Pack Light & Pack Smart
When travelling on a week long group trip to Mexico, I was surprised to see that one person brought along 2 huge suitcases filled with clothing for every climate, plus a carry-on, plus a large purse.
When asked, “Why would you bring boots and a winter coat to Mexico?”
She responded, “I’ve never been there. How do I know what its like?”
So we helped her lug overstuffed bags (without wheels) through airports, into the rented vans, and in/out of accommodations until someone had her sort through and downsize, leaving one huge piece of luggage stuffed with unnecessary items in the rental van.
When preparing for a trip, you need to pack smart and pack light. These tips will work whether you're travelling for a week or a month as long as you select the right items and are willing to wash a few things now and then.
When asked, “Why would you bring boots and a winter coat to Mexico?”
She responded, “I’ve never been there. How do I know what its like?”
So we helped her lug overstuffed bags (without wheels) through airports, into the rented vans, and in/out of accommodations until someone had her sort through and downsize, leaving one huge piece of luggage stuffed with unnecessary items in the rental van.
When preparing for a trip, you need to pack smart and pack light. These tips will work whether you're travelling for a week or a month as long as you select the right items and are willing to wash a few things now and then.
- Based on the experience above, if you’re not sure what to bring, do some research. What may seem appropriate wear in North America may get you a few sideways glances in other cultures. Some places have dress codes or guidelines, such as many churches/tourist attractions of southern Europe.
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- Gather everything you think you want to bring, lay it out, then seriously scrutinize. Are you sure you want to pack a snorkel and flippers? Do you need all that makeup and jewelry?
Do you need so many shoes? Plan your outfits around that one pair you pack and one pair you wear for travelling. Depending where I’m headed, I generally travel with a casual slip on or sandal, running shoes for heavier walking, and one pair of dressy shoes, if necessary.
Do you really need that extra special outfit “just in case”? Consider one pair of dress pants or skirt that you can match up with different tops that you also wear with your jeans or shorts for a casual look. For the ladies, one pashmina can be used as a scarf, wrap, skirt, or a lap blanket when travelling.
Now that you found the right bag and have downsized to what you really need, how you pack is the next step. Here are a few of my favourite tips:
Pack your shampoo, sunscreen, and other liquid/gel amenities in a good quality re-sealable storage bag to avoid a mess in your travel bag. Remember, when bringing carry-on luggage, you are not permitted to pack liquid or gel substances unless they are in individual containers of 100 ml or less and enclosed in one clear plastic, zip-top bag per passenger (I suggest making sure each item is labelled). Keep this in an outer pocket so you can easily pull it out and place it in the xray tray making the security process simpler.
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- Stuff smaller items inside your shoes.
- Use shoe bags to keep them from getting anything dirty.
- To keep your delicate chain from knotting, feed it through a straw and clasp the ends closed (for bracelets just cut the straw smaller).
- Pack the heaviest items at the bottom of your luggage when standing so it doesn't crush other items.
- Keep your valuables close. Use a zippered bag so you can carry your money, passport, travel papers, camera, laptop, and any other items you want to keep on you all in one convenient place. This one can be stored under your seat (you might even want to put one foot through the handle loop for added security if you fall asleep)
- Leave a little space for that special gift or souvenir you'll want to bring home.