With better weather rolling in and more people going out, it’s time for vacation season! Whether you’re leaving for a few days or a whole month, you’ll need to bring some things. The only question is: What do I pack and how much of it? For those who bring everything and the kitchen sink, let’s renew the way you pack!
What are the benefits of Packing Light?
- Less money spent. You don’t have to pay for a checked bag if you don’t bring one at all!
- Less to lug. Without all the baggage, your hands will be freer to carry other things like a delicious coffee or a copy of Rochester Women Magazine!
- Less is more. When you aren’t spending time and energy repacking the 12 outfits that you brought for your three-day trip, you can spend more time and energy actually enjoying your vacation!
Tips for Packing Light
- Don’t fall into the “just in case” trap. Rule of thumb: If you haven’t used it in three months, you likely won’t suddenly start using it on your weekend trip. If you can go a few days without it, leave it. First-aid and emergency items? Bring a couple to ease your mind, but don’t bring the whole box of bandages. If you need more, you can always buy more when you arrive at your destination.
- Ditch the chunky wallet. If you’re the type who keeps every single coupon, punch card and receipt in your purse, stop! Get a small wallet just for traveling. Fill it with your bare essentials and only your bare essentials: ID, credit card and some cash.
- Use a smaller bag/suitcase. The less space to fill, the less you’ll take. This is also a money-saving tip. The less space you have, the less you’ll shop!
- Stick to a packing list. If you go grocery shopping without a list, you’ll end up buying more of what you don’t need. It’s the same with packing. Without a list, you’ll start throwing everything from your bathroom drawers into your suitcase. Make a list and stick to it!
- Bring travel-sized everything. You won’t use an entire bottle of shampoo in a week. Pour those liquids out into travel-sized containers. Have an electric toothbrush? Leave it and the wall charger at home. Opt for a travel-friendly battery-operated electric toothbrush. Deflatable pillows, zip-away blankets, collapsible water bottles—the list goes on. You can find travel-friendly versions of almost everything!
Traveling Light Packing List
ESSENTIALS:
- Photo ID
- Passport
- Boarding Pass
- Credit Cards
- Health Insurance Card
ELECTRONICS:
- Travel Charger
- Headphones
- Portable Power Bank
- Computer & Charger
SHOES:
- Walking & Hiking
- Dress
- Flats & Sandals
BEAUTY:
- Makeup
- Shampoo & Conditioner
- Sleep Mask
- Body & Face Lotion
- Hair Ties & Brush
CLOTHING:
- Bras, Underwear & Socks
- Exercise Clothing
- Jackets & Sweaters
- T-shirts
- Long-sleeve Tops
- Swimsuit
- Pajamas & Robe
- Dress
- Pants & Shorts
- Sunglasses
