Hi Besties! With summer break just around the corner, I know one thing is on all our minds: travel. Everyone wants to put their spring cleaning behind them to finally get out of town for an extended break and some fun and sun.

Traveling definitely can be exciting. But are you tired of overpacking or forgetting essential items when traveling? As a professional organizing expert of over 40 years, I'm here to share my best travel packing tips to make your life on the road as efficient and stress-free as possible. 

Whether you're a frequent traveler or preparing for your first adventure, these strategies will help you master the packing process and enjoy peace of mind during your journey.

When I'm helping clients with home organization in Augusta, I notice similarities between decluttering homes and efficient packing. In both cases, people often say, "I might need this later!" This mindset can lead to overpacking, which creates unnecessary stress.

To avoid this, I use an acronym called DAWDP to streamline the packing process for any actual trip.

First, determine exactly how many days you'll be traveling. This forms the foundation of your packing lists and helps you avoid bringing too many clean clothes.

What activities will you be doing? A business trip requires different attire than a beach vacation in Costa Rica. Planning outfits around specific activities ensures you bring only what you'll actually use.

Always check the weather forecast! This simple step prevents overpacking and ensures you have appropriate attire. The last thing you want is to be caught without a jacket during a flight delay in cold weather.

Identify items you can wear multiple times. Certain items can be worn repeatedly while staying fresh, reducing the need for extra luggage space. These include:

• Jeans
• Pajamas
• Merino wool clothing like a merino t-shirt Merino wool socks

What can you buy at your destination? Items like a water bottle, liquid soap, or other essential toiletries can often be purchased upon arrival, saving valuable luggage space during transit.

Every traveler should consider these travel essentials for the day of travel.

Your personal item for storage (like a backpack or large purse) should contain:

• Electronics that are easily accessible for security
• Your water bottle (keep it empty until after security)
• Credit cards and a backup debit card
• Travel insurance information
• A travel medication kit or first-aid kit

For toiletries, use a clear bag that can be easily accessed during security checks. Consider these options to save space:

• Shampoo bars instead of full-size bottles (like fig truffle oil shampoo without the foamy shampoo mess)
• A simple soap bar instead of body wash
• Solid toiletries in compact size

Of course, we can’t forget the technology, Bestie! For travel, you should bring:

• An ideal travel device like a tablet for entertainment
• Portable chargers to use when power outlets aren't available
• An in-flight phone holder for comfortable viewing
• Phone flashlights for budget hotels or during emergencies

Being strategic with your packing will help to keep it organized and efficient. Some of my favorite techniques include:

• Place your heaviest items and bulkiest items at the bottom of your bag
• Use expandable zippers or expandable luggage for extra space if needed
• Pack heavier items like canvas shoes or low-top hiking shoes toward the wheel end of your luggage
• Consider compact size versions of your essential items

I’ve got four kids of my own, so I know how hectic packing and traveling with a family can be. Thankfully, there are some easy ways to keep them organized and occupied that I’ve successfully used with my own family!

When traveling with kids, have dedicated activity bags ready to keep them entertained. These should be easily accessible in their personal item. For families, I also recommend:

• A larger size laundry bag for dirty clothes
• Smaller packing cubes to organize each family member's belongings
• Always keep valuables in the hotel safe

Remember that as a long-term traveler, you'll develop your own system, find your favorite travel items, and refine your approach for future trips. Google Travel can also help you plan accordingly based on your destination.

For those who prefer one-bag travel and avoiding the luggage carousel, packing efficiently in a carry-on bag is essential. It's like solving a puzzle—fitting everything just right. Here’s how you do it.

The key to light packing is being deliberate about what you bring. After considering the DAWDP factors, you should:

• Lay out complete outfits on your bed based on your activities
• Eliminate any items that don't belong to a planned outfit
• Consider packing weight and baggage policies to avoid baggage fees

Here's my technique for slim packing that will revolutionize how you organize your carry-on luggage.

Start with folding your tops flat:

1. Lay the shirt flat
2. Fold up to the armpits
3. Bring the sides over to the collar
4. Fold once or twice more to create a compact rectangle

For pants or jeans:

1. Fold in half
2. Fold the seat in (just below the pockets)
3. Fold once more

You also want to create outfit bundles. That means pairing folded tops with corresponding bottoms so you have ready-to-wear outfits. This eliminates confusion during your trip.

Sometimes it can be hard to visualize folding methods, so I’ve got a video demonstration available for you!

Using this method, I was able to pack an incredible amount in my carry-on bag when I went on an organizing retreat in Mexico.

In my bag, I fit:

• One floor-length velvet dress
• One pantsuit
• One cardigan
• Two pairs of jeans
• Four tops
• A pair of shoes
• Three bras
• Ten pairs of underwear
• One pair of slacks
• Three pairs of shoes
• Two pajama sets

All of this fit in a standard carry-on! Crazy, right?!

If you're looking for a perfect solution to maximize space further, consider investing in packing cubes or compression packing cubes. These packing squares or Mesh bags can be the simplest solution for organizing your entire luggage.

Packing for travel doesn't have to be stressful—it can actually be enjoyable when you have the right system in place! The peace and clarity you experience from an organized suitcase mirrors the tranquility of a well-organized home.

As a professional organizer and interior decorator providing luxury home organization in the Augusta area, I bring the same thoughtful, luxurious approach to both home and travel organization. The skills I use to transform cluttered homes can help you transform your travel experience as well.

Ready to experience the life-changing benefits of luxury professional organization in your home? Visit Calming Home by Venus today to book your discovery call and discover how our luxury professional organizing services in Augusta GA can bring lasting order and peace to your home—just like we've done for your suitcase!