What should I pack in my suitcase? It’s an age old question that probably every traveler has asked at some point in their travel experiences. And unless you’re a seasoned traveler, the dilemma of figuring out what to pack most likely comes up every time you’re ready to go somewhere. But don’t worry, here are some tips for the rest of us to help get those suitcases ready to go (without having to sit on them to get them zipped).
Make a List… Then Check it Twice
You’ll be less likely to forget something if you make a list of the things you’ll need for your trip. Are you traveling for a business meeting? You don’t want to wake up the morning of and realize you forgot to pack a dressy shirt. Making a list will also help you realize the things you really need versus the things you think you may need. By prioritizing items you need to pack, you’ll be less likely to just throw in a bunch of extras stuff that will only clutter your suitcase anyway.
Pick a Consistent Color Scheme
When your travel wardrobe consist of matching items, that means you can easily mix and match to make different outfits without having to pack your entire closet. This will also save you from having to pack matching belts, shoes, and accessories for every outfit too. So go with a color scheme when packing. It will also save you the hassle of trying to figure out what shirt you can put with what pants when you get to your destination if everything you’ve packed goes together.
Leave Your Shoe Collection Behind
Not only do shoes take up a lot of room in your suitcase, but they can also add extra weight. And you definitely don’t want to get to the airport to learn you have to pay extra for your overweight luggage. Typically, a pair of sneakers and flip-flops will do the trick if you’re going on vacation. Wear the sneakers to the airport and pack the flip-flops. If you’re going to need dressy shoes, stick with only one pair that will match all of your outfits.
Leave out the Toiletries
Most hotels provide you with the basics of shampoo, conditioner, and soap. Many even offer accessories for your personal use like hair dryers, irons, and hangers. Keep those toiletries out of your suitcase. Not only will they added unnecessary weight to your luggage, but you run the risk of having something spill all over your clothes too.
Pack a Bit of Detergent
Who says you can’t take a quick 10 minutes to wash your socks and underwear…and even fast drying shirts in your hotel room? Not only does that mean you can pack less, but you’ll also have less laundry to do when you return from your trip. Pack a little dry detergent in your suitcase. It definitely will take up a lot less space than trying to cram extra shirts and underwear into your luggage!
