Travel Packing Tip - Packing Guide

Packing can be a challenge for many people so we surveyed our travel experts here in the office and compiled our very own list of unique packing tips. We hope these suggestions help you and your clients travel lighter on future trips.

1. Make a list and lay out your suitcase - This is a sure fire way to not forget anything. If you start your list the week before travel, you have time to add things as they come to mind. Laying out your suitcase several days before you start packing allows you to drop items into the suitcase as you see them around the house. Doing an audit before you begin packing is crucial to ensure that you don't end up bringing non-essential items.

2. Plan your outfits - If you're not hiking a mountain, you don't need hiking boots. Whether you are traveling for business or pleasure, you will often have an idea of what activities you need to prepare for. Go through each day and plan your ensemble based on your schedule; clothes can always be shuffled around or supplemented if plans change. This is an easy way to make sure that you don't return home with clothes that you never wore.

3. Prepare with layers - Traveling to several destinations, or during times when weather patterns are fluctuating, can be tricky. By planning multiple layers you can adapt your clothing throughout the day or as weather changes.

4. Limit your shoes, and don't bring new ones - Shoes take up a lot of space. Try to pick just a couple pairs of shoes that can take you through multiple outfits, and stay away from anything too flashy. It is less likely that someone will notice that you are repeating footwear if you're not wearing ruby slippers. Also, don't bring new shoes on vacation. Most likely you will only get to wear them once before they start hurting your feet and then they are only taking up valuable real estate in your suitcase.

5. Use carry on size toiletries - Packing only the essential cosmetics and toiletries can significantly cut down on luggage. Full size shampoos and conditioners can be bulky or messy, and you don't need a six month supply of moisturizer or shaving cream. Try bringing sample sizes or invest in bottles that fit the carry on requirements. These can be found at most drug stores and are inexpensive and reusable.

6. When in doubt, leave it at home - If there is only a chance you will need it, don't bring it. This sounds basic, but it's a mistake many make. Remember, the worst case scenario is you end up needing an item you didn't bring - don't forget that there are stores in almost any destination you will be traveling to. This is also a fantastic way to shed those last few items that won't fit in your suitcase. More often than not, you won't miss them!