Summer travel season is in full swing and if you’re jetting (or driving) off with your family this summer you know how stressful packing and preparing can be.
Between suitcase weight limits, trunk limitations and a host of other roadblocks to being able to pack everything you need – it can all be really exhausting.
While there are a ton of packing tips I could give you, today I wanted to just share some of my favorite travel must haves that help me keep everything organized, ready and prepared for whatever method of traveling I’m doing.
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My biggest packing hack is to separate the kids’ clothes into these plastic bags. I know these are not environmentally friendly and I really try to be conscious of that but this is one area where the organization saves my sanity while traveling and it’s worth it. I divide entire outfits including shorts, shirt, socks, underwear into one bag and then label the kid’s name and day of the week they will wear that. I then accordion file them into the suitcase so everything fits. During the trip they get the outfit and then at the end of the day the entire outfit goes back into that designated bag. This makes re-packing a breeze at the end of your vacation. Best part? You can re-use these bags trip after trip without having to buy new ones.
Just make your life easier and have a scale on hand to weigh your bags before jetting off to the airport. It’s not worth the risk of having to take things out or pay astronomical fees because your hairspray was too heavy. Weigh and then do the tetris of suitcases at home.
Packing cubes are amazing. I love these regular cubes for keeping everything organized and clean. If I have a lot to pack and need to fit more clothes than usual, my go to is these compression cubes. They take up so much less space and are a lifesaver if you are trying to get everything into a carry on. I also love these TSA approved clear cosmetic bags. I can see everything and it’s easy to keep organized on the bathroom counter.
A portable steamer is a must have. When we cruise we have formal nights and there is nothing worse than wrinkled dresses and shirts. This steamer is easy to pack, works really well and I can steam everything on the first day and it’s all ready to go throughout the week.
No matter where you’re traveling there is often a shortage of outlets for the copious amounts of devices we all travel with, especially with kids. This portable outlet ensures everything is connected and charged, especially before we travel back home.
It’s a little thing but this razor works surprisingly well and honestly, sometimes I don’t really know the best way to pack my regular razor. So this comes with a protective case and weighs next to nothing making shaving on vaca a breeze.
I also recommend this wrinkle spray for getting out a few wrinkles in a pinch but also for making sure your clothes don’t smell too musty or stinky after being in a suitcase for too long. Another must on our cruise vacations since we are in tight quarters.
That’s it! Those are my top faves for traveling.
I hope wherever you’re headed this summer you are safe, relaxed, and having the time of your life!
