Essential packing tips for easy travel

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Easy packing tips

Packing can quickly become overwhelming. But certain methods make it much less of a chore. (Pro tip: Tightly rolling clothes tends to free up more room, and it can also help reduce wrinkles). Here are some other ways to stay organized and resist the urge to overpack:

1. Starting early

Packing early gives travelers enough time to really think about everything they might need. It also cuts down on the stress of last-minute preparations. That extra time might even help them remember items they originally forgot.

2. Embracing a capsule travel wardrobe

A capsule wardrobe is a small collection of different items that can be easily mixed and matched to create multiple outfits. These staples can help cut down the total number of items people need to bring. Fewer clothes tends to create less confusion about what to pack. It also decreases the chances of forgetting something important. 

Shoes tend to be the heaviest and also take up the most space. Comfortable walking shoes should definitely make it into the bag. Neutral colors and pairs suited for any activities planned should also take priority.

3. Using packing cubes

Packing cubes help keep luggage neatly organized by separating different types of items into individual bags. This makes it much easier to see exactly what’s been packed and what might be missing. It can also help people save space in the suitcase for gifts, souvenirs or anything else they may want to bring home.

4. Double-checking the morning-of-travel list

Creating a “morning-of” list helps travelers remember important items before departure. It’s one way to make sure last-minute essentials (like toothbrushes or phone chargers) actually make it into the bag. It can also act as a final sweep, prompting people to include items that couldn't be packed earlier on.

5. Bringing a laundry bag

A laundry bag separates dirty clothes from clean ones and helps contain smells and the spread of dirt. It also makes packing up a lot easier. People can simply toss these pouches into the suitcase and go. Once they land home, they can put the bag and its contents into the wash.

6. Investing in tracking devices

Tracking devices can be attached to personal items such as keys, wallets or luggage. People can track them using Bluetooth signals from nearby devices. This technology allows travelers to keep tabs on their items throughout their trip. If they forget something, their phone can show them exactly where it is. And that can save people from a lot of unnecessary stress when traveling.  

7. Carrying on important items

It’s helpful to keep important items — like medicine, passports and money — in a carry-on bag. It means they won’t go missing if other luggage gets lost. Easy access to these essentials might also be important in the event of an emergency. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) allows larger amounts of medically necessary liquids, gels and aerosols in reasonable quantities for flight, but travelers must declare them to TSA officers at the security checkpoint for inspection. Always review TSA guidelines before traveling in case there are changes.

8. Leaving room for souvenirs

Leaving some extra room in the suitcase means not having to squeeze in new purchases. That kind of planning might even save people from having to buy extra luggage for the way home. It also reduces the risk of getting charged for an overweight bag. 

What to pack for the next trip

People tend to pack different items for different destinations. But there are a few essentials that travelers should keep close wherever they go. Here’s a few things people should have on hand or tucked away in their luggage:

Documents

Travel documents confirm a person's right to enter and exit different countries or regions. They are also often required for things like checking into flights, hotels or renting a car. Plus, passports and other forms of identification can help provide important information in the case of an emergency.

Emergency contact cards

Accidents happen, even on vacation. Contact cards make it easy for medical staff to notify friends and family in the event of an emergency, which can provide tremendous relief to loved ones who would otherwise worry.

Medicines

Some medicines might be hard to find or unavailable in other places. That’s why it’s important for people to pack any helpful medications when traveling. This precaution saves people the trouble of trying to get new prescriptions when out of town. If flying, it’s best to keep medications in carry-on luggage. That way, people can access them whenever they need.

Toiletries

Packing up a few toiletries can help travelers stay fresh during their journey. These items can also come in handy after they land. Hotels might offer some basics, but they probably won’t have a favorite shampoo or special skin care item. These picks are important for people with allergies or sensitive skin, too. That’s because unfamiliar products may cause unexpected skin reactions or irritations.

A word to the wise: The amount of product to pack depends on travel restrictions and trip length. For carry-on luggage, liquids must follow the 3-1-1 rule: containers no larger than 3.4 ounces in a single quart-sized bag per passenger. Longer trips may require checking a bag to accommodate full-sized products, while short getaways can often work with travel-sized essentials.

Chargers

Most electronics rely on chargers to keep their batteries powered and ready. If these devices get too low, they could die in the middle of travel, and that can leave passengers without access to a map or the ability to call someone. International travelers may need plug adapters (and maybe converters) to charge their devices in another country.

Sun protection

Sunscreen is another item people often forget to pack, and that can become a real problem when traveling. Too much sun can cause painful sunburns and even make a person sick. It can also make it more difficult to enjoy time outside when away. The good news is that sunscreen is pretty easy to find in most places, but it can be pricey to replace.  

Water bottles

Bringing a reusable water bottle makes it easier to stay hydrated, which is important when active or in hot climates. It also helps save money; constantly buying single-use plastic bottles can add up quickly. Reusable items help reduce plastic waste, too.

Key takeaways

Smart packing habits can help travelers keep track of all their essentials. High-impact hacks include organizing the suitcase, keeping important items close and leaving some room for souvenirs. It’s also important to remember which items absolutely need to come on the trip. Medications, travel documents and chargers are usually at the top of the list. Making lists and double-checking for essentials before leaving the house helps, too.