Packing Tips for Seamless Vacation

I can't believe it's getting so close to Thanksgiving! As many of you prepare to travel this holiday season, I thought it would appropriate to address a question I receive often from clients... Packing.

When traveling with others, I usually get asked how I seem to have an outfit for every occasion or how I remembered to pack everything. Having traveled for years and learning from a multitudes of mistakes, I finally developed a system that I can count on.  This is how I pack...

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1. First I pack on paper (write my list).
   I look over my itinerary at the places that I will travel and imagine what I will want to wear and things I will need.  When I have some time, while waiting for a doctor appointment or at the end of the day when I have a moment to relax, I’ll start a pack list on my phone or planner.  As things pop into my head throughout the day I will add them.  Some of the best ideas come at random times.
   
   
2. When pack day comes, I don’t look at the list.
   I literally just walk through my morning and evening routine and grab the items that I use.  Shampoo, conditioner, hair spray, etc.  I usually keep a travel size of these things ready or I make one.  I throw everything on my bed as I go.
   
   
3. Select a color pallet.
   By sticking to one or two color pallets it’s easy to interchange pieces. Less is more!  I still don’t look at my list.  I go through each day in my mind selecting outfits and then add undergarments and pajamas.  I throw everything on my bed.
   
   
4. Then I look at the written list. 
   And guess what? There are always things on the list that I would have forgotten.  My sunglasses!  And there are also things that are on my bed that weren’t on my original list.  Sunscreen!  This method catches something - it never fails.  Now that you are confident that you have it all, pack everything but your liquids.
   
   
5. Next, assess the pile.     
   Now I have everything I want to take on my bed.  Is it too much? (It usually is) I then pare it down. When I’m ready, based on my needs, I select the suitcase and carry on that will work best.  I separate into three piles: what goes in the carry on, what to pack in my suitcase and liquids. 
   
   Hint: See my carry on pack list!
   
   
6. Finally, I put liquids in clear plastic bag (1 quart size is the TSA requirements).
   I like to keep my bag of liquids in my carry on because they tend to be items I would be devastated not to have if the airline lost my bags. This is the very last item to be packed because it’s the first thing you’ll have to pull out at the airport.
   
   

Maybe this process takes longer than your usual method but I promise – it works.  If you want a stress-free vacation, it all starts with making sure you pack everything you need (BEFORE the morning of your flight).

When you are ready to plan your next vacation, give us a call at (913) 244-9195, and we'll help you design the perfect itinerary for you!  Experiences Await...