My Top Tip for Efficient Packing - Packing Cubes!

There are all kinds of tips out there for becoming an efficient packer - maybe I'll recap some of those next week - but today, I wanted to talk about my absolute favorite packing tip: PACKING CUBES! If you haven't heard of them, they are exactly what they sound like. They are little mini suitcases to go inside of your big suitcase.

I know some people like to bring a trash bag for dirty clothes (which totally works) but I personally like to have a packing cube or two designated for dirty clothes. And honestly, if you're like me and are too cheap to buy real packing cubes, you can use 2 gallon ziplock bags. I used those for YEARS until I recently found some real packing cubes on sale at TJ Maxx. By putting dirty clothes in a cube or bag, it keep the rest of your clothes fresh and keeps the dirty clothes nice and compact.

Being able to compartmentalize your clothes is a game changer, especially if you are hotel hopping on your trip. Digging around in the same bag for two weeks can lead to a chaos of clothes, cords and dirty socks - definitely not ideal. By keeping everything separated, you'll be able to keep your clothes and electronics folded, compact and easily-found. This is especially true if you are living out of a backpack. 

Additionally, needing to fit your outfits into a specific cube will help keep you from throwing crumpled clothes back into the main compartment of your suitcase. I've found that loose, unfolded clothes can lead to straining zippers and an epic struggle to close your suitcase. The last thing you want is to bust a seam because your clothes weren't quite compact enough for the flight home. 

I absolutely love my new cubes, but I think I will probably still throw in a few giant zip locks as well. Find what works for you!

If you'd like some help getting organized for your next trip, visit MilesIntoMemoriesTravel.com. 

My Top Packing Tips

Packing is always my least favorite part of any trip. Unfortunately, it's absolutely necessary! I've been on my fair share of trips, and these are my best packing tips:

Pack Staples
I personally am a big fan of relying on basics. That means instead of bringing 6 pairs of shoes, bring just a few pairs that will work with multiple outfits. The same goes with accessories! Bring neutral shoes and accessories and keep the color focused on shirts or dresses. I personally like to bring a good old pair of jeans that I can wear multiple times with different tops. You'll get a lot diverse looks with minimal items! This will help keep your bags light and manageable, while keeping your instagram photos fresh and fun!


Don't Overpack
You may think you are doing yourself a favor by packing extra t-shirts and extra outfits, but generally I find too many choices lead to feeling overwhelmed. You will wind up with a bag that is insanely heavy and your bag will quickly descend into chaos as you rifle through trying to find the perfect top. If you pack specific outfits, you'll save time getting ready for the day and leave more space for souvenirs. Try writing out a packing list and checking each item off as it packs. You'll feel confident knowing you have amazing outfits and everything you'll need!


Don't Panic
Finally, don't worry if you forget something! Honestly, if you have your medications, passport, ID and some money, everything else can be bought once you arrive - unless your destination is somewhere remote. I once lost my entire toiletry kit in Italy and had to replace EVERYTHING. It was actually a bit fun wandering through the store and picking out new shampoo, conditioner, toothbrush and more. You just have to make the best of your situation and remember that you can always buy what you need when you get there!

Different techniques work for different people, and I personally find that having each outfit laid out and packed together makes for an easy, efficient trip! If you'd like help planning for your trip (and even a comprehensive packing list!), I'd love to help. Visit my website at MilesIntoMemoriesTravel.com.