When I was growing up my older sister was so organized, on top of it, andbossygood at giving direction. When we would take family trips she would basically pack for me. Or at the very least I knew if I needed anything – she would have it. Looking back I realize that I basically had a personal assistant in my adolescents and it’s taken me A WHILE tomasterget better at the art of packing… but here is what I’ve learned so far…invest in a rolling bag if carrying on – I still don’t have one and it’s definitely on the list. I’ve carried on my leather bag too many times and have been left panting, switching arms, and feeling like I’m in a tai bow workout class that I can’t get out of. So if you don’t have a rolling bag…. just check it. I love this bag because it’s vinyl so I can clean it off easily, plus it’s SOOOOO easily recognizable on the luggage treadmill. And if I don’t take my own advice and DO carry it on, it fits in the overhead bin.
Fully commit – I used to pack 8 possible outfits for a two day trip. When I was packing I validated this by calling them “options.” No. Now I sit down, check the weather, and really think about what I would want to wear. If it’s a two day trip, I’ll have two days worth (ok maybe 3) of clothing I can mix and match. This saves SO MUCH SPACE. And allows me to not spend as much time figuring out what to wear when I’m in a place I should be exploring.
Take pictures of the packed outfit options – I know that seems a bit extreme, but it’s so much easier than trying everything on again when I’m there. I get some coffee, get back in bed, flip through the pictures, and decide. Taking pictures is also good because it reminds me of the options I created with mix and match pieces.
Bags bags bags – bags for makup, bag for toiletries, bag for dirty clothes, bag for electronics, bags keep everything separated and organized. I heart bags.
pack favorite things– I have to be honest with myself. If I don’t LOVE to wear it at home in my normal day life.. I’m not going to LOVE to wear it wherever I am visiting. So I pack my favorite, everyday pieces that I love to wear.
Never pack two when one will do– I have lots of jeans and sandals, but when it comes to packing for a trip. Space is of the essence. So I never pack two of something when one will work just fine. I just pick my favorite and call it a day.
All these packing tips have really been at the forefront of my mind because I’m leaving this upcoming Monday morning to travel to the Dominican Republic. We are going with Healing Waters – an incredible nonprofit that gives clean drinking water and champions women leaders in villages. I’m so excited to be a part of the purest cause out there and work first hand to help educate women about health and hygiene through “The Her Initiative.”
