5 Easy Packing Tips

My preference is to always carry my luggage on to the plane.  I know that my luggage won’t get lost, nor will I have to wait at baggage claim. However, depending on the length of a trip, that’s not always possible. Either way, these packing tips will help make packing a little easier.

1. PACK ONLY WHAT YOU NEED.

I personally suffer from packing “just in case” outfits.  But I’ve come home so many times with unworn clothes that weighed down my luggage.  I’ve gotten good at packing only what I need.  Also try packing clothes that can be mixed and matched so that while you’re wearing the same items, your outfits look different for Instagram.

2. DON’T OVERLOAD YOUR SUITCASE WITH TOILETRIES.

Toiletries only weigh your suitcase down.  Don’t pack full-sized items and only pack the items you need.  I’m guilty of packing stomach & allergy medicines, along with other little odds and ends just in case I need them while abroad.  That’s okay; just don’t overdo it.

3. FIND THE BEST PACKING METHOD FOR YOU.

Some people like rolling their clothes.  Other people lay their clothing out and systematically fold them into one big pile.  Try a few different ways while you’re packing.  There’s no right or wrong way; only right way for you.

4. LEAVE ROOM FOR SOUVENIRS.

This may be difficult, but try to leave a little room in your suitcase for souvenirs.  You don’t want to lug souvenirs onboard your departing flight and depending on what you’ve bought, you won’t be able to (i.e. liquor and some foods).

5. PACK VALUABLES IN YOUR CARRY-ON.

I’m not saying you can’t trust all baggage handlers; but you can’t trust all baggage handlers.  Pack all electronics and valuables in your carry-on. Laptops, cameras, iPads, jewelry, heirlooms, and anything else of value should stay with you at all times.

You have any packing tips?  Please share!

11 Ways to Plan a Successful Road Trip

Road tripping is a fun and economical way to travel for short or long distances, whether you’re traveling solo or with a group.  I’ve been on several road trips both as a child and as an adult and the rules don’t really change with age; just more responsibility!  A successful road trip requires careful planning and while it can be time consuming, it’ll be worth it once you’ve arrived at your final destination.  These tips are guaranteed to ensure a successful road trip.

1. DECIDE WHO’S DRIVING.

I have a love/hate relationship with driving.  While I prefer not to drive normally, I prefer to drive during road trips.  It keeps me occupied and I know we are getting to our destination as quick as possible.  Blame my lead foot and Type A personality.  Seriously, if a friend or family member likes to ‘drive Miss Daisy,’ they probably aren’t the best candidate and on the contrary, if someone is a speed demon, they aren’t the best person to drive either.

It’s also a great idea to decide if drivers will alternate.  Depending on the length of the trip, switching drivers when stopping for gas or every few hours is a good way to break up the driving responsibilities.

2. PLAN YOUR ROUTE.

Do you like driving on highways or taking the scenic route? Will you try to find landmarks along the way?  These are questions to consider when planning your route from point A to point B.

3. ENSURE ROADSIDE SERVICE.

Getting a flat tire or having an accident without the proper coverage would be unfortunate.  Check with your own car insurance before getting any additional insurance offered by rental car companies.  You may already be covered.  Better safe than sorry!

4. BE FLEXIBLE & LEAVE ROOM FOR TRAFFIC.

There’s nothing better than discovering a restaurant or tourist attraction during a road trip.  Leave some flexibility in your schedule to ‘stop and smell the roses’ along the way.  In worst case scenarios, there may be construction or an accident causing traffic to slow.  Allow some time in your plan for unexpected delays.

5. FIGURE OUT REST STOPS AND BOOK HOTELS.

If you plan to stop, make sure you’ve mapped out where your stops will be and if you’ll be staying overnight.  If so, book your hotel ahead of time but if you like risking it, use apps like Hotel Tonight that allow you to book the same day.

6. HAVE LICENSE, INSURANCE AND CAR RENTAL INFO READILY AVAILABLE.

This should go without saying, but be sure to have your license, insurance and car rental information on hand in case you’re stopped by law enforcement.

7. BRING DISTRACTIONS.

Portable DVD players, iPads, games, books and anything else you can think of will be welcomed distractions on your road trip.  It’ll help to pass the time and you won’t find yourself wondering, “Are we there yet?”

8. MAKE A PLAYLIST.

Have your play list ready!  Nothing’s worse than driving to bad music.

9. BUY YOUR FAVORITE SNACKS.

Instead of stopping every time you’re hungry, bring along some of your favorite snacks to tie you over.  Also, bring a bag to put your trash in. Road tripping is no excuse to be gross!

10. ELECTRONIC DEVICE CHARGERS.

If you’re using your phone for GPS, it will die quickly, so bringing a charger is absolutely necessary.  A lot of cars now come equipped with USB outlets, so you may only need the cord.

11. BE A TEAM PLAYER.

Don’t be the annoying person in the group who complains and makes the trip miserable for everyone else.  Have a positive outlook and remember your crowded surroundings are only temporary.

Can you think of any great tips for road trips?  Be sure to comment below!