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Eiffel Tower, Paris

Packing for a trip is certainly a chore, but if done correctly it makes traveling much easier. I have a tendency to over pack – surprise! I’ve brought clothing I never wear and stuff I could not possibly have needed. As an organizer, it’s an area I’ve improved upon and have put together some simple tips on how to pack for a trip:

African Elephants (Babar perhaps?)

Review Security Measures – It is important to know what you can pack in your carry-on luggage and what items are not permitted on the aircraft. Visit the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) website for the latest regulations.

French Polynesia

Invest in Good Luggage – The airlines can be rough with luggage and if yours is old or already damaged, it might not hold up. Nothing would be worse than having your clothing ruined due to bad luggage. I purchased some Tumi luggage over ten years ago when I planned corporate events and traveled a ton. It was worth every penny – today the luggage is in near perfect condition. There are several other great brands that don’t cost as much and hold up nicely. Look for luggage that has wheels – it has been a life saver running to catch a connecting flight. Also, consider luggage that can be used as a carry-on. When selecting a toiletries bag, look for one that has several sections – individually sealed compartments for items such as shampoo, make-up and toothbrushes.

Alaska

Pack it Right – To reduce wrinkling and save space, roll your casual clothes and use the straps inside the suitcase to hold clothes in place. Also, a full suitcase (not over stuffed) helps keep clothing wrinkle-free. For more delicate items such as blouses or blazers, Martha Stewart has some great tips: use a hanging bag and layer garments (pants first, blouse, then jacket). If you don’t have a hanging garment bag, simply overlap items by folding delicate pieces around soft ones like knit sweaters. Try not to fold items any more than you have to. Also, even if you have a toiletries bag, it’s a good idea to put toiletries in individual plastic bags in the event they break or leak. All valuables – including jewelry – should be packed in your carry-on luggage.

Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco

Mix it Up – When traveling with a friend or partner, pack one of your outfits in their bag and vice versa. This will be valuable if one person’s luggage is lost or delayed.

Remember Your Prescriptions – If you are taking prescription medication, you’ll want to bring more than enough for the duration of your trip. It should always go in your carry-on luggage. In case of emergencies, bring an additional prescription form and your doctor’s contact information.

Taj Mahal, India – Jai Ho!

Copy Important Documents – Always have your itinerary, IDs, passports, visas, airline tickets and hotel/rental car confirmation numbers/coupons on you at all times. Include a packing list (all items in your luggage) in your carry-on bag. It’s always a good idea to email yourself electronic copies. A password-protected itinerary on Google Docs is one way to keep the information safe and share it with family in case of emergency. Yes, this seems redundant, but when traveling you want to make sure you can access your information no matter what happens.

Organize your Gadgets – Your phone and camera should be fully charged. It’s also a good idea to empty your camera’s memory card. All power cords, chargers and extra batteries should be packed in your carry-on. If traveling aboard, purchase Tumi’s Electronic Adapter that work in 150 countries.

Mark your Luggage – To distinguish your black luggage from all the others at the baggage claim, tie a bright ribbons onto the handles (I have a hot pink one), apply large stickers with your initials, or get one of these fun luggage tags from See Jane Work. My favorite is “careful – my shoes are inside.” Then take a digital photo of all your bags. This photo will come in handy in the event your luggage is lost and you need to identify it with the airlines.

Traveling with Kids – For safety, I take photos of my kids the day we are traveling. This way if they were to get lost, I can provide security with the most up-to-date photo. For more tips on traveling with children visit Delicious Baby’s Traveling Light with Kids.

Wishing you happy, organized travel!

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