5 Top Ways to Pack for Vacation

You’ve booked your accommodations and planned your itinerary, now you’re counting down the days until your well-deserved trip. There’s just one last thing to do: get packing! Keep these tips in mind to pack right, whether you’re taking a weekend away or an extended vacation.

Pack Light

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Image via Flickr by Marco Nurnberger

Many Americans are guilty of loading up their suitcases with items they might never use, “just in case.” However, overpacking is inconvenient and, if you’re traveling by air, costly. Some travel experts recommend reducing the amount you intend to take by half. That might sound daunting, but these tips can help you out.

Just as writing a shopping list reduces what goes in your cart, sticking to a packing list can keep your luggage light. Creating a capsule collection of coordinating separates is a great way to reduce your luggage. Pick pieces in a small selection of colors you know work well together. Research your destination and learn what items will be provided for you. There’s no sense packing hairdryers or beach towels if they’re at your accommodations. Your smartphone can also double as an e-reader, camera, and stereo, so leave your books, SLR camera, and CDs behind.

Pack Logically

Packing logically helps your items arrive at their destination in the best possible condition. Laying everything you want to bring on the floor or bed first will help you form a logical plan of attack. Start with bulky items, then put smaller items around them to form a sturdy base layer. Wrap fragile items such as electronics and bottles of wine in soft clothes for protection. Let your crushable clothes form the top layer to reduce wrinkles.

Don’t Forget About Your Underwear

Many travelers focus so much on their vacation outfits that they forget about something more important: what’s underneath. However, the right underwear is crucial for keeping you comfortable and well supported while you’re away. By all means, pack some sexy underwear for vacation flings, but don’t forget about those comfy pieces too. Knit boxer briefs and cotton hipster styles will help you feel as good as you look.

Medical Supplies Matter

We all hope we’ll be fit and healthy while we’re away, but life doesn’t always go according to plan. If you fall ill or hurt yourself, you’ll be glad you packed some medical supplies. Packing pain relievers, antihistamines, Band-Aids, cold medications, and any medications you take, along with their prescriptions, will provide real peace of mind.

Bring Wheeled Carry-On Luggage

Carry-on luggage is an essential part of any suitcase set, but many modern varieties aren’t carried at all. You’ll find getting around easier with a wheeled carry-on case. These modern cases are simple to maneuver through airports and hotel lobbies and are much kinder on the body than duffel bags and backpacks.

Following these proven packing strategies will make sure you have everything you need on vacation without feeling weighed down. Take your time to incorporate the following strategies into your packing routine to start your vacation on the right foot.