How to Pack Efficiently for a Trip

Going on vacation sounds like a blast until you start trying to cram all of your belongings into a carry-on that seems to get smaller and smaller each time you use it. The anxiety of figuring out what to pack and exactly how to get it into your suitcase can be overwhelming. Add to that the stress of packing for the rest of your family members and your pre-getaway excitement is sure to fizzle fast.

We've put together our organizational expertise to bring you the best methods that will have you packing like a pro in no time. In this post, we'll be sharing seven easy tips and our favorite travel accessories to help you pack efficiently for your next trip. Let's get to it!

How to Pack Efficiently for a Trip

1. Make a List

Before you even begin packing, create a list of what needs to go in your suitcase. Don't feel pressured to include items that won't be used - only bring the necessities. Keep the list handy and check off each item as it is packed into your bag so nothing is forgotten. If there's extra space, you can always add a few surprises when you are ready to go.

2. Think in Outfits

When packing clothing, think of outfits and plan accordingly. This way you won't forget any necessary pieces and can focus on what will be worn together instead of taking along too many items that may never make it out of your suitcase.

One of our favorite accessories for planning and packing outfits is to use packing cubes. Not only do packing cubes allow you to save space, but they are a great way to help you stay organized.

We recommend using larger packing cubes to pack your outfits together. This means that you can group several outfits into 1-2 packing cubes, depending on the length of your trip.

Pro tip: If you plan to do laundry on the road, pack some liquidless laundry detergent - no really! These laundry detergent sheets take up no space at all and simply dissolve in water, taking the place of buying liquid detergent.

3. Roll - Don't Fold

Rolling your clothes instead of folding them is the key to maximizing space in your bag. Not only will this save room, but it also helps reduce wrinkling for the items that need to stay neat throughout travel. It's also a good idea to have a small packing cube for socks and other small items. Alternatively, you can stuff them into spare shoes or in corners of your luggage to help conserve room.

4. Invest in a Toiletry Bag

If your toiletries tend to take up a lot of room in your suitcase, then investing in a compact toiletry bag is the perfect solution. This hanging toiletry bag is perfect for staying in small spaces, especially if you're sharing the space with other people. It has a hook to hang up on the back of the closet or bathroom door, keeping it out of the way. Just transfer it to the bathroom when it's your turn!

5. Use Travel Bottles

Travel bottles are carry-on size and allow you to decant your favorite shampoo, conditioner, face wash, and body wash. This saves you money on buying overpriced travel-size toiletries that you probably don’t even like!

6. Utilize a Cord Organizer

This is one accessory not everyone thinks of, but can be a real lifesaver when you're on the road, especially when traveling with kids. Tablets, cell phones, Kindles, external batteries, Bluetooth speakers, and laptops all have cords. Having a cord organizer will help prevent them from getting tangled or lost.

7. Have a Charging Station

When traveling with your family, having a charging station makes it SO much easier to just have one area where you charge all your devices. One plug is needed and the rest just goes into the charging station. This way, everyone will know exactly where their device is when they need to be charged.

Another accessory you may want to consider bringing with you is a reusable water bottle like this one which will allow you to save money on buying drinks. We also love these wipes for removing makeup or freshening up when showers are not available.

Traveling doesn't have to be a burden and with some preparation, packing can actually be a total breeze. By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to having an organized suitcase that will make all of your vacations stress-free.