Summer Travel Organizing Tips

I hope that everyone is enjoying their summer! The weather has been nice and hot in NYC, and you definitely feel that summer is here. Most days, the city is in full force – parks are packed, lots of people are out, and the subways are full (and extremely hot; think sauna!). The weekends in the city are a bit quiet, and lots of people are away travelling. It can be a weekend getaway close by, a trip within the US, or abroad. I will be travelling to Nashville for a fun weekend girls’ trip with my sisters-in-law. Even though it will be a short trip, I do like to prepare and pack intentionally. I thought that this would be the perfect time to give some summer packing tips:

1) Make a list of the things that you are thinking about bringing. Things to consider – how long will you be away? What will the weather be like? Will the type of clothes you need be the same during the day and at night (are there nice dinners or events you’ll be going to that call for dressier clothes)? Will you spend a lot of time walking and need comfortable shoes? My list consists of the number of outfits I’ll need based on the number of days I’ll be away, shoes and sandals that I can wear with multiple outfits, toiletries, makeup, accessories, sunscreen, and a small laundry bag.

2) Look over that list and cut it by 25%-50% less – I usually lay out everything on my bed before I pack it to see exactly what I want to pack. I find myself putting things back in my closet that I don’t really need. We all tend to overpack; it can be because we don’t know what mood we will be in or we want to have options. Consider packing the same color pallet of clothes so you can mix and match them. I also like layering in the evenings if the weather is cooler. Less is more!

3) Use packing cubes and/or 2.5-gallon Ziploc bags to pack your things. This helps with saving space and organizing things by type (shirts/pants/dresses/intimates/socks/swim) or by outfit. The 2.5-gallon Ziploc bags are great for packing shoes, too. What I like about these bags is that they are transparent, so everything is easy to see, and it saves time when you are looking for what to wear. I like using the smaller Ziploc bags for toiletries that have the potential of spilling.

4) Pack by rolling or file folding your clothes. By rolling or file folding your clothes, you can take full advantage of the space in your suitcase, especially if you use packing cubes. I usually roll my clothes when I pack, and I’ll pack everything by category vs outfit (I sometimes like to mix and match). Also, take advantage of spaces like the inside of your hat (you can pack socks, chargers, and sunglasses inside). For heavier items like jackets or booties, consider wearing them if you are running out of room in your suitcase.

5) Pack by order of use. Try to pack things by the order that you will use them, things that you will use last will go to the bottom, while things you use more will go on top. I usually take my jewelry, makeup, toiletries, extra contacts, and glasses with me in my backpack (just in case I have to check-in luggage and it gets lost).

6) Use travel-size toiletries. I try to pack only the essentials (in travel size if possible). If you’re staying at a hotel, you may be able to take less toiletries since the hotel likely will provide some.

7) Have snacks and entertainment on hand. Whether you are driving, taking a train, or flying, it’s always good to have snacks on hand. There may be delays on the road or at the airport, and snacks that give you energy (nuts, snack bars, fruit, water) will help hold you over. If you’re flying, bring an empty water bottle to fill after you get through security. Bring a good book or download your favorite movies, shows, podcasts, and music. This can come in handy on longer trips or while you’re lounging around on vacation.

8) Prepare your phone for travelling abroad. If you’re travelling abroad, make sure your phone works internationally, and for longer trips, consider purchasing an international sim card. Also, remember to bring adapters and a phone charger.

9) IDs, phone, wallet, keys (the essentials!). As long as you have these items, if you happen to forget something, you can likely purchase it at your destination.

I hope that you find these tips helpful.

Wishing everyone a wonderful summer filled with travel and fun!