Last updated December 4, 2023
Sharon Schweitzer, J.D. is a cross-cultural consultant, an international protocol expert and the founder of Protocol & Etiquette Worldwide. Sharon lives in Austin with her husband John, and their golden retriever, Charm.
Heading out on a trip should be fun and enjoyable, but packing for that trip stresses many of us out. Did I remember everything? Is the suitcase too heavy? How can I maximize space?
Like any art form—preparation and thought go into a well-packed bag. Before you pack, create a list of events to be attended, adventure activities, work and evening gatherings requiring professional or evening attire.
Once you’ve selected clothes to wear, remove one outfit. Let’s face it; no one wears everything they pack. There’s always something that can be cut. Select more tops than trousers or skirts because you can easily wear bottoms twice.
More packing tips to make you an expert in this arena:
1. Suitcase
Lightweight and durable are the criteria to keep in mind. Unless you’re headed on an extended vacation (2 weeks plus), a carry-on will alleviate travel stress and save money.
Very few airlines allow a free checked bag. Checking a bag limits options if a flight is canceled or changed.
2. Luggage Scale
It is wise to invest in a residential luggage scale if you must check a bag. Exceeding the 50-pound limit is detrimental to your wallet.
Making sure you are under the weight limit before airport arrival is reassuring.
3. Photograph & Tag
On both carry-on and checked bags, photograph your luggage, pack a business card or ID tag inside and include an external bag tag.
When five identical bags slide down the luggage chute, identify yours with a distinguishing ribbon, sticker or luggage tag.
4. Clothing
Invest in wrinkle-free, lightweight clothing with a similar color palette for layering, easy mixing and matching.
Pack sturdy, several collapsible travel bags for purchases. Don’t mark yourself as a robbery target. Expensive jewelry, family heirlooms and watches stay home.
5. Roll, Roll, Roll
Rolling your clothes saves space while preventing creases and wrinkles. After rolling, use air-compression plastic bags to vacuum extra air.
Efficiently packing the heaviest items (jeans, jackets) at the suitcase bottom. Wrap belts around the edges of the suitcase to cradle clothing.
Fill the suitcase with the lightest clothing at the top (rolling the entire time). This sounds simple, but is truly one those game-changer packing tips.
6. Shoes
If you have a shoe fetish, it may be hard to limit yourself to three pairs of travel shoes: casual pair, tennis shoes, and evening/professional shoes.
Many experts advise wearing your heaviest pair on the day of travel to keep the suitcase weight low.
Shoes go in shoe bags foot-to-toe, before heavy items, at the very bottom. If packing shoe soles facing the bag sides, slide shoes into shower caps or clear plastic bags first.
Place socks and small articles into your deodorized shoes to save space.
7. Toiletries
Purchase travel-sized toiletries under 3.0 ounces, or use destination amenities. Double-bag all necessary toiletries (liquids, gels) to prevent stains.
Place this bag at the very top of your carry-on for quick retrieval at security if you are not TSA-PreCheck.
8. Technology
Organize all gadgets, chargers, and cables in a tech organizer for easy retrieval at security if questions arise.
There you have it! The best packing tips to minimize stress and maximize space. Heading to a wellness retreat? Here are 5 handy packing lists based on your specific retreat type.
About Vacayou
At Vacayou [pronounced VACAY – YOU], we believe that travel has the power to change lives. The power to revive, rejuvenate and redirect your inner wellness warrior. And that’s why we’re here. Vacayou brings the world of wellness travel to you!
No matter how far or how adventurous, our team scours the globe to curate the best in wellness travel. But the booking process can often be time-consuming and complicated. We’ve made it much easier for you to search, discover, and book wellness and active vacations. With Vacayou’s Instant Book, your dream wellness getaway is now just one click away.
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