Pack Like A Pro
Summer is quickly approaching, and that means, vacations are near! Since my mother has been employed at United Airlines for over thirty years, I have naturally learned a few packing hacks. So, I am here to share a few tips on how to live your absolute best life, by plane, train, or automobile.
- Mix and Match Pieces
When you mix and match interchangeable pieces of your wardrobe; you are doubling outfits. While packing, you should bring 70% essential pieces and 30% trendy pieces. If you get to your destination and you are not feeling your outfit, or the weather does not permit what you have previously planned, you can switch it up. The benefit of packing with a more minimalistic style means you could go from just wearing one outfit a day, to having a daytime outfit and at nighttime look.
- Pack Outfits Not Options
Packing options was a bad habit I accidentally developed. If I knew I was going on a trip for five days, I would pack ten full outfits for no reason. I wasted so much energy and additional space because I was indecisive. Get organized! Sit down, plan your outfits, and bring two extra outfits. One more on the dressy side and one on the casual side. There are a ton of different factors that can come into play on a vacation or work trip and you never know when you need to spruce it up for an unexpected fancy occasion.
- Pack Backwards
The concept of packing backward is simple. You pack your absolute last outfit first. Then, make your way up to the first outfit you want to wear on your trip. If you have a trip that is a Monday through Friday. Pack your Friday traveling back home outfit first at the bottom of the suitcase then Thursday, Wednesday, all the way until Monday. Finally, pack your shoes, accessories, and toiletries on the very top.
Pro Tip: If your trip is longer than overnight, make yourself at home. When you pack backward, you can leave your shoes out in a closeted area, put your toiletries in the restroom, and hang your clothes up to de-wrinkle. Do not be afraid to make yourself comfortable in a temporary space.
- Maximize Your Personal Bag
If you are traveling by plane, you are allowed one personal item and one carry-on item. Your personal item can be as large as the duffel bag size. This means you can pack empty purses in your bag and everything you would immediately need. When you bring a sizeable personal bag, you can “pack” your laptop, chargers, and anything you would typically carry in a regular purse or bag. This is a low-key version of having two carry on items. We are busy people; there is no need to pay extra and check-in bags.
- Compartmentalize
When you are packing toiletries and accessories, group by function. Organize your life and have a small bag dedicated to everything you would bring with you to the restroom. Another bag for your cords and chargers, and the third one for hair accessories. This function helps you save time by allowing you to grab and go with the appropriate bag. You can even toss your hair accessory bag into the purse you packed and be on your way. Cosmetic bags like the ones mentioned are often sold in the travel section of pharmacies. They come in multiple varieties and colors.
Traveling has the opportunity to be stressful, but if you pack correctly, that could be the easiest part of your trip! When you are intentional with your travels, you tend to focus more on what is essential and you cut out a ton of stress. Follow these packing tips for more carefree travels and more fun in the sun.
