When it comes to packing bags for your next getaway everyone has different methods. With current restrictions on air travel and finding the best way to maximize your space, packing can leave anyone a bit stressed. Let ResortsandLodges relieve some of the worry and help you maximize your space, so you can worry about having the best possible vacation.
Before you pack - Before you break out the luggage it's time for everyone's favorite activity, research. As soon as you pick your destination then research the weather forecast, your activities, specific locations, general maps and basically try to look into anything that will influence what you may bring. In addition to helping you find the correct items, this research can help you get a lay of the land. Check out local maps near your resort or lodge, as well as maps of where your activities will be taking place. You may even consider buying a physical map of the area just in case your technology fails. Another thing to consider and look into is the formality of the events you will be attending. This may require you to save extra room or add a piece of luggage. USA Today recommends to check with the TSA. This is a valuable suggestions because they will dictate what you can and can't bring with you if you choose air travel. Going into your vacation prepared will maximize your time so you can enjoy what you’re doing instead of worrying about what you missed.
Make a List - Coming to us from our friends at CNN and in our opinion the most important thing to do in the packing process, making a list of items to pack. You can throw together a spreadsheet, scribble it on a pad or our favorite, using a phone app built to help you choose all the appropriate items. Packing Pro is an app that takes your inputs and helps you build a useful list of essential items. Make sure to give yourself plenty of time before your trip to make the list. In doing this you can buy any needed items and you’ll most likely miss items if you are rushed and working with a short deadline.
Luggage - When your list is complete is time to find the appropriate luggage for your possessions. Depending on your trip you're going to need different bags for where you are going. Typically a backpack, tote or small luggage will be your carry on (as mentioned check with TSA). If you are in the market for a new back pack choose one that the entire front zips. This gives you the ability to get at your items without unpacking your bag. Also gauge if you will need a tote or backpack for your activities when you arrive. You don’t want to stuck buying an overpriced pack or bag on the fly. In addition if your trip is longer than a couple days you’ll need more luggage. Be sure to see if and how much your airline charges for an extra bag.
Packing - After you compile your list, take a note from RickSteves.com and lay out all of your potential items on the floor. Doing this ensures you gain a solid perspective on how much room you’ll need or how much you need to subtract to fit into your bags. Try to figure out what items you absolutely need then work backwards. Try to pick clothing items that you can use in multiple settings, you can always use the laundry service that most hotels have. Good ideas for packing up clothes are rolling them up, going with a vacuum sealed travel bags, travel envelopes and travel cubes. Make sure to leave extra room in your bags for souvenirs and cool items you are bound to pick up along the way.
Another way to save space is packing undergarment you can throw away as you use them. Its also useful to pack all of your luggage in layers. Keep shirts, pants, undergarments and random items in separate layers, making it easier to search at the airport and it keeps you organized on the fly. When it comes to what personal item to bring and which carry on items to pack, ít’s quite simple. Choose anything of value or that you will need easy access to. Its wise to check with the TSA to see which personal items are acceptable. If something is of high value, you may want to consider leaving it at home.
Everyone wants to minimize issues while on vacation. Proper planning can help streamline the parts of the trip you’re in the most control of. Pack as light as you can, while not forgetting any items that will improve your experience. Your friends at ResortsandLodges wish you happy, safe and organized traveling.