There are hacks to packing on every blog out there. My hack is…don’t pack it. Let’s face it: you probably only go for a week or two. Can’t you live without it for that long? I should think so. I know you need to be IG-worthy, but chances are the people seeing the pics are focused on the destination, so make it the star of the pics. Your friends have all seen your fancy outfits and know you can turn heads with fancy shoes. It is time to relax and release the need to meet expectations.

The item you want to spend some money on is your luggage. The lighter it is, the easier it is to heft up and down. When you’re only buying one suitcase, then you can splurge. That’s what I said, “one”. One suitcase as a carry-on and one bag, either shopping or backpack, and that’s all. You have to try it before you turn your heels up at me. You research the suitcase that will best meet your needs and wallet. The shoulder bag is for bouncing around on the trip as a day bag. Then, you can put your daily essentials in one bag and have room for new essentials. 

Now that you have the bags sorted let’s get to packing. Could you pack your outfits so they are all interchangeable and match your two pairs of shoes? You can do it. It’s like a puzzle..fun, right? Now, onto the toiletries. This is going to be a bit harder for you. ONLY pack what you can’t buy when you get there. People worldwide brush their teeth (take a travel size to freshen along the way, please), wash their bodies, and wash their hair. I know you know this, but it bears saying out loud. You can buy it all when you get there and leave it when you leave. I guarantee you have packed all your facial rituals for a trip and not used it. The things you must have can go in smaller sizes. I love using a contact lens case for items used in moderation. Then, when you leave items behind, it’s like an extra tip for those on the receiving end.  

What are some of my must-haves when packing for any trip? 

– Collapsable lightweight water bottle. 

– Vitamin C 1000mg sugar-free tablets. Just to be sure I’m fresh every morning, no matter how much fun the night before was. 

– A hat/visor. I prefer a visor in hot climates so my head can breathe and a hat in cold temperatures. The best are the ones that you can fold up, and they bounce right back.

– Australian Gold lip balm and Aquaphor lip repair. Yes, it has to be those brands. No funky taste in your mouth, and Aquaphor can be used for so many other things, i.e., chafing, blisters, flyaway hair, dry hands, prolonging your fragrance, and makeup remover. 

– If going out of the country, a no foreign transaction fee credit card. Those fees will add up. 

That is a short list of must-haves. 

Notice I have not said anything about workout clothing. Unless you are hardcore about getting that workout in, leave it behind and give yourself a rest. I’m sure your planned activities will match your activity level for moving about. 

Any trip you go on is an adventure, and that’s the fun of it. Adventures are unusual and exciting, so have fun with them.