5 Packing Tips To Improve the Travel Experience
When I used to pack for trips, I would often find myself scrambling at the last minute, tossing items into a bag without much thought. I wouldn’t check the weather or consider what activities I’d be doing—I’d just grab whatever was in front of me and squeeze it all in. Inevitably, I’d regret my packing choices and end up buying new items on the go. But as I began to travel more frequently, I realized the importance of taking the time to carefully plan what I truly need.
With the constant unpacking and repacking that comes with hopping from one destination to another, efficient packing has become a game-changer for me. I now enjoy the challenge of packing smartly, selecting only the essentials and making sure I’m prepared for whatever comes my way.
After years of frustration, I’ve developed a few essential tips to make packing easier and improve your travel experience:
1. Check the Weather
This might seem obvious, but it’s easy to overlook. I’ve gone on trips assuming the weather would be pleasant, only to find it much colder at night. Factors like rainy seasons and altitudes can drastically affect the climate.
When planning your outfits, it’s crucial to base them on the actual weather forecast. For example, when I was preparing for a trip to Peru, I assumed the weather would be warm since it’s near the equator. But after checking the forecast, I saw it gets quite cold at night due to the high altitude. So, I swapped out my tank tops and shorts for a down jacket and a fleece for added comfort.
For added outfit inspiration, try typing your destination into Instagram. By scrolling through recent posts from others at your destination, you can see what people are wearing in the current weather. I recommend doing this a few days before your trip to get an accurate sense of what to pack.
Checking the weather for your destination, and considering the full range of temperatures throughout the day, is essential for packing the right clothes and can significantly enhance your travel experience.
- Pull out What you Know you Need (Sort your Plans, Activities, and Needs)
When planning your trip, consider what activities you’ll be doing to ensure you pack the right clothing and gear. If you’re hiking or swimming, you’ll need specific attire. For city walks, comfortable walking shoes are essential. I like to map out my activities first and then decide what I’ll be most comfortable wearing for each.
For example, since I tend to walk a lot while traveling, a great pair of walking shoes is a must. These ones I bought a couple of years ago have been a lifesaver—no shoelaces to worry about, just slip on and go! A good CamelBak backpack is another travel essential, perfect for walking and hiking. It’s compact yet holds everything I need. Lastly, don’t forget a good hat and sunglasses for sun protection—these small items can make a big difference in your comfort.
Packing with your activities in mind ensures a smoother, more enjoyable travel experience.
- Pick Versatile Clothes
I used to struggle with packing because I’d pack separate outfits for each occasion—casual days, hiking, going out, the beach, etc. But then I realized that many items can serve multiple purposes. The key is to choose versatile clothing that can work in different settings.
For example, I found a great pair of hiking pants on Amazon that are perfect for outdoor adventures, but they also work well for walking around the city or even lounging on a bus. Multiple uses mean I save space in my luggage. I also discovered a cute workout top that can double as a going-out outfit—talk about efficiency!
Of course, I still make sure to wash these items with a laundry service every week or so while traveling, so they stay fresh and ready to wear again. Packing versatile clothing not only saves space but also simplifies your travel wardrobe, making your trip more enjoyable.
- Pack Less Than you Think
One of the hardest parts of packing for me is taking things out, but I’ve gotten better over the years. I like to sort my items into three piles: “definites,” “maybes,” and “don’t needs.” I focus on the essentials first and make sure all my “definites” fit into my travel bag. Then, I force myself to remove at least two items from the “maybes” pile and move them to the “don’t needs” pile—they go right back in the closet. I usually don’t end up taking most of my “maybes,” but considering them helps me feel prepared! This method ensures I pack efficiently while keeping my bag light, making packing easier and improving the travel experience.
- Have Fun with It
I used to dread packing, treating it like a chore I just had to get through. But now, with a solid list and a clear idea of what I need, I’ve turned it into a little event! I pour myself a glass of wine, crank up some music, and even add a pleasant scent with a diffuser to set the mood. Trying on outfits and dancing in front of the mirror helps me decide what to bring—it’s like a mini fashion show! Sometimes, I’ll even call up a friend and catch up while I pack; it’s a great way to multitask and make the experience more enjoyable.
I followed these tips while packing for my trip to Peru, and it made the process so much easier. Of course, there are always a few things I wish I had packed or left behind, but overall, it was a game-changer. Stay tuned for a follow-up post on how my packing strategies worked out in Peru!
Love,
Edie in Peru!