Travel

Travel like a pro

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Whether it’s business travel, a family road trip or a romantic getaway, travel is an opportunity for new experiences. While you may be counting down the days to your next trip—you may also dread the idea of packing. There’s no need to dread packing.

Take a look at some tips experienced travelers share to make packing easier:

Make packing lists.
This helps eliminate the last minute panic of throwing things in the suitcase because you have forgotten what you packed. Print it out a week ahead of time so you have time to adjust the list and consider what you’ll really need for your trip. If you’re traveling with the family—very family should have their own list.

Multipurpose clothing.
Check the weather for your destination so you pack appropriately for the forecast. Choose items that can serve more than one purpose. Also, pack one outfit, just in case the weather goes awry.

Pack toiletries strategically.
Only bring travel sizes of toiletries. Then leave them behind to open up luggage space for mementos. To avoid luggage spills and explosions, place toiletries in plastic bags.

Prevent wrinkling. To prevent wrinkles on delicate items, try wrapping them around soft, bulky items. For example, wrap a blouse or cotton pants around a sweatshirt. Use a rolling method for packing clothes to save space and prevent wrinkles.

Utilize odd-shaped items.
Shoes take up a ton of luggage space, so strive to select the fewest pairs you’ll need and wear the bulkiest ones while traveling. Place shoes along the sides or bottom to strengthen the bag and then stash items inside to maximize space (like socks, nylons and deodorant). Don’t forget plastic bags.

Plastic bags are the most versatile things you can take on a trip. Whether you need a bag for bringing toys down to the pool, a place to put dirty clothes, or something to place that soggy swimsuit in before you check out of the hotel, plastic bags are your secret weapon.

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