Packing doesn’t have to be an issue. You’ve probably read tips and more tips for packing this way or that way. Everyone seems to have their own tips. Take a look at a few of these…then let me know what works for you.
You don’t really need to pack all the clothes you think you’ll need. Try to stick to a simple color palette and work pieces around that. I pack clothes that don’t wrinkle and can be rolled for efficiency and space in my bag. I also know ahead of time whether there will be a washer available. If not, I pack things I can wash in a sink.
There is no need to bring things ‘just in case.’
Plus, unless you’re going to a very, very remote spot…there will probably be shops. So you forgot to bring more than one pair of socks. I’ll bet you can buy them.
How many shoes do you bring? How do you pack them? Think about what you will be doing and bring the bare minimum. If you’ll be hiking or walking where they will get dirty, pack them in your laundry bag to keep them from getting dirt all over your suitcase.
I also check ahead of time to see if there is a hair dryer. Hotels, Air B&B’s, VRBO’s will all list it on their website. No need to pack one if there is one there.
How about your extra lithium battery? It has to go in your carry on luggage. Your corkscrew? It can go in your carry on if it doesn’t have a knife on it. If it does, put it in your checked luggage.
Did you buy the latest travel gizmo or gadget? It looked so cool in the ads. Now…you have to pack it. Before you buy it, decide if it’s really worth the space it’s going to take up.
If you’re going outside the US, be sure to pack the one travel gadget that’s worth it. Your adapter…you’ll need it.