Tips From Tonia – March 2024

Travel season is going to be upon us so I thought for this month’s “Tips from Tonia” I would focus on some easy tips for packing. Whether you are planning to go somewhere on spring break, a girls’ trip, or any other upcoming travel these are great tips to keep in mind.

Packing for a trip, especially in spring when the weather can be variable, requires some thoughtful planning to ensure you have everything you need without overpacking. Here are some tips for efficient spring packing and organizing:

1. Check the Weather Forecast: Spring weather can be unpredictable, so check the forecast for your destination to pack accordingly. Include layers that can be easily added or removed.
2. Make a Packing List: Create a checklist of items you’ll need for your trip. Categorize items by clothing, toiletries, electronics, etc. This helps ensure you don’t forget anything important.
3. Create a Custom Packing List: Having a check list when packing for a trip will help to ensure everything gets packed & that you don’t forget anything. Print an extra copy to include inside your luggage, so that when it comes time to head home, you have a checklist to make sure you don’t leave anything behind. They have great apps (this one for mobile) or websites online such as this custom packing list that can be saved by trip, so you can have a reference of what to pack if you travel to the same destination later on. If you need ideas on what you should pack, check out Alicia Wood Lifestyle’s blog here where she has many great lists for different destinations.
4. Pack Versatile Clothing: Choose clothing items that can be mixed and matched to create different outfits. Lightweight layers, such as cardigans or jackets, are ideal for spring.
5. Roll Your Clothes: Rolling clothes instead of folding them can save space and help prevent wrinkles. This technique also makes it easier to see what you’ve packed in your suitcase.
6. Use Packing Cubes or Compression Bags: Packing cubes can help you organize your clothes and maximize space in your suitcase. Compression bags are also great for saving space, especially for bulkier items like jackets or sweaters.
7. Pack Travel-sized Toiletries: Toiletries can take up a lot of space in your luggage, so opt for travel-sized containers or purchase toiletries at your destination if possible.
8. Limit Shoes: Shoes can be heavy and take up a lot of space. Try to limit yourself to a few pairs of versatile shoes that can be worn with multiple outfits.
9. Bring a Daypack or Tote Bag: A small daypack or tote bag can be useful for carrying essentials during day trips or excursions.
10. Pack Essentials in Your Carry-On: In case your checked luggage gets lost or delayed, pack essential items such as medication, a change of clothes, and toiletries in your carry-on bag.
11. Leave Room for Souvenirs: If you anticipate buying souvenirs or gifts during your trip, leave some space in your suitcase or consider packing a foldable duffel bag for extra items on the return journey.
12. Don’t Forget Travel Documents: Make sure you have all necessary travel documents, such as passports, visas, travel insurance, and flight/train tickets, in a secure and easily accessible place.
13. Consider Digital Copies: Take photos or scan important documents like your passport and itinerary and store them securely online or in a cloud service as a backup.
14. Pack Chargers and Adapters: Don’t forget to pack chargers for your electronic devices and any necessary adapters or converters for international travel.
15. Label Your Luggage: Attach luggage tags with your contact information to your bags to help ensure they find their way back to you if lost.