I am one of those people who can pack for any trip — business or pleasure — in a rollaboard suitcase and a personal bag that can fit beneath the seat in front of me. A week-long trade show requiring suits? No problem. Two weeks in Europe? Easy. I have the skills.
Let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like traveling with a kid to add to the challenge. When we embark on any family trip, it always seems to happen that my husband gets his own bag, and I have to share my space with the kiddo. I’ve learned to cheat with the kid, and I pack clothing that’s at the end of its life span. When it gets stained, I toss it. Simple as can be. But his stuff invariably leaves me with less room in my bag for my own stuff, making mix-and-match efficiency a huge priority. With the stuff I’m listing here, I no longer need to pack more than four days’ worth of clothes. That gives me ample time to wash and air dry before needing it again.
This post will let you in on some of my must-have travel items.
Luggage
I own two types of luggage: a Travelpro 22″ rollaboard and a 22″ backpack with removable daypack, similar to this one.
The 3-ounce rule
Yes, the TSA 3-ounce rule is a horrible nuisance. After much research, trial and error, I’ve concluded the best little bottles come from REI. They sell them individually in the store, and the 3-oz bottles are the perfect size for up to two weeks’ worth of shampoo.
Laundry
When traveling for leisure, remember this: you don’t know these people, and they won’t know that you’ve worn those clothes before. I highly recommend packing clothes that have labels suggesting that they are quick-drying or moisture-wicking. They will dry quickly and be ready to wear again in 24 hours. If you’re not staying in a hotel or condo with laundry facilities, bring a sink stopper and some Woolite, which rinses out easily.
Clothing
For men, convertible pants can handle almost any weather, and can double as swim trunks in a pinch. Plain, dark-colored t-shirts can take you almost anywhere by day, with a long-sleeve shirt for layering or dinner.
Women, I’ve found that the most efficient travel option is the bra top (like this or these) coupled with a cardigan. Dress it up with a long, black skirt or down with a pair of capris.
Always travel with a lightweight, hooded, water-resistant jacket. Trust me.
Folding
Creasing clothes causes wrinkles. Therefore, the more you can fold things together (imagine everything folded in a large ball), the less creasing occurs. OneBag has the best explanation of my own personal technique, so rather than reinventing the wheel I’ll just direct you there.
Shoes
Ladies, this is just for you. I’ve found two types of shoes that are ideal for walking comfort without looking like sneakers. Behold, breathable shoes and comfort sandals that don’t look bulky. And yes, buy from Zappos for their free shipping, free returns and generally amazing customer service.
Compression bags
Space Bag is the best known product in this category, and they work just fine, but I found a no-name set at Target that seals as well or better, and they cost less.
Hopefully this will help you prepare for your next trip. When I return from mine, I’ll post pictures of my packing skills in action.
Wow, I thought I was good at packing!
** Taking notes **
Loved this post.