6 pro Tips on how to Pack EFFICIENTLY

​Love to travel, but seem to always be struggling in the packing department? Whether you are taking a month-long road trip across the country, hopping a plane for a week-long excursion in Paris, or going to visit friends for the weekend, packing is about to become a whole lot easier with these easy-to-follow tips and tricks!

​Tip #1 – Roll your Clothes
 
Did you know that rolling your clothes, instead of folding them, saves you nearly half the space in your suitcase?! This is probably the most effective and easiest tip to put into action. Begin with your bulkiest items like sweaters and jeans. Then move down to mid-sized clothing such as t-shirts and shorts, and finally finish up with socks and underwear.
 
Tip #2 – Place your Rolled Clothing into Packing Cubes
 
Sometimes the idea of a bag within a bag seems tedious and unnecessary. This is not the case with packing cubes. They are a must if you are trying to make the most out of the space in your suitcase. Place your rolled clothes into packing cubes, trying to keep your “categories” of clothing together. For example, jeans and sweaters in the larger size cubes, and socks and underwear in the small cubes. Bonus comes when you arrive at your destination, and you can place your neatly packed cube straight into the hotel dresser drawer.

If you are traveling with multiple members of your family, I suggest bringing different colored or designed packing cubes, to help keep everyone's items easily identifiable. There are several patterns and colors to choose from if you select the TravelWise packing cubes, which are the sets that my family uses. Oh, and did I mention that they are machine washable too! 

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​Tip #3 – Bring Travel-Sized Toiletries
 
With air-travel restrictions on the size of liquids allowed through security, travel size toiletries are going to become your best kept travel secret. You can either purchase travel sized toiletries pre-filled, or use empty leakproof TSA approved travel containers and pour your favorite shampoo, conditioner and body wash to bring along with you. 

Make sure to check with your hotel or final destination if they provide items such as hair dryers and irons. This will save a lot of space if you do not need to travel with these bulky items.

Tip #4 – Utilize Hidden Space
 
Bringing spare pairs of shoes with you? Don’t let the space inside go to waste! Stuff jewelry, socks, or other small items in a plastic baggie and then inside your spare shoes that are being packed.
 
Pro Tip – Wear your heaviest pair of shoes, and heaviest jacket onto the plane instead of packing them.
 
Tip #5 – Neutral Colors are your Friend
 
Plan to re-wear many of the items that you are packing. Pick a neutral color pallet, so you can mix and match these basics easily to assemble multiple outfits out of a few articles of clothing. A pair of navy or black pants or jeans is easily going to match with several tops. The same advice goes with shoes. While you may love to have a different pair of shoes for every outfit, this isn’t practical for packing within limits. Instead pack two pairs of neutral shoes that will go with the pallet of your travel clothing.

Tip #6 – Carry-on Times Two
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Many airlines will allow two carry-ons per person. Make sure to utilize each piece you are allowed, even if you don’t need it on the way there, you may want the extra space for souvenirs for your trip back.

For airlines such as Frontier and Spirit, who may charge for even a carry-on bag, you will want to check out this personal item bag! I was able to get 3 outfits, toileterie, pajamas, drawstring backpack, my wallet, 2 pairs of sunglasses (with hard eyeglass cases) and a few odds and ends all in this bag! 

Packing properly is an important step in ensuring a smooth and stress-free trip. The key to successful packing is to be organized and methodical. Start by making a list of what you need to bring and prioritize the items based on their importance and the length of your trip. Pack your luggage in layers, starting with heavier items at the bottom and lighter items on top. Roll your clothes instead of folding them to save space and prevent creases. Use packing cubes or compartments to separate items and maximize space. Remember to leave some empty space in your luggage for souvenirs or purchases. Finally, make sure to label your luggage with your name, contact information, and destination to prevent any confusion or loss. By following these tips, you'll be able to pack efficiently and enjoy your trip with peace of mind.

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