Things to Know When Packing

So, it’s time to pack for your adventure? Clothes are strewn on your bed. Toiletries line the bathroom counter. Your packing list has been revised 47 times. Hold on! There are some things to know when packing for your trip. We have tips, tricks, and hacks to make this process a lot less stressful.

Slow down and don’t stress.

Being stressed is one of the main reasons travelers forget things they need when packing. If you are frantically running around trying to remember everything you need you are more likely to leave something behind. Take a step back. Take a deep breath. Make a list. This will help you focus on the things you actually need rather than randomly tossing things into a suitcase.

Extra chargers and cables are a necessity.

Charging cords break, they can get a short in them, and chargers may be worn out. We live in a tech world. Our phones are our cameras and our lifeline to our loved ones. You need to make sure you have plenty of battery if you’re halfway across the country or even the world.

Try to keep your packing light.

Packing in a cary-on and a personal bag such as a weekender or backpack will save you lots of time and money at the airport. Checking a bag is expensive! Packing light also saves a lot of time and possibly heartache. When you check luggage you have to go through baggage claim, which is a process. It’s a process that sometimes ends in heartache when you realize your checked bag is missing. Carry-ons are the way to go!

Check your airline’s luggage size and weight requirements.

What may work for one airline, may not work for another. Be sure to check the website of your airline for specifics.

Ziplock freezer bags are amazing for packing.

We recommend freezer bags specifically because they are sturdier than regular storage bags. They can be used for a variety of things – toiletries, shoes, wet clothes, etc. You can even pack outfits for kids in the gallon size and label them for each day. We bring several extra quart and gallon size every trip.

Check TSA requirements.

There are specific limits on liquids and other packing requirements. It’s important that you keep up to date on all these to make sure you don’t get stuck at security and have to dispose of your shampoo or contact solution because it doesn’t meet the requirements. You can view the most up-to-date information here at the TSA website.

Looking for more packing information? Check out our video podcast Things to Know When Packing.

If you’re traveling with kids, be sure to check our blog post Traveling With Kids of All Ages.

And, remember, break the monotony, not the bank.

–Jeff and Marnie