What do you think when you look at the calendar during the summer days? Of course, we all think the same – when our vacation comes. All our summer plans are mostly spinning around vacation – most desired period of the year.
Say you made a plan, have found desired destination, bought travel tickets and arranged accommodation. Day X is approaching what is important task before departure? of course wisely pack travel bag.
First thing that should come to your mind, we all are limited with a suitcase size. No matter what you have in your wardrobe, you can’t take everything with you, so when packing a small suitcase for a summer trip, you should think about prioritizing essential items and maximizing space.
Plan Your Outfits
Planning is what saves you money and nerves during your trip.
Think wisely.
How many days is your vacation?
This is crucial question. You should consider how long your vacation is to properly plan what clothes to take in your travel suitcase because the duration of the trip determines the amount and variety of clothing needed to ensure you are prepared for different activities and weather conditions, while also avoiding overpacking or underpacking.
How many outfits do you need?
You have to consider 1 outfit per day at least. Some fashionistas try to change 2-3 outfits per day. Even If you aren’t fashionista, still you can’t wear evening dress, on the beach, therefore write down what activities are you planning during your trip and what outfits will be suitable to them, i.e. beach, hiking, night clubs etc.
Can you wear same outfits more than once?
This question will also help you understand how many items you’ll have to take. Or do you have possibility to wash you t-shirt, lingerie etc. somewhere?
Are temperature changes expected?
In some regions temperatures in the mornings/nights significantly differ from the noon. If temperature difference are not expected, yet you still have to grab 1 sweater, 1 jacket and socks or tights.
What activities are planned? (e.g., beach, hiking, dining out) For hiking you’ll need to consider clothed boots, while for beachwear sandals. For club and restaurants different footwear. Footwear is our most important component of wardrobe as some activities might be cancelled if you don’t have appropriate footwear. For business meeting consider official outfits.
Is there access to laundry facilities? If you can use laundry, of course this might significantly ease your stay and number of items that must be taken with you.
Do you need any specific gear or equipment? Consider such items as e.g., snorkeling gear, hiking boots, swimsuits ets.
Are there any cultural or dress code considerations? If you are visiting religious sightseeing, please respect local culture and gather information in advance about their dress codes at the temples etc.
Will you have access to toiletries and personal care products? We get used that hotels provide complimentary toiletries and personal care products, but still read in room descriptions that they are provided or take yours.
Are there weight or size restrictions for your luggage? Check in advance what are limitations of you
Will you need to pack snacks or travel essentials? Take some nuts, dry fruits and cakes with you if you are expecting long flight and are not sure airport will meet your diet requirements.
Do you have all necessary travel documents and items? Write down what documents you need e.g., passport, tickets, travel insurance etc.
Are there any health and safety items you need? Think about medications, first aid kit, hand sanitizer, essential vitamins etc.
Do you need electronics and chargers? In 21th century our life is all around gadgets, think what you need e.g., phone, camera, power bank, chargers, laptops, MP3 player, kindle book reader etc.
Once you planned everything based on above questions, let’s consider some ideas How To Pack Suitcase Most Optimal Way?
First of all, take the same number of tops as the number of your vacation days. If you are taking dresses, substitute the number of tops with the number of dresses. For bottoms, take half the number of tops. You will definitely need fewer bottoms than tops, as tops tend to get dirty much faster.
Choose versatile pieces that can be paired differently, creating various outfits from fewer items.
Don’t forget to take essential items like lingerie etc.
Think what kind of accessories will match largest number of your outfits, for the rest take universal ones if you are limited in space. Don’t take expensive jewels. Take ones which in case of loose won’t disappoint you much. Of course, never take family jewels to the trip, even if hotel has safe box in the room.
Always wear stylish outfit on the road trip and airport. However if you are limited in luggage space, wear sneakers during the trip, since they are usually the largest items in your luggage. Try to dress in the airport in organic clothes, this is recommendation of specialists which is not widely discussed.
What are your best practices for packing travel bag? Share your ideas with us in comments box.