Ease the Pain of Packing

Many great things arrive with spring and one of the best is Spring Break travel. How fun it can be to visit a new place or relax with the familiar and reconnect with family or friends.

Nothing takes the joy out of travel faster than being loaded down with unnecessary stuff. On the contrary, having just what you need for your on-the-road experiences adds to the fun and energy of your adventures.

Having spent years as a “road warrior” and helping many clients prep for travels I’ve learned a lot about packing. Via this newsletter I encourage you to set up your own efficient system for packing and that begins with first “packing on paper.”

Packing on paper has many advantages:

• Saves time: generally you can pack on paper in 15-20 minutes
• Saves space: you will only pack what you need
• Less likely to forget something: check each item off your list as you pack it
• Peace of mind = Priceless!

The #1 reason to pack on paper is that in the unfortunate (& increasing) occurrence that your luggage is lost by the airline, you have a complete list to document the contents of your bag. If you’ve ever had a lost bag and dealt with the turmoil that follows, you will understand the importance of this list. If you’ve never had a lost bag and don’t know what I’m talking about just trust me – having your packing list will ease a very stressful situation.

The attached file (Packing Check List) is logo- free for you to edit, make your own and USE when you are planning for a trip. As you can see, it follows my process which is different from other packing lists. Here is how I approach packing:

First, I list the days of the week that I am traveling and the activity (ies) planned for that day. Beside each day I list my outfit, followed by shoes + accessories. If undistracted, this step will only take 15-20 minutes. As a general rule I will wear pants / bottoms 2x, wear my heaviest shoes on the plane, and pack only 2 more pair of shoes.

If traveling by car certain things go on the trip: i.e., pillow, yoga mat, book on tape, etc.

If going to the beach certain things are noted: bathing suit, sunscreen, water shoes, hat, light-weight long-sleeve shirt, etc.

I’ve listed 5 categories and items underneath those categories for you to edit and customize for you and your family. So, don’t just think about it – take a few minutes and make your list. You will be glad you did!

Ps. The guys reading this newsletter are probably laughing as most I know pack the day of travel while they are dressing to depart. It’s just not that simple for us girls….list or no list – packing for a trip is ALL ABOUT THE SHOES!