Going Somewhere: Packing Tips for Every Trip
Travel & Destination Corner
By Dr. Pamela Gurley
Whether you are a seasoned traveler and a newbie, there is always that one part of travel that always pose to be difficult…packing. Yes, I said it…packing is one of the most stressful parts of traveling. With so many things to think about - like what to wear, what to bring, and how much you can fit in your suitcase and it not over the weight limit - it's easy for packing anxiety to set in. Hell, I am overwhelmed just thinking about it right now and I have two weeks before my next trip.
Anyhow, as someone who is seasoned (and global) traveler, I have been able to go from paying for an overweight large suitcase to fitting everything I need in a small or medium carry on. Yes, it is possible!
Here are two quick tips to help you lessen your packing stress and get you travel ready:
Pack Essentials
consider essentials everything you need for what you have planned (beach, lounge, bar, etc.), and it also includes some (not all) toiletries, accessories, and perfume/cologne. To pack a little lighter and save space, stop buying and packing essentials you can get at hotels (soap, shower caps, lotion, razors, etc.). Seriously, how many of you bring yours and then still take the ones from the hotel they provide “for emergencies?” There is never an emergency or a need. Just save space, time, and money and pack what you know you cannot get at a hotel.
Pack Based on Activities
Are you hiking? Are you sightseeing? Are you going to the beach? All of those? I always consider day wear and evening wear each day of my trips. Often during the day, comfortable sightseeing clothing, lounging wear, or beach/pool wear is a preference. This way I have one “day” outfit for each day of my trip and often this can be interchangeable with other things (like taking jean shorts or jean pants that you can wear more than one day). For evening selections, I decide how many nights I plan to go out and pack accordingly by those night (and not taking three or four extra outfits “just in case” I don’t like the way it looks). Try everything on before packing it.
Oh, and when it comes to shoes. Less is more. Take shoes that will match most of your outfits. Again, the try on will go far in this category.
These two simple tips will go a long way when it comes to travel. Why take a lot of extra for no reason and then kick yourself for not leaving it behind since its waste space. Save the space for souvenirs or other things purchased while on vacation.
Happy traveling!
