Kim Kubsch

After you research your destination(s), its weather trends, and the main attractions, it’s time to make a list. Writing everything down—either on paper or on your phone. The list is the best way to guarantee that you do not forget anything essential. Organize your list into different sections: clothing, shoes, documents/electronics, and hygiene products/cosmetics. If you are not a list person, try PackPoint, an organization app that helps you organize your list based on your destination, local weather, and length of stay.

Fill in your contact information on the inside and outside luggage tags.

Take luggage restrictions into account when packing.

Once you have the carry-on and checked baggage dimensions and weight limits, pack the carry-on bag first. Put a basic set of clothes in your carry-on bag. Carry-on luggage is basically for the essential, necessary, or important. In addition to medicines, don’t forget to pack a change of clothes. If space is very limited, at least pack underwear and a t-shirt.

Practice the 1 2 3 4 5 6 Rule.

A simple and easy-to-modify suitcase packing tip for a weeklong trip is 1 hat, 2 pairs of shoes, 3 pairs of pants or skirts, 4 shirts, 5 pairs of socks, 6 sets of underwear. To reduce the amount of clothing you pack, stick to a strict color palette.

Use clear packing cubes.

For the best visibility, use cubes with clear sides or spines. The cubes are basically pouches with zippers, used to compartmentalize the contents of your bag. They can help you have and keep an organized suitcase while also saving space.

Roll your clothes.

Rolling clothes conserves space, reduces wrinkling, and makes it easier to find clothes in your suitcase.

Replace the material with the digital.

Books are bulky, but bytes don’t weigh a thing. If you’re bringing a phone or other mobile device, consider downloading maps, translation apps, travel guides, and reading material for your trip. Store digital copies of your passport and itinerary on your phone and also pack a few printed versions as well.

Do not forget the adapters and power bank.

Buy a universal plug adapter, which is usually small and allows you to charge your electronics everywhere you go. Also, consider packing a power bank. Smartphones and some apps, such as maps and social media, consume a lot of battery. By having a power bank in your bag, you’ll be able to charge your phone everywhere.

Take your full suitcase for a test drive.

Try out your suitcase—carry your suitcase by the handle for a while, roll it up and down the street, and try lugging it up and down stairs. This exercise will show you what it feels like to actually travel with your bag. You may need to lighten your load before you depart!

Pack realistically—have the right amount of items for the space that you have. Wear your heaviest items while flying or driving. Don’t depart with full suitcases at 100% capacity. You will be overflowing during your time away if you acquire any items.

For ideas for packing travel bags, organizing rooms, downsizing homes, or assistance with moving, contact me for a free 30-minute consultation. Contact me at 480-720-8566 or [email protected].

Check back monthly for more ideas about organizing, decluttering, and downsizing!