My Guide to a Seamless Packing and Travel Experience
As much as I love traveling, packing is by far my least favorite part! Regardless of how many trips you’ve taken, packing for a vacation can still feel overwhelming. If spring break travel is on your horizon, now is the time to start booking flights, making reservations, and gathering your must-have travel essentials. Throughout my professional career, I traveled frequently and have curated quite the list of packing hacks, travel tips, and must-have essentials that make every trip run smoothly. Whether you’re heading to the beach or hitting the slopes this spring break, these travel tips and packing essentials will help you pack efficiently and stress-free. Now, let’s get into it… bon voyage!
To shop your favorites, simply click the item on the graphics below! For more travel essentials, scroll to the “shop the post” section at the bottom of this blog or check out Amazon Storefront! As always, make sure to subscribe to my newsletter and follow me on Instagram for more content.
The Golden Rule of Packing: Play It Safe!
Risk averse or not, you should always play it safe and avoid the potential heartache (and headache) of lost valuables in a checked bag. I never check my jewelry or medication, and instead keep these items in my carry-on. This pill box is my go-to, but a folding case or labeled pill pouches work well if you’re tight on space. I’ve used a jewelry case similar to this one for years and love the functionality of the clear compartments.
Jewelry: Leave the Valuables at Home
Speaking of jewelry, when it comes to traveling I HIGHLY recommend packing pieces that are:
- Not of Great Value: Avoid bringing jewelry with significant monetary or sentimental value. I personally travel with this Amazon wedding ring for peace of mind—it’s under $45 and doesn’t hold the sentimental value of a traditional ring (I also have the bands)!
- Versatile – Save space by packing multi-purpose pieces that pair effortlessly with different outfits… think classic gold earrings, faux diamond studs, dainty layering necklaces, etc.
The Key to Toiletries
I’m a big fan of packing lists, so when it comes to toiletries, I make a list of the products I’ll need for morning, evening, and everything in between. I’ve seriously had the same toiletry kits for 15+ years and they’ve never steered me wrong. I use the large bag for skincare, shower products, etc., and the medium bag for makeup! I also have to note these amazing bottle covers for leak prevention! Psst… my go-to skincare brand has an entire travel-size section!
Carry-On: Keep It Light & Organized
I try to keep my carry-on essentials to a minimum, but a few items always make the cut. Just to name a few: travel-size lotion, hand sanitizer, a mini brush, my portable charger, and a few lens wipes. I’ve also found that a clear pouch is perfect for keeping small essentials such as chapstick and hair ties organized and readily available. Honorable mention? A cozy wrap to stay warm on the plane!
Maximizing Your Suitcase Space
Save space in your suitcase with vacuum-seal bags (perfect for compressing bulky clothing) or packing cubes. I personally love this hanging packing cube for unpacking ease. Tiffy Tip! I take photos of each outfit before packing and store them in the same cube for ease throughout the trip! Also, (especially in the event of connecting flights) don’t forget your Apple AirTag for added peace of mind!
Refresh & Repurpose
I’m a proud outfit repeater, especially when traveling! For the sake of space, it’s always smart to pack pieces that can be styled various ways and repurposed throughout the trip. To keep your clothes fresh between wears, tuck a natural fragrance bag into your suitcase and pack a fabric freshener spray for a quick refresh. If you have extra room, I highly recommend this travel steamer. It’s a game changer for keeping outfits wrinkle-free!
Find Luggage You Love
The right luggage can make or break your packing experience. I’ve been a loyal fan of TUMI luggage for years, but there are many other high-quality, functional luggage brands. Here are a few trusted brands:
- Briggs & Riley – my daughter loves this expandable suitcase!
- Away
- Beis
- Halfday Travel
- Samsonite – great price points!
- Paravel
Nordstrom Rack – great options at great prices!
Tiffy’s Tips
I could share travel and packing tips for hours, but here are a few more that I thought I would make a quick note of!
- Take pictures of the items in your suitcase. In the event your luggage is lost or damaged, having a visual record of the items in your bag makes it easier to file a claim with the airline.
- Packing list. Before packing, I make note of high and low temperatures for each day, as well as a daytime and evening itinerary. This makes it easier to pack seasonally appropriate looks for each day.
- Luggage markers. While luggage tags might be a given for most of us, I highly recommend selecting one with a vibrant color or pattern. It makes it easier to identify your bag amid a sea of suitcases. Another option is tying a bright colored ribbon somewhere on the luggage.
- Dress for the occasion. I am all about comfort when traveling. I’ve added many great travel leisurewear options to my Amazon storefront. I also recommend pieces from Varley and Spanx!
- Keep it organized. I love organizational tools. A few great places to shop: Mark & Graham, The Container Store, Leatherology, Truffle, CALPAK, and Amazon.
- Be kind. This is less of a travel tip, but more of a friendly reminder to be patient with airline staff!
COMMENTS