Preparing for Travel can be as Stressful as Travel Itself. It Doesn’t Have to be. 

When it comes to packing for travel, it seems like there are two categories of us: those who plan weeks ahead, and those who seem to work better with a last-minute deadline.  

My spouse is the planner, while I fit in the category of packing when there’s imminent  pressure. If I start packing too early, inevitably, I forget something important. Both methods seem to work – as long as it’s efficient. 

Social media is rife with travel tips and the perpetual debate on whether it’s better to under pack or overpack. Here are some suggestions either way. 

When it comes to clothing, Lois Joy Johnson, a travel writer for AARP and a 50+ women’s stylist recommends picking an interchangeable color scheme for your travel. She suggests packing only color coordinated pieces for versatility. For example, Navy and white for warmer months, or black paired with neutrals during cooler months can easily be interchanged.  

Either way, she encourages packing practical layers to deal with unexpected weather changes or wardrobe malfunctions. As the saying goes, “Always hope for the best, but plan for the worst.” 

If traveling by air, be sure to be comfortable. Save dressier clothing for when you get to your destination or special occasion. If traveling by vehicle, where packing space is at a premium, don’t overthink your wardrobe. Chances are, you will spend the majority of your day on the road. 

The same goes for personal hygiene items, which can add unnecessary weight and reduce space in your suitcase or carry on. TSA regulations still limit the weight of all liquids to 3.4 ounces or less per item and must fit in a resealable quart-size baggie. Consider sunscreens, moisturizers, etc. that come in a stick form instead, which are exempt from the liquid rules. 

Be sure to consolidate all your necessities, such as your cell phone, ID/passport, chargers, sunglasses, e-reader, etc. in the same bag so that they are readily available  

As far as fitting everything you need into your luggage, there are several creative ways to pack. Some people swear by affordable compression packing cubes. Others methodically layer clothing by fabric category. There’s a plethora of YouTube videos with packing tips from pros, such as flight attendants. 

If your trip takes you on the road for a significant amount of time, make your checklist well in advance. Here are some suggestions that not everyone thinks of in advance. 

• Secure your home. Remover perishables, turn off unnecessary appliances, and consider putting lights on a daily timer. Double check locked windows and doors. 

• Print your reservation confirmations as a backup to the confirmation you received on your phone – in case you are in an area without cell service. 

• Set up Auto Pay for utility, credit card and other monthly bills. 

• Share your itinerary with a family member or friend. 

• Arrange a hold on mail with your local post office and ask a neighbor to keep a lookout for any unexpected deliveries. (Maybe they’ll water your plants as well!) 

• Keep a list of your medications, medical alerts and emergency contact information in your phone. Place a printed version in your glovebox. 

• Sign up for local weather alerts as you progress through your trip. 

• Don’t forget to plan your playlist. 

• Keep an atlas handy and take advantage of official state maps at visitor centers. 

• Store plenty of water and snacks, enough to get to the following day in case your trip is interrupted. 

• Have your vehicle serviced in advance. Consider subscribing to a roadside assistance program. 

• Keep emergency flares and a travel first aid kit on hand. 

• Have a portable charger and generator (if there’s room) available for each of your devices. 

Last, keep a travel journal, or write a blog for your family and friends to enjoy. 

Bon Voyage. 

Bridget FitzPatrick