How to Pack Like a Pro
Whenever we travel we like to pack as lightly, organized, and as prepared as possible. You will need a basic packing list for every trip and then you will need items or clothing specific to the type of trip you take. For instance, in Florida it rains so ponchos and extra shoes are a must. On an Alaskan Cruise it can be 70 in one town and in the next it might be snowing. For this we suggest dressing in layers. Also, on most cruises it is fun to participate in a formal night which would require additional clothing too.
Here are some simple steps to keep in mind when packing:
PLAN AHEAD
Know your destination ahead of time. This will help you when shopping. You can find some great stuff on clearance. For example, Target, Kohls, Wal-Mart, and Zulily often have great Disney and Universal character shirts for both adults and kids. In need of a princess dress? Shop after Halloween for the best prices. After Christmas and New Years is the best time to buy formal wear. Look to buy in January for the best prices on women’s and girls’ dresses. The best time to buy swimwear is after Labor Day. The dollar stores are great places to buy ponchos. Ponchos can be very expensive in theme parks.
GATHER SUPPLIES
We use packing cubes and plastic bags to keep outfits together and save room when packing. You will also need a permanent marker, packing cubes, and your clothes. If you are a lists maker, like Daniel, have that handy too.
PACK IN OUTFITS
One thing we always do when travelling is pack outfits together. First you will want to label the bag. We suggest the label “Day One” or the name of the park to where you are travelling that day ex. “Universal Studios”. For our December Universal Orlando trip we will pack everything, and I mean everything, for each day in it’s own gallon size bag. The hairbow, socks, shorts, outfit, and the matching mask (of course) will all go into a gallon size bag. You can then squeeze out all the air and zip it shut. We like the plastic bags with a zipper closure because it helps when squeezing out the air.
Packing in outfits will help anyone in your travel party help get the kids dressed. Even husbands can’t mess this up. JK . We even use baggies for pjs and swimwear.
USE PACKING CUBES
Packing cubes are a good way to keep all your clothes neatly together in a compact space in your suitcases. We take all of our baggies and stack them inside. We use Nothing is worse when travelling than having your luggage lost or taken by someone else. We always mark our luggage with brightly colored ribbon and a fun luggage tag that our family can clearly see from a distance. Some people like to use brightly colored luggage too. Your trip will run smoother and faster when you can just claim your baggage quickly and easily. MAKE YOUR LUGGAGE STAND OUT
We hope that some of our packing hacks can help you stay organized the next time you travel. What are some of your personal packing hacks? Let us know in the comments below. And remember Life is short… Take the trip!
