How do I pack for trips?

Written 12/20/2022

Updated 8/14/2023

There are many ways to pack for a trip. I have found these to be helpful, perhaps you will too.

-Pre-packing. A way to avoid overpacking is to pre-pack your checked bag. During this stage, I just throw items into an empty suitcase that I think I might want to take. A few days later, I come back and create outfits from clothes in my suitcase based on activities planned for the trip. The pre-packing stage is my least favorite. It makes my room look so cluttered because I have clothing items all over the place as I plan my outfits.

-Packing 1: Checked Bag. A few days before I leave, I actually pack. For the first time, I purchased some of those airtight vacuum storage bags to save space. The airtight bags were excellent; I don’t know why I haven’t used them before. I highly recommend you get these; they are worth the investment. I also purchased some clear, reusable quart-size bags for toiletries so there are no spills. Please see the photos below with links.

-Packing 2: Carry-On. It's important to remember when packing a carry-on to pack a change of clothes, undergarments, and pj's. I recommend this so you can avoid the horror of lost baggage. Luckily, this has never happened to me, but it is better to be prepared than not. For my carry-on, I got a small case for all my chargers and plugs, such a lifesaver! (Link is also below with the photo.)

-Buying. Every trip I take, I always have to buy a lot of random stuff, such as more chapstick (I can't live without my Burt's Bees), hand lotion for my carry-on, tissues, etc. During my pre-packing and packing stages, I am always reminded of all I need to buy. This is another reason I suggest a pre-packing stage; it will help remind you of items to purchase for your trip. A few other pre-trip purchases to keep in mind are bandaids, Tylenol/Advil, etc., Pepto Bismol (or something similar), and Dramamine or motion sickness medicine. Of course, depending on the type of trip and location, there will be other specific items to purchase, such as bug spray.

As much fun as traveling can be, packing can be a chore. I hope you find these tips helpful. For those of you who enjoy packing, I hope you will find these tips useful as well.

Below are the links in the photos for the items I used.

Check out my store to purchase a handy digital outfit packing checklist!

Stay Peachy,

Eat, Drink, and be Melly