Organize Your Life While Traveling

Let us help you to organize your life while traveling!

Do you have the urge to explore new places? To relax in an exotic destination or to visit family?

Packing for a trip can be both exciting and challenging, but with the right approach, it can become a stress-free and organized process. So, let's dive into some useful tips and tricks! 

Location, climate/season, duration & who you are traveling with or to will affect your planning and packing for your trip.

Plan Ahead: Before you start packing, take some time to plan your itinerary and research the weather and activities at your destination. This will help you determine what types of clothing and items you'll need to pack.

For some trips, planning and preparation may mean the difference between life and death. Please use accredited resources to appropriately plan for these types of trips successfully.

Ask yourself questions about your destination: Examples…

Am I hiking and tent camping across the smoky mountains for a week? Explore tents HERE!

Am I vacationing at an all inclusive resort, spa, and Vineyard and Italy? Look for power adapters HERE!

Am I  attending a friend’s wedding in another state for the weekend? Look for a wedding gift HERE!

Are you and the children staying with your cousin and their children for summer vacation? Look for summer fun HERE!

Am I camping in a rental RV for the month? Look for RV essentials HERE!

Researching the culture of your destinations to best determine what type of clothing is acceptable, respecting clothing guidelines, may be necessary to keep you safe. When traveling to foreign countries, it's essential to respect and understand the local culture and customs. Remember, cultural sensitivity and respect are key when traveling in foreign countries. By dressing appropriately and being mindful of local customs, you can create positive interactions and have a safer and more enriching travel experience.

Everyday Responsibilities:

Reschedule any appointments. Request off of work ahead of time. 

Hire a caregiver for loved ones, pets or plants left behind. Consider hiring a landscaping company or home security if you don’t already have one. Stop the mail or have someone bring your postage and packages inside. Possibly hire a house/pet sitter and give them a checklist and any instructions they may need. Finally be sure to give your emergency contact your itinerary and contact numbers in case of emergencies. 

Make a Checklist: Create a comprehensive packing checklist to ensure you don't forget any essential items. Categorize your list into clothing, toiletries, electronics, travel documents, and any specific items related to your destination or planned activities. Pack versatile clothing: Opt for clothing items that can be mixed and matched easily. Choose pieces that can be dressed up or down and can be worn in different combinations. This will help you save space in your luggage while still having a variety of outfit options. 

You may be able to minimize your supplies needed if staying at a luxury, all inclusive resort or staying with a family member with extras. 

We have heard great things about Clever Fox Travel Journals. Check them out HERE!

Things that can go in your carry-on/to-go bag: 

Essential Documents: Make sure to bring all necessary travel documents, including your boarding passes, passport, identification cards, travel insurance, and any reservation confirmations. It's a good idea to have digital copies as well, stored securely on your phone or in the cloud.  You may need a travel document organizer, check those out HERE!

I highly recommend grabbing some brochures or gathering information about the place before you leave. It will give you a better idea of the attractions, local culture, and activities you can enjoy during your trip

Personal items: Wallet, keys, and any other personal belongings you typically carry.

Electronics: Phone, charger, headphones, and any other portable devices you might want to use during your trip. Check out travel electronic organizers HERE!

Entertainment: Books, magazines, or an e-reader, as well as any other entertainment options like puzzles or games for yourself and/or children. 

Snacks: Bring some light, non-perishable snacks to avoid being hungry. Don’t forget about hydration. If flying, bring an empty water bottle to fill up after you get through security.

Travel First Aid Kit: Prepare a small first aid kit with essentials such as band-aids, pain relievers, motion sickness medication, and any prescription medications you may need. It's better to be prepared for any minor health issues that may arise during your trip. 

Choose the best travel first aid kit for you HERE!

A longer trip may require extra medication, vitamins, or medical supplies. Make sure to fill prescriptions ahead of time. 

Travel-Sized Toiletries: To save space and comply with airline regulations, transfer your toiletries into travel-sized containers. Alternatively, consider purchasing travel-sized versions of your favorite products. Don't forget essentials like toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, sunscreen and hand sanitizer.

Add your favorite supplies to this travel bottle set HERE!

Extra Clothes: A change of underwear and a fresh pair of socks in case of any unexpected delays or lost luggage.

Consider the Weather: Pack according to the weather conditions at your destination(s). Layering is key, as it allows you to adjust your clothing based on temperature changes. Bring a lightweight jacket or sweater for cool evenings and always pack a versatile pair of shoes suitable for walking and exploring. The summer may require lightweight clothing. While, winter would require more seasonally appropriate attire.

Clothing/Laundry: This depends on whether you will be buying or borrowing clothes, using a laundry service, using someone’s washer and dryer or bringing back home all of the laundry. Take a washable bag or two with you to store any laundry you need to carry, like this Here!

Roll or Fold Clothing: Maximizing space in your luggage is crucial. One popular technique is rolling your clothes, which minimizes wrinkles and allows for efficient use of space. Alternatively, folding clothes neatly can also save space, especially for bulkier items. 

Use Packing Cubes: Packing cubes are a game-changer when it comes to staying organized. They help compartmentalize your belongings, making it easier to find items and keeping your suitcase tidy throughout your trip.  Choose your favorites HERE!

Important Valuables: Keep any valuable items like jewelry or electronics in your carry-on bag rather than checked luggage.

Leave Room for Souvenirs: If you anticipate bringing back souvenirs or shopping during your trip, leave some extra space in your luggage. Consider packing a foldable tote bag , like this one HERE!, that can be easily stored and used for additional items on your return journey. 

Remember, if flying, to also check your airline's specific guidelines for carry-on luggage size and restrictions on liquids and sharp objects. Packing smartly will help you have a more enjoyable and stress-free flight.

Packing efficiently is all about organization and foresight. By following these tips and customizing them to fit your personal needs, you can ensure a stress-free and enjoyable travel experience. So, pack your bags with confidence, embark on new adventures, and create lasting memories. 

Safe travels to all! Until next time! 

Sherri Papich - Organize Your Life LLC

If this all seems too overwhelming, consider reaching out to a professional organizer. Email me at info@youcanorganizeyourlife.com.