By So you just got over the stress of planning a trip, but now you have to pack. Don’t let stress take over again! Here are some simple tips to make packing a little easier.
1. Research your Airline
First and foremost, be familiar with your airline’s policies. If you get a free checked bag, you’ve hit a goldmine. Otherwise, pay up like the rest of us! This is something you may want to research even before purchasing your ticket since the price of carryons and suitcases can inflate your initial flight price. Why spend money on checking a bag when you can buy that cute top you’ve been eyeing?
2. Make a List
Seriously, make that list! If you have an itinerary for your trip, it helps to make a list according to each day. If you don’t have an itinerary, then pack in regards to how many days your stay will be. This can help reduce over packing and paranoia that you may have forgotten something. Don’t forget to cross items off as you pack them up, otherwise, you may pack it twice. You know, since you own multiples of almost everything.
3. Pack Outside Your Suitcase
If you’re not into making lists, lay out what you would like to pack outside of your suitcase before packing it up properly. This will let you get a quick visual of everything you’re taking with you. Also, you’ll be able to envision your outfits better this way. This is especially helpful if you use my next tip below.
4. Pack 3 Tops for Every Bottom
For every 1 bottom you pack, you should have 3 tops to go with it. Jeans, skirts, pants, and shorts can be reworn more easily as they often are more basic. There is no reason to bring 3 blue skinny jeans on your trip- trust me. Add more interest to your outfits with your tops, and don’t be afraid to mix and match.
5. Secure Beauty Products
Landing after a long flight only to discover one of your favorite beauty products is an absolute nightmare. For perfume bottles, I recommend putting the bottle inside a pair of socks. This provides a cushion for the bottle and also packs a pair of socks that you would have needed anyway. I even stuff socks inside of my makeup bag to reduce the movement of my products. I just can’t handle another shattered bronzer… can you?
6. Leave No Empty Spaces
Packing boots or purses? These items take up the most space in a suitcase, so you should never pack them as they are. Stuff them with jewelry, underwear, or, you guessed it, more socks. This not only is a good use of space, it also saves your shoes and handbags from collapsing and deforming over a long flight.
Have more tips? Feel free to share with a comment.
Bon voyage!
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Image by Johanna via Etsy