Packing 101

I used to be the queen of overpacking. I would plan for every possible contingency with the weather, activities, etc. I would be loaded down with all this “stuff,” lugging it through airports, into hotels, etc. I finally had enough. While I don’t know if I’ll ever be so good at it I can avoid checking luggage, at least I can carry what I have without struggling. Here is what I’ve learned:

Less is more: Consider where you’re going: If you’re staying at a decent hotel, they will likely provide you with a hairdryer, lotion, clothes iron, shampoo (though I prefer to bring my own), cups, etc. For toiletries, I only pack what I need. I have invested in trial size bottles of common items, like contact lens solution, shaving cream, toothpaste (free from the dentist), shampoo, dental floss (also free from the dentist), etc.

Match outfits: I used to haphazardly throw clothes in my suitcase, and I’d end up with lots of stuff I couldn’t wear because they didn’t match. Now I match complete outfits before I pack them, and if I can re-wear certain pieces and mix and match, all the better! I roll clothes and they take up less space in my suitcase.

Minimize jewelry: For everyday wear, bring one set of complimentary jewelry. For me, it’s all gold: wedding/engagement ring, my favorite gold necklace (has “rings” representing marriage rings, and the birthstone rings for my 2 sons), a modest diamond tennis bracelet, a gold anklet (if it’s summer) and a gold/silver tone watch. This ensemble goes with anything. If I have a special outfit for a presentation, I will bring an extra set of jewelry just for that. The less jewelry you take with you, the less of a chance it will get lost or stolen.

How long is your trip? If it’s longer than 4 days, consider bringing some laundry detergent and washing your clothes halfway through. It’s easier than packing twice the number of outfits. This is especially true if it’s a vacation when you’re visiting family. If it’s a business trip, you can sometimes write off the cost of having your clothes laundered while you’re on your trip.

Be safe: I watched a scary expose one night about hotel safety. Always be aware who is around you before you walk into your room. If someone appears to be following you down the hall, do not open your room door. They may push you into your room and go in with you. You’re much safer staying out in the hallway where there are at least the possibility of other guest and security cameras. Also, don’t fumble for your room key. Have it out as soon as you enter the hotel.

Have the necessary technology: If you’re going to be bringing your laptop, make sure you know whether a hotel has dial-up, wireless, or an ethernet access in your room. You don’t want to be caught without the right technology.

I just returned from a business trip on Friday and I’m leaving for another one soon. Travel packing is certainly on my mind. Happy packing!