Do you dread packing? Or wish you could just find a great deal, book it and leave with little time to prepare? Why not keep a bag packed with all your necessities that will just require a few additions before heading out the door? I'm headed to Vegas in just a few days and it, literally, took me 20 minutes to pack for it, and it all fit in a backpack.
There are always going to be items that you take on every trip, so start by making a basic packing list and go from there:
Toiletries
You pretty much use the same toiletries time and time again, so purchase some travel-sizes of your favorites and keep them packed. Minimus is a great place to get health and beauty products in tiny sizes that are perfect for your carry-on or ask for sample sizes when you go buy your cosmetics at Sephora, Ulta, or other makeup retailers.
When packing makeup, instead of waiting until you have used it the day you leave, pack items that are nearly empty – but good for one to two weeks more use – and use new ones at home. You can always decant your items into smaller containers, too.
Undergarments
I’ve never gone anywhere without socks and underwear, so I doubt it’s common among the majority of travelers to leave home without them. Purchase a half dozen of each solely to pack your travel bag. This way they’re always in there and you don’t get to your destination and have to go shopping for these important items. Look for clothing made of soy or bamboo, as they will be odor-resistant, moisture-wicking and quick-drying.
You pretty much use the same toiletries time and time again, so purchase some travel-sizes of your favorites and keep them packed. Minimus is a great place to get health and beauty products in tiny sizes that are perfect for your carry-on or ask for sample sizes when you go buy your cosmetics at Sephora, Ulta, or other makeup retailers.
When packing makeup, instead of waiting until you have used it the day you leave, pack items that are nearly empty – but good for one to two weeks more use – and use new ones at home. You can always decant your items into smaller containers, too.
Undergarments
I’ve never gone anywhere without socks and underwear, so I doubt it’s common among the majority of travelers to leave home without them. Purchase a half dozen of each solely to pack your travel bag. This way they’re always in there and you don’t get to your destination and have to go shopping for these important items. Look for clothing made of soy or bamboo, as they will be odor-resistant, moisture-wicking and quick-drying.
Charger for electronics
Everyone travels with at least a few electronics. Be it an iPod, laptop, mobile phone or an eBook reader, you’re going to need to charge it at some point in your trip. Look for a multi-charger that can charge all your gadgets with just one cord. This eliminates the last-minute scramble to find all your adapters and the inevitable knotted mass that you find upon making it to your destination.
Convertible layers
You never know what the weather is going to be like when you travel. You could encounter a freak snowstorm, monsoon rains or even a heat wave. I always suggest bringing a fleece or similar pullover and several tanks or t-shirts that can be worn alone or underneath other clothing. When it’s warm, one layer is probably more than enough, but if it’s cold, you’ll be glad you packed that cardigan or sweater.
Packable jacket
This is another item I always pack to be prepared. Maybe it’s 80 degrees and sunny where you’re going, but that doesn’t mean it will stay that way. A lightweight packable jacket is great for repelling rain, keeps your hands free like an umbrella won’t, packs small and can double as an outer layer should it become chilly.
With the essentials in your bag already, you can easily throw in other items that you’ll need at the last minute, like a spare pair of shoes and several tops and bottoms that all go together. Here are some tips on packing light.
What are some of your must-pack travel items?
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