Packing for a trip can be a drag, but trust me, it doesn’t have to be! I’ve learned from my own experience that lugging around too much luggage can really slow you down. Whether you’re flying, taking a train, or hopping on a bus, it’s best to follow the wise saying: take half the luggage and double the money. And don’t worry, you can still look fabulous on your well-deserved vacation. Just keep reading for some awesome packing tips!
Choose the right backpack
Regardless of the size of your backpack, I highly recommend opting for a backpack that opens all the way. This makes it so much easier to pack, unpack and stay organized. I recently switched to an Osprey Sojourn 60L and absolutely love it! Here are my tips for choosing the right backpack for your trip.
”How
Pack a color palette
When packing try to pack a color palette so all your stuff can be mixed and matched! It sounds somewhat ridiculous but it allows for many different outfits while keeping the weight low.
Use a checklist
Making sure that you have all of the essentials can be tricky when packing. To ensure that nothing gets left behind, it's a good idea to make a list with the essentials. This way you won't forget anything important like passports and adapters.
Spread everything out
Before packing spread everything out and look at it again the next day. This technique helps me to see if I have forgotten something. Also, usually, it helps me eliminate unnecessary stuff. When unsure what to choose, always opt for the more lightweight option!
Always use packing cubes
Packing cubes are small, lightweight fabric bags that help you organize your backpack. They come in different sizes and colors, so you can easily find what you need without having to dig through your entire pack. I highly recommend using packing cubes when backpacking - they make packing and unpacking a breeze!
I use my cubes to categorize so that I don't have to unpack everything like sleeping, beach, mountain, etc.
Keep your clothes smelling fresh
Keep your luggage smelling fresh and clean by adding a bag of lavender. Plus, if you're traveling to a humid destination, toss in a small muslin bag of rice to absorb moisture and keep your clothes smelling fresh too!
Roll your clothes instead of folding them
This will save a ton of space in your backpack. Make sure to roll them tightly so they don't take up too much space. This does also give you a better overview of the things you packed plus it will keep help you to keep your stuff less wrinkly. Rolling my clothes has been a real game-changer in my packing game!
Pack it and try it!
To make sure you did not overpack I highly recommend packing everything one day prior and actually putting everything in your backpack. I have overpacked so many time and ended up being stressed by reducing stuff last minute.
Opt for a cosmetics bag to hang
This will help you keep track of your toiletries and save space in your backpack. Hanging a cosmetics bag from a towel rack or the back of a door is also a good way to keep an overview even if you can't spread your things out.
Distribute weight in your backpack
Put the heavy stuff on the bottom. By doing this, you will be able to carry your bag with more ease.
Distribute the weight evenly between both sides of the backpack. This way you won't be having an awkward lopsided moment when walking around with your bag.
Pack heavy stuff in the middle. Putting heavier items in your backpack close to your back will make it easier for you to carry. Make sure they are distributed evenly on either side so that the weight is balanced when you're carrying it.
Don't forget your padlocks!
In those moments when your backpack is out of sight, it's important to have a way to keep it secure. One option is to lock the zips together using a padlock. Keep in mind that not all backpack zips are designed for this, but it's still worth attaching a lock. This way, even at a quick glance, it looks like your bag is locked. Safety first!
Keep track of your luggage
Never lose your belongings again with these simple tips. As a seasoned traveler, I understand the frustration of losing luggage and the headaches that come with it. That's why I highly recommend adding an Air Tag to your belongings. These nifty trackers ensure that you can always keep track of your stuff, even if the airline can't. Additionally, taking pictures of your packed items provides extra peace of mind and makes the process of dealing with lost luggage less of a nightmare. Don't let the stress of lost belongings ruin your travels - take control and stay organized with these helpful techniques.
Pack a spare outfit in your carry on
Because my luggage has now got lost multiple times I have learned my lesson! Don't take chances with lost luggage ruining your trip! Be prepared by packing a spare outfit in your carry-on. Imagine arriving at your destination and being able to change into clean clothes, even if your checked bag is MIA. To be extra safe, don't forget to include fresh underwear, a day's outfit, and sleepwear in your carry-on. Oh, and make sure to also bring any other important stuff like medicine, precious tech gadgets, or anything you absolutely can't live without. Trust me, having peace of mind is totally worth it!
Use the pillowcase trick
I use the pillow case trick to bring my spare outfits in my carry on
First, stuff all your clothes into the zippered pillowcase. Then, cover it with a regular pillowcase. Voila! Not only do you free up space in your bag for other essentials, but you also have a cozy pillow to sleep on during your flight. Plus, remember all those extra outfits you thought you couldn't bring? With this hack, you can bring them along too!
What makes this hack even better is that most airlines don't consider a pillow as a carry-on item. So you can enjoy all the perks without any worries. Try it out and pack like a pro on your next adventure!
Have Fun!
Backpacking is all about having an adventure and exploring the unknown so don't let packing overwhelm you and take away from your fun. With these tips, you can have your backpack
