Summertime is all about good weather, relaxing and traveling.  However, in order to experience those things, you must go through one of the most frustrating elements of preparing for vacations – packing.  Why can’t you just magically transport your whole closet with you?  It would be so much easier.  While we wait around for teleportation to exist, here are some helpful packing tips and tricks to keep your mind focused on vacation mode and less on if everything will fit and be under 50 pounds.

 

Packing

Layers on Layers on Layers

Layers will be your best friend for any trip.  Think of pieces that work for multiple occasions.  Jeans and a t-shirt can transform into a cute look for a night out with the right heels and jewelry.  It’s all about what you can add or subtract to make your outfit work overtime.  The same goes for shoes – make sure any pair of shoes you pack can work for different outfits, not just one.  If you have trouble narrowing down things, pull everything you want and then edit from there, eliminating things that can’t pull double duty.

 

Plan Ahead

Pick out your outfits ahead of time.  Do your research on the weather and what activities you are planning to attend. Pull together full complete outfits and take pictures of them so you won’t forget.  You can even put your outfits into gallon Ziploc bags or garment bags with the day of the week written on them so it’s a no brainer when you are getting dressed.  This will avoid you ripping apart your suitcase looking for that one thing pilled under everything.

Toiletries

 

The Silent Killer

There’s one section of your suitcase that is always out to sabotage you and loves nothing more than attempting to ruin your vacation right from the start…your toiletries.  Those little bottles of liquid doom are rolling around just waiting to spill all over your well-thought out outfits.  Invest in some good toiletry bottles – GoToob are always a favorite and keep your lotions and potions in place.  You can also place plastic wrap on top of the opening of bottles before screwing the lids on, that will also help.  When it comes to packing toiletries, lay out your bag a couple days ahead and when you go through your morning and evening regiments, place the products into the bag instead of back in the drawers or cabinets.  You’ll always have all your essentials packed with you.

 

Airplane Survival Kit

Pack everything you need to keep yourself clean and comfortable on the plane.  A good starting kit includes antibacterial gel or lotion, facial mist to keep your skin hydrated, moisturizer, lip balm, cozy socks and good snacks.  Plan out little things and surprises to keep you occupied on the plane.

 

Your Secret Safety Net

It can be hard being away from your home, your safe haven.  Make sure to pack a safe comfy outfit.  It can be a favorite sweatshirt or something that feels amazing that instantly makes you cozy and happy.  No matter what the circumstances are, you have your buddy with you ready for action.

 

Make the most of your vacation and trips from home by investing in them before you even leave your house.  Take some time to plan ahead, and you’ll be having the best time as soon as you clock out from work.