Practical Packing Takes Patience and Practice (Say That 5 Times Fast)
Sometimes you feel you need to, bomp bomp, get away. We all do. While our precious LaLa land (that’s an official name now) has much to offer as far as entertainment, art, shows and nightlife, we still want to leave the hustle and bustle of HollyHood and go on an adventure. The worst and worst part of any trip is the packing and unpacking.
Guilty?
I’ll admit I’m part of the try-to-jam-everything-I-own-into-one-suitcase-even-if-I-have-to-sit-on-it-to-close-it club. Because what if I really need those tan sandals? And that new maxi dress isn’t gonna wear itself. In addition, I’m also guilty of re-packing clean clothes and not wearing half of what I intended. It happens. Generally, we like our “stuff” and it’s hard to part with. (Thank god, otherwise there wouldn’t be quality television like Hoarders and Hoarders: Buried Alive.) However, the point of trips is to escape, and you certainly can’t escape a 55-pound piece of polyester containing a week’s worth of under-roos, tanks and various vacation gear, so we must learn to pack efficiently. Since I’ve already admitted I’m not the best at the packing game, I might reference the experts on a few of our tips below. And I should add, while I may not use safe packing techniques all the time, I do have the knowledge.
Think Before Packing
Take a few minutes to ponder your upcoming trip and fashion needs. Think about the destination and even hit the web to check out sites such as weather.com to know what you are getting into. Also, consider how you will get from the airport to the hotel or where you are going to have to lug your bags. Do you need a formal outfit? Do you need running or athletic shoes? Pausing before you pull out the suitcase is the first step to efficiency.
Get Solid Luggage
While that Hello Kitty pink suitcase might be calling your name, you might want to stick to the basics and trusted names in luggage brands. According to prolificliving.com, investing in one piece of smart, durable luggage is essential to packing right. A bag with compartments and tough material is best.
Write It Down
Making a list is the best way to do many things in life. Granted, I’m a girl with lists
Get organized!
of lists, but it’s time and energy-saving to glance at a sheet and know right where you are in the packing process. Fodors.com says in a survey that, “29 percent of respondents said they make lists at least one week before a trip.” And while the list is great for packing to go, it’s also handy for making sure you didn’t leave anything behind on the return. If only I’d made a list on last trip to Mammoth, my precious blue Snuggie wouldn’t be in some stank hotel room in Bishop.
Play Favorites
According to your destination and itinerary, pick out your favorite appropriate clothes. Lots of walking? Don’t forget your Pumas. A fancy dinner calls for your favorite LBD (or LBS, that’s little black suit for the fellas). With your favorite clothes in tow, you won’t feel the panic of something fitting ill or not being ideal. Also, consider packing in layers. Often climates will differ, so be prepared for a little bit of anything. Stick to a few color combos to reduce the number of shoes and belts you will need to bring. But while you’re are at it, bring a scarf or accessory that could change the look of your outfit, but be minimal to pack.
Rollin’ in the Suitcase
When putting items into the suitcase or bag, think about how to utilize the space. Shoes and things that can get wrinkled should go first. Pack dedicates in a small bag, and use minimal space for toiletries. Think about what you really use daily in the bathroom, and what you can purchase at your location. No need to bring full size bottles and call ahead to see if they have a hairdryer. The rest of your clothes can be rolled to prevent wrinkles and make the most use of space. If you haven’t rolled your clothes before, check out this Youtube video for help.
Wear the Heavy Stuff
Wear winter gear to save space.
Cold weather calls for trench coats. Yeah, coming from SoCal it’s great to rub it in that you came from our fabulous warm weather, but getting trench out of your bag is gonna be a pain. Just rock it on the plane and use it as a comfy blanket. Saves space and time when getting to your destination.
Try not to stress the trip packing dilemmas. C’mon, you are going on vacation and it’s gonna be awesome. Keeping things organized while you are there will help you get everything back into your bag, and keep losses minimal. Now, pack it up, pack it in, let me begin…..
- Lori Bartlett
