How to pack for a trip

Packing is no small feat, even for the most savvy travelers. Most people carry too much and end up not even using it. half. To avoid the surpluses and waste of time that go with it, here is a guide to help you pack your bags more easily !

Make a list of what you will need

First of all, it is important to optimize the place and make a list of what you will really need. All the extra parts are unnecessary, cumbersome and will make you no more wasting time before and during your trip.

The secret to packing well is adapting a checklist to your travel plan. You will be able then refine it as you go.

Here is a list that you can use for a week-long trip : 

Clothes :

• 4 to 5 tops, the type depending on the weather and the reason for the trip ;
• 3 pants, the type will also depend on the weather and the reason for the trip ;
• 1 semi-formal outfit, such as a dress or suit ;
• 7 pairs of underwear ;
• 2 sets of sportswear ;
• 2 sets of pajamas or other sleepwear ;
• 1 light packable jacket or other outdoor clothing, suitable for the climate ;
• 1 foldable rain jacket. 

Accessoires :

• 3 pairs of shoes : a dressy pair, elegant sneakers that can be used workout and walking shoes, and flip flops for your bedroom hotel, swimming pool or spa ;
• 2 bags : a tote or backpack and a smaller shoulder bag or clutch for your evenings ;
• sunglasses ;
• jewelry, if necessary.

Choose a storage method

These tips will help ensure that your clothes don’t get creased and that you will have enough space for your memories.

Fold your clothes into rolls

This method involves rolling your clothes tightly to avoid creases. Make sure the rolls are very compact. You can then place them side by side side in your suitcase, then line them up. This method not only reduces (or to avoid) wrinkles, but also to increase the amount of clothing that can be stored in your bag.

Use suitcase organizers

These small bags allow you to organize your clothes into compartments. These cubes zippered storage come in all shapes and sizes. They You provide quick access to all the items you will need during your travel.

You can use compression bags or cubes to reduce the volume of your clothing up to 80%. This is especially handy for bulky items like sweaters and jackets. Pouches are perfect for keeping clothes dressed nicely lined up.

Choose the right suitcase

• Two or four wheels : Bags with two wheels require you to drag them behind you, which can be a real hassle. Four-wheeled bags, too called “spinners”, rotate 360 ​​degrees and are easier to maneuver. We can even roll them when they are in an upright position. But their design means the wheels are more susceptible to damage.
• Frequent Travelers or Occasional Travelers : Travelers who are on the road several times a month need strong luggage that lasts in the time. However, it should be noted that the more resistant a suitcase is, the more it is Dear. If you only travel occasionally, you can settle for a mid-range bag.
• Suitcase with a soft shell or a hard shell : the rigid suitcases are aesthetically more elegant. They also offer better protection than soft bags. and are less susceptible to wear. It will also limit the amount of items you can put in – an advantage if you tend to put too much in.

The good side of soft bags : they tend to be light and have outer pockets. Soft bags are also a plus if you like fit as many things as possible in a bag.

The essentials according to your destination

Essentials for the beach

• A hat ;
• sunscreen ;
• a beach towe l;
• a water sprayer ;
• a book or magazine.

In most cases, you can easily find essential items like sunscreen or an extra swimsuit on site. Many hotels lend to their customers beach toys, beach towels, snorkeling equipment with snorkel and buoys.

Essentials for skiing

• Waterproof ski suit ;
• Warm and breathable thermal t-shirt (1st layer) ;
• a breathable fleece jacket (2nd layer) ;
• a ski mask or sunglasses (preferably polarized) ;
• under thermal pants or tights ;
• ski gloves or mittens (under-gloves if very chilly) ;
• hat, headband, earmuffs ;
• neck warmer or balaclava;
• ski socks (bring several pairs);
• lip balm;
• sunscreen.

For a skiing holiday, it is necessary to provide enough elements to protect against the cold.

Small tip : to save space, you can take ups and downs in Thinsulate. It is a light and thin material that protects from the cold.

Essentials for cruises

A cruise is a complicated trip to prepare because your wardrobe must cover many occasions. You may need casual clothes for day trips and dressier clothes for dinners on board. It may also be that you make stops in different climates.

Yasmine Besbes