weather as well. If you get overwhelmed just thinking about packing for a family vacation, then you're in the right place. Today, I'm sharing 7 tips to help you stress less when packing for your next vacation.
1. Plan
I am the girl who makes all the lists. Whether or not I actually check off these lists is another story entirely. Lol! However, I really love making lists. It's like a brain dump for me. I can get everything out of my brain and onto a piece of paper. This helps me think more clearly about what I need to do. I can allow myself to relax. I know I won't forget something important, because it's on a piece of paper. It doesn't have to be a detailed plan. Just jot down some items you want to be sure to take with you. Before you leave for your trip, make sure all items have been checked off the list. I like to make a separate list for all of the items I need to grab on the day I am leaving that aren't convenient to pack beforehand. (Examples: Phone Charger, Phone, Toothbrush, etc.)
*BONUS*
Whether list-making isn't your forte or you love making lists as much as me, I have included a free packing list printable and a sample list of things I usually pack for trips. You can access the FREE PRINTABLES at the end of this page or on the PRINTABLES SECTION of my website. I also included a link, so you can personalize the list to fit your needs. You will need to create a Canva account. It's FREE and AMAZING!!!
2. Focus on Multiuse Items
When packing for a trip, multiuse items are where it's at. Choose outfits you can mix and match. Pack shoes that will go with all the outfits. If you have a minimal wardrobe, this should be easy. Not sure how to create a minimal wardrobe? Click here for a walkthrough of how I created my own simple wardrobe. Bringing items that can be used for multiple purposes can also help you be more intentional with what you bring. This is especially useful if you're limited on the amount of space you have available when traveling. I like to bring one hairbrush that I share with my daughters. I also think outside the box for multiple uses for each item. For example, I can use a light rain jacket to protect me from rain, keep me warm in a cold restaurant, or as a pillow while riding in the car.
3. Keep it Small
There's really no need to bring a 32 oz. bottle of body wash for a 5 day trip. It's not necessary or efficient. You can purchase small bottles of personal care items or create your own using small bottles. You also don't need your entire makeup collection for a short trip. Pack one of each type of makeup item - one eyeshadow palette, one foundation, one mascara, one eyeliner, etc. If you have minimized your makeup collection, this will also make it easier. Stay tuned for tips on how I simplified my own collection of makeup and personal care items. While I allow my kids to bring a limited number of toys on trips, they are asked to keep items small. Sorry...no giant teddy bears allowed.
4. Be realistic
it's so important to be realistic about what you choose to bring on a trip. If you're going to the beach for one week, you don't need 5 pairs of shoes and 12 outfits. It's just not necessary. Also keep in mind that you can easily purchase many personal care items or clothing items if needed while on your trip. While unnecessary spending isn't ideal, it is an option if needed. Personally, I'd prefer to spend a few dollars buying something i need while traveling than to spend the whole trip feeling overpacked and overstressed.
5. Empty Space
Don't forget to leave some empty space in your suitcase. After all, you'll probably want to bring home some new clothes or a souvenir. It's always good to have the extra space just in case. Be especially aware of this if you're traveling by plane. You will have limited space for your luggage, and you don't want to pay extra for heavy baggage or extra bags.
6. Roll Clothing
My mom taught me this hack when I was younger. rolling your clothing items helps keep them neat and compact in your suitcase. It also prevents them from getting wrinkled! Win-Win! I really don't believe in ironing. Lol. The clothes also look super cute when they're rolled this way. When you open your suitcase, you can see every item immediately. You don't need to search through everything to find the perfect outfit. Everything is in plain sight.
7. Organize
Never underestimate the power of organizing. Often, I need to pull something out of my suitcase on the way to our destination. I don't want to dig through piles to stuff to find one small item. Placing like items together in an organized fashion is really helpful. It saves time, conserves energy, and reduces stress. It is so freeing to know exactly where items are located and be able to grab anything you need at a moments notice. Even if you're pressed for time, try to organize as much as you can. Put things in locations you will easily remember. After all, a moment spent organizing is never wasted.
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CLICK HERE to PERSONALIZE it before YOU PRINT!
* For 3 Bonus Tips, be sure to watch my YouTube Video!
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