Every single time I travel, it seems like I forget one thing. This time I forgot my Priority Pass. More about that on a later post.
I decided to make a ‘master’ packing list because it seems like I make a new last minute packing list every. single. time. when most of the items I take are the same things. By creating this cute packing list template, my aim is to save my packing procrastination. And make life a little easier. Finishing packing at 3am to wake up at 5:00 to catch a 9am is not, I repeat, NOT fun!
Since I created my list of things to pack for a vacation and gave it a few test runs, I can confirm packing is easier. Besides knowing what to pack, here’s a few more tips to get it all done without the stress.
1. 2 weeks before trip: know what you want to take
Is your favorite dress in the laundry? Do you need to dig out the bikinis or hiking gear from the back of the closet? Do you need something dry cleaned before leaving. Whatever it may be, some items need a little time to prep. Know what they are and how long it will take. Plan ahead!
2. 1 week before trip: Keep an open suitcase in the corner of your room
When our trip gets close I’m sure we all have items that we think ‘oh I’m gonna take that on the trip!’. Annnnd we forget it about it, get to our destination and kick ourself in the pants for forgetting. If you have ‘must take’ vibes from an item, put it in the suitcase. Think about the packing part later. The last few trips I’m happy to report I forget nothing when I do this.
3. 1 week before trip: Call to arrange for suitcase pick-up
I tried this once and I am now forever hooked. One of my credit card’s benefits is being able to send 2 pieces of luggage to the airport for free. If your card has benefits like this, use it! Going to the airport with only a carry-on is a very good feeling. The company I use requires the pick up reservation to be 7 days before a trip. The suitcase pick up cut off is 3 days before a trip.
4. 4 days before trip: Pack that suitcase
Grab your copy of the printable travel checklist and check it off as you pack your goods. I use packing cubes to separate clothes depending on the trip. Sometimes I’ll separate them by each outfit, and other times it will be by item like shirts, pants, etc.
5. The night before your trip: Pack your carry-on
I pack this the very last as most of the stuff I throw in my carry-on are items I use almost every day. Make sure all your electronics are charged, and you got the necessary cables. Check the carryon packing checklist part of the pdf for what I pack. When all hell breaks loose remember you can survive any trip with three items. A passport, wallet, and a cellphone. Everything else can be bought..
There ya go! You should be all packed up and ready to go on your holiday. Has this checklist been helpful to you? I’d love to hear from you! Let me know by leaving a comment, and be sure to save this for later if you have a trip coming up. Bon voyage!
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