TIPS FOR PERFECT PRE-TRIP PACKING
Spring break at last! We work year-round to afford a few weeks' vacation a year, so we might as well leave with a clear conscience! Packing can sometimes be a real headache. To avoid last-minute stress and ensure a stress-free departure, here are a few tips and tricks for organizing your luggage efficiently.
Making lists
Lists are your best ally for flawless preparation! Use list apps on your smartphone, or go the old-fashioned paper-and-pencil route!
Personally, I like using Apple's "Notes" application for its simplicity and features: easy search, checklists, note sharing in the cloud, collaborative notes, programmable reminders, event creation, photo integration, document scanning and the list goes on. I use it to manage just about everything in my daily life.
When preparing for a trip, there's no need to reinvent the wheel: refer to your previous lists to make sure you don't forget the essentials, and add to them as necessary. Don't hesitate to take notes as soon as you think of something to take with you, as this will free your mind and give you a clear vision of what you'll need.
Start compiling your packing list at least 30 days before departure.
What's more, if you're missing any items, put them on a "To Buy" list. That way, you can do your shopping in advance and avoid running to the stores at the last minute.
Adapt your luggage to your destination and activities
There are 2 types of travelers: those who always bring too much and those who often forget the essentials. Whether you're off for a week's hiking in the wilderness or a Caribbean cruise, adapt your luggage to your destination and planned activities. Avoid overloading your suitcase with unnecessary clothing. Ask yourself: do I really need 15 T-shirts for a week?
Choose versatility and lightness. For air travelers, familiarize yourself with your airline's baggage weight and size rules to avoid unpleasant surprises at check-in.
Organizing your suitcase
Once you've made your selection, it's time to pack your suitcase efficiently. I suggest a number of folding and organizing techniques that will help you save space and gain easier access to your belongings. It's up to you to choose the ones you prefer:
– Stack clothes vertically* Instead of folding clothes on top of each other, try stacking them vertically in your suitcase. This will allow you to see all the clothes easily, save space and access what you need without having to unpack the entire contents of your suitcase. * This is my preferred method!
– Rolling clothes This technique is very effective for saving space and reducing wrinkles. Start by folding the garment in half lengthwise, then roll it tightly. This method works particularly well with T-shirts, lightweight pants, dresses and shirts.
– Use compression bags Compression bags: perfect for saving space in your suitcase. Place your clothes inside the bag, then remove the air by compressing the bag. This considerably reduces the volume of your clothes, ideal for trips where space is limited.
– Use cloth bags for underwear and accessories Keep your underwear, socks and accessories in different-colored fabric bags. This keeps them together, by category, so you can find them quickly when you need them.
– Put liquids and toiletries in transparent pouches Use a transparent, compartmentalized, easy-to-hang toiletry case for quick access to your care products without having to unpack everything each time. When traveling by plane, make sure the contents of your hand luggage comply with the rules on liquids by storing them in transparent pouches that comply with airport security standards. This will save you time and hassle at the airport, and get you through security quickly.
By following these simple tips, you can say goodbye to the stress of packing and enjoy your vacation from day one. Enjoy your trip and make new discoveries! 🌴✈️🧳
