4 Tips for Packing | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Lifestyle

4 Tips for Packing

If you tend to overpack, these tips are for you.

11
4 Tips for Packing
Shutterstock

Let's face it -- no one likes packing. Whether it be for trips that last three days, five days or a week, it's something that we all put off until the last minute and we're just shoving as many things into our suitcase as possible.

But, it's something that we inevitably have to do, and sometimes, it seems you can't fit everything you want into that suitcase, even though you know that there is so much room in it. But, after going through everything, you realize you've overpacked. Again.

But, how do you choose what stays and what goes? And there isn't just clothes, there's toiletries, too! Where is that gonna go in all of this? Well, lucky for you, here are some tips on packing for your trip! (Trust me, I am an overpacker myself, and these tips have helped immensely.)

1. Make a list of things that you actually need

Lists are a lifesaver for me when it comes to packing. I have a list for everything, even down to my carry-on bag. This way, I can make sure that I don't overpack since I tend to do that more times than not (Don't we all?). I also tend to forget the simplest things, so having a list helps with that. I even have a list for which outfits I plan to wear for each of the days I'm on a trip, and if I bring something like extra shirts, I don't do more than two or three.

2. Rolling technique

This tip works really well with tops, since I tend to lay my shorts or jeans flat along the bottom of my suitcase. This also creates a lot more room, which is nice when traveling with bulky items like jackets. Also, everything won't be cramped together, especially if you're traveling with a smaller suitcase.

3. Travel size toiletries

Travel size toiletries are the bomb dot com. I usually bring travel size lotion, perfume, Q-Tips, and deodorant. There are also these packs of empty travel bottles at Wal-Mart and Target that are really cheap, and it's yet another way to make room in your suitcase. I love these bottles because you can put your favorite shampoo, conditioner and body wash inside, and it lasts for more than one use. Plus, the bag it comes in is resealable, so you can use it multiple times and you don't have to worry about it exploding everywhere on the plane.

4. Being organized with carry-on luggage

It may sound a little cliché, but, when it comes to your carry-on luggage, there needs to be a little organization. Especially if you're bringing an electronic that you have to take out of it, like a laptop or a tablet. You don't want to have everything in your carry-on fall out of your luggage as you're going through TSA. That's embarrassing. So, just make sure everything is organized, that way, it'll make traveling just a bit easier.

Happy traveling!


Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Entertainment

15 Times Michael Scott's Life Was Worse Than Your Life

Because have you ever had to endure grilling your foot on a George Foreman?

1522
Michael Scott
NBC

Most of the time, the world's (self-proclaimed) greatest boss is just that, the greatest. I mean, come on, he's Michael Freakin' Scott after all! But every once in a while, his life hits a bit of a speed bump. (or he actually hits Meredith...) So if you personally are struggling through a hard time, you know what they say: misery loves company! Here are 15 times Michael Scott's life was worse than your life:

Keep Reading...Show less
Featured

12 Midnight NYE: Fun Ideas!

This isn't just for the single Pringles out there either, folks

16343
Friends celebrating the New Years!
StableDiffusion

When the clock strikes twelve midnight on New Year's Eve, do you ever find yourself lost regarding what to do during that big moment? It's a very important moment. It is the first moment of the New Year, doesn't it seem like you should be doing something grand, something meaningful, something spontaneous? Sure, many decide to spend the moment on the lips of another, but what good is that? Take a look at these other suggestions on how to ring in the New Year that are much more spectacular and exciting than a simple little kiss.

Keep Reading...Show less
piano
Digital Trends

I am very serious about the Christmas season. It's one of my favorite things, and I love it all from gift-giving to baking to the decorations, but I especially love Christmas music. Here are 11 songs you should consider adding to your Christmas playlists.

Keep Reading...Show less
campus
CampusExplorer

New year, new semester, not the same old thing. This semester will be a semester to redeem all the mistakes made in the previous five months.

1. I will wake up (sorta) on time for class.

Let's face it, last semester you woke up with enough time to brush your teeth and get to class and even then you were about 10 minutes late and rollin' in with some pretty unfortunate bed head. This semester we will set our alarms, wake up with time to get ready, and get to class on time!

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

The 5 Painfully True Stages Of Camping Out At The Library

For those long nights that turn into mornings when the struggle is real.

3427
woman reading a book while sitting on black leather 3-seat couch
Photo by Seven Shooter on Unsplash

And so it begins.

1. Walk in motivated and ready to rock

Camping out at the library is not for the faint of heart. You need to go in as a warrior. You usually have brought supplies (laptop, chargers, and textbooks) and sustenance (water, snacks, and blanket/sweatpants) since the battle will be for an undetermined length of time. Perhaps it is one assignment or perhaps it's four. You are motivated and prepared; you don’t doubt the assignment(s) will take time, but you know it couldn’t be that long.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments