The season of adventure is right around the corner!
Whether you’re headed somewhere new and exotic or you’re revisiting a favorite destination this summer, packing is something that always poses a challenge. After all, it’s hard to squeeze your life into just a few bags!
There are a lot of factors you’ll need to consider when packing: the length of your trip, the climate of your destination, the activities you have planned, and the actual luggage you’re working with. If you start without a plan or strategy, you’re at risk for over or under packing, both of which can put a damper on your vacation.
To make sure you bring everything you need and nothing more, we’re sharing our top vacation packing tips below. Bon voyage!
Make A List
Before you even begin packing, make a list of travel essentials to ensure you don’t forget anything. Trust us, you’ll be very glad you didn’t just eyeball it when you arrive at your destination with nothing missing.
Pack By Outfit
The easiest way to wear everything that you pack is to choose your outfits beforehand. You don’t want to lug around unnecessary items and waste space with clothes that you won’t actually wear.
This method doesn’t necessarily mean packing completely different garments for every day of your trip. Imagine how many bags you’d need if you’re going for a 3 week vacation! You can — and should — stick to versatile pieces that can easily be mixed and matched together.
A lot of travel experts are swearing by the 5-4-3-2-1 method, which means packing:
- 5 tops
- 4 bottoms
- 3 accessories (hat/bag/belt/etc)
- 2 pairs of shoes
- 1 swimsuit
Of course, you’re welcome to adjust quantities based on your own wardrobe and needs. If you’re going to a destination where you won’t need a swimsuit, you can swap that out for a dress or something else you’d rather bring. Or if you’re not much of an accessory person, you can sub in an extra garment. The point of this method is to streamline your travel wardrobe as much as possible by maximizing versatility and only taking what you need.
Choose A Color Palette
How can you make sure that everything you pack pairs well together? Stick to one simple color palette! Find 3-4 complementary colors in your wardrobe and pick the most versatile pieces.
You can keep it simple by choosing two neutrals (like black and gray or white and beige) and adding in one additional color, or have fun experimenting with bolder choices.
Roll Your Clothes
Folded clothes tend to take up more space, so make them as tiny as possible by rolling them! You’ll be amazed at how much space you’ll gain.
Organize Your Cosmetics & Tech Products
Don’t be the person scrambling to get their cosmetics in order in the TSA lineup. Organize your cosmetics, skincare, and tech products accordingly by placing them in separate bags so they’re ready to go for security.
Pro tip: Use solid skincare products if possible (shampoo and conditioner bars, soap bars, facial bars, etc). Not only are they more eco-friendly, they’re so much easier to travel with than messy liquids!
Bring A Few Extra Bags
Pack some small bags that you can use for dirty laundry, shoes, and/or wet bathing suits. They may not be included with your accommodation, so it’s worth being prepared.
Optimize Your Space
When it comes to travel bags and suitcases, every inch counts. Make use of any empty spaces in your items, like placing small accessories in handbags, or rolled up socks inside of your shoes. It might not seem like much, but you can fit a surprising amount inside of these hidden pockets.
Wear Your Bulkiest Items
Try to wear your bulkiest and heaviest items while you do the actual traveling. So if you’re planning on bringing chunky sneakers and light sandals, pack the sandals and wear the sneakers. Of course, you’ll want to be comfortable while you travel. Don’t force yourself to wear anything that might cause discomfort, but try to keep your lighter items in your bag if possible.
Reconsider Your Essentials
Being away from home means you might have to sacrifice some home comforts. Try to bring the actual essentials — you know, the items you really can’t live without rather than the little luxuries you like to add to your daily routine. For example, you might want to pare a multi-step skincare routine down to just cleanser, moisturizer, and SPF. It’s only a temporary measure and you’ll be able to get back to your regular routines once you’re back from your vacation.
Remember: simplicity and versatility are key when you’re on the road. Travel is all about making the most of every moment, not fussing over stuff! We hope these tips have given you more clarity and ease for your next vacation.
Hope to see you ’round La Vie sometime soon! xoxo
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