Many of you know that I was just on the East coast to visit friends and family and before I head out, I always share my packing process/packing list on my Instagram Story. This time I also shared some of my packing tips and tricks while putting everything into my suitcase and I was floored by the number of responses I got.
However since Instagram Stories are fleeting, I figured I’d put all my travel and packing tips in one place that you can reference at any time.
Now, why do I feel qualified to give travel and packing advice at all?
Well, I used to be a huge over packer. Like, wants to take her whole closet with her, kind of overpacker. However as I’ve traveled more over the years and the airlines started charging more per bag, something had to give. There is no reason to pay an additional $50 just to move your clothes from point A to point B unless you really have to and since most of us don’t travel for more than a week or two at a time, there is really no point (or reason) to overpack and overpay.
That all being said, here are my top packing tips (and some general travel tips) so you never have to pay for a checked bag again
PACKING TIPS
Pick a color scheme and stick to it. It’s much easier to mix and match pieces and create a variety of outfits without needing a ton of clothes to get the job done.
Know what pieces wear well and don’t wrinkle easily. Pack as many of these pieces as possible. Otherwise you may want to invest in a travel steamer
Plan out your outfits ahead of time! This means looking at the weather and making a list of both the things you are planning on bringing PLUS all the different outfit combinations you can make from them. This helps speed up your packing process and when you’re on your trip too. I do this all from the Notes App on my phone
Roll, don’t fold your clothes. This helps avoid as many wrinkles as possible and also takes up much less room allowing you to pack more! Your suitcase just became valuable real estate, make the most of it.
If you’re packing an extra handbag, stuff it full. Use socks, underwear, place any items that don’t fit well in other spaces in here. I’ll normally use socks, underwear, any hair tools, and accessories.
Limit yourself to three pairs of shoes. These are probably the heaviest thing you’ll be bringing so make sure to wear the biggest/heaviest/bulkiest on the plane.
If you don’t regularly wear something at home, don’t take it on your trip. More than likely you won’t wear it but will end up carting it around the country regardless. Only bring your favorites that you know you’ll be comfortable wearing.
GENERALS TRAVEL TIPS
Many airlines will gate check your carryon bag free of charge. This helps you avoid fighting for overhead space or running for a connection with a roller bag.
Have bandaids in your bag as a backup because even your most comfortable shoes won’t be after an entire day of walking (NYC was over 20,000 steps or 10 miles a
Watch the weather before and during your trip. You can avoid packing shorts and dresses if it’s going to be cold and wet and not get caught wearing long pants on the hottest day of your trip.
Bring a bag big enough to carry a water bottle and some snacks. Bonus if it also has easy access for your cell phone or any ID you might need.
Check your cell phone memory before your trip. You don’t want to stop mid-snap in order to clear up space on your phone. Delete those extra apps ahead of time and move some old photos
There is a difference between vacation and traveling. Be clear about which you’ll be doing on your trip. Some people like to go-go-go sightseeing, while others like to have leisure down time.
What are your top travel and packing tips? Let me know in the comments! I’m always looking for new and better ways to thwart TSA and we are getting closer and closer to the holiday travel season.
Until next time,
Ana Luiza
Need some more packing inspo? Check out these posts for some more of my travel and packing tips!
Thank you for all of the tips!! I am traveling to Montreal soon and can only bring a carry-on (too scared to check a bag with a layover and on an international flight) so these tips will definitely come in handy.
Good luck with your packing! I can’t wait to hear how it goes!
xo – Ana Luiza