How to Pack Your Suitcase in 30 Minutes or Less!

Running out of time before your next trip? Don't know what to pack?

Here's a quick read so you can get back to stuffing your suitcase before you jet set off on your next adventure!

1.  Plan ahead
Make a packing list on your computer (or notebook) and save it to refer back to for upcoming trips. If you put the basics on your list, all you'll need to do is adjust it for your next specific trip.

This website has pre-made lists for download if you're really in a rush!
https://daydesigner.com/products/packing-checklist 

2.  Know the climate 
Think about the weather, the time of year, the culture and the activities you have planned.
So obviously if you're going somewhere super hot, don't bring sweaters or just bring a cardigan or light jacket for evenings (or if there's super strong air conditioning).
But also think about the culture. If you're going to Morocco in the summer, still be modest in your dress but pick lighter, more breathable fabrics.
Plan for your activities. If you plan to do more adventurous things, bring versatile pieces that allow you to move.

Hanging with Chouchou the camel in Morocco wearing light weight clothing.

3.  Versatile pieces 
Not just to allow you to move, but bring pieces that can go with multiple outfits. For example, you bring that neutral, black tank top that can be paired with a nice printed skirt, pair of shorts, jeans, scarf, cardigans, etc. Same with bottoms, bring a pair of jean shorts that go with multiple tops.
My #1 versatile tip: Scarves!! You could wear the exact same outfit and throw on a bold scarf and voilà! A completely new look:)

If you have more than 30 minutes, check Pinterest out for travel clothing packing lists! 
This one's from travelista.com.

4.  Go through your daily routine
This is one of my biggest tips. Try imagining what you do on a daily basis while packing. For example when you get up: do you wash your face? Put in your contacts? Shower? Makeup? Then think of everything you need to do those things.

5.  Carry-on items
When possible, I try not to have to check a bag. I find it easier to have everything on you and then you don't have to wait for your luggage which leaves you more time to explore your destination and less wasted time! I make sure to bring travel size liquids that fit right into my carry-on. Also don't bring the non-essentials. All hotels and the majority of AirBnBs provide you with a towel, shampoo, soap, etc. so no need to bring those along.

6.  Non-clothing essentials
I love taking pictures so I always have my phone or camera on me. To be prepared for anywhere the adventure takes me, I throw a charger and a power source/extra battery in my bag. Therefore I'm always able to captures those memories.
Bring:

• Camera
• Chargers
• Extra battery pack
• Sunglasses
• Notebook to journal your experience 
• A small first aid kit (aka Advil, couple band-aids, Neosporin) 
• Small amount of cash

7.  Download apps
A lot of cities now have applications so you're able to see upcoming events, maps, metro maps, etc. all at your fingertips. I'd recommend the Metro Paris app, even without data, you're able to see where lines cross making it easy to get around the metro.

8.  Maps without wifi
If I'm out of the country and/or traveling alone especially, I might not have wifi unless I'm back at my accommodation. So I make sure to have maps/screenshots saved on my phone (with my extra battery/charger in my bag). If it's a new city and I just arrived to my AirBnB or hostel, I take pictures of the outside and area so I'm able to reference it coming back to avoid getting lost!
Tip: If you don't have data while out and about, open your maps while you have wifi (don't close out the app) then you're still able to use the map when you're out of wifi (even in airplane mode)!

9.  When technology fails us
This is an old-school tip, but think back to not having technology. If you're phone dies you don't want to be stuck. Write down all the key info you need like the address of your hotel/AirBnb/hostel, important phone numbers, even grab a map of the city to have just in case.

10.  Fold-up bag
I bought a pocket-sized, collapsable, shopping bag and always throw it into my luggage or purse. It's always great having that extra bag just in case you want to grab some groceries, souvenirs, or go to the beach and need to store your wet swimsuit, etc.

I have one similar to this and it's super useful!

**Bonus tip: 
To lighten your luggage, wear your heavier or bulkier items, like boots, sweaters, etc. the day of travel!

Any other tips you'd recommend to fellow travelers? Let me know below!

bisous,
Lyndi



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