Traveling With Ease and Grace

Whenever my Ultimate Concierge and I travel, we are all very excited. However, traveling can often bring a lot of stress. For that reason, I am always beyond grateful I have my “packing plan”.

Because I pack smart, I am able to travel smart and relieve stress for myself, and for the people traveling with me.

Through Trial and Error, I Have Learned

Having traveled the world and packed hundreds of times I have discovered, through trial and error, a successful packing plan is mandatory. Different destinations require different packing strategies, as each location may have unique climates, safety concerns, and travel requirements to consider.

When my Ultimate Concierge and I close the door behind us either for a long exciting adventure or a short meeting in New York, I have crossed my T’s and dotted my I’s. Believe me, I did not learn this overnight. And even though I can tell you with certainty I am a skilled and detailed packer, I must tell you that preparing for any trip is exhausting and trying.

There is so much to consider before packing! Is our baggage properly identified? Are the dates on our passports over the time limit required? Who will water the plants! Are our vaccines up to date, antibiotic prescriptions ordered just in case and did I remember to make a copy of our passports just in case one or both get lost? Did I remember to have our mail held? Turn the heat down? Pack our masks, and double-check to make sure, “We did not leave home without it!” OY! Darlings, it never ends for yours truly until I plop into my seat on flight number whatever and breathe a sigh of relief.

Nothing good happens by accident. Nothing can be accomplished without a strategic plan…especially now with COVID-19 travel restrictions.

A Strategic Plan

My travel itinerary and the climate determine my wardrobe “must-haves”. Also my “I can’t leave home without it” needs are just as important. If I were to forget any important necessities I would be very upset with myself. However, my goal is to plan with clarity.

Don’t be fooled that short trips are easier. Packing is tedious whether it is for a short weekend getaway or an extended trip lasting several weeks or even just a week. My plan makes the physical and mental activity of packing bearable. A good strategy is to lay out everything you want to bring and then cut it in half to avoid overpacking. And I might add, I pack for two and sometimes three! Myself, my husband Shelly, and our pooch America.

Choosing the Right Luggage

Darlings, the foundation of packing smart and traveling light begins with choosing the right luggage. When selecting your carry on bag, pay close attention to the size and weight limits set by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and your airline—no one wants to be caught at the airport with extra weight or a bag that won’t fit in the overhead compartment! Opt for a lightweight, durable carry on with sturdy handles and smooth-rolling wheels to make gliding through busy terminals a breeze. Multiple compartments are a must for keeping your essentials organized and easy to find. If you’re a tech lover, consider a carry on with a built-in charging station to keep your devices powered up on the go. By investing in the right luggage, you’ll be able to pack light, avoid unnecessary stress, and breeze through your travels with ease and grace.

Clear Plastic Means Easy Identification

I use clear plastic baggies for my shoes, belts, undies, and other needs instead of shoe bags or zippered packing bags. I use clear dry cleaner bags for my clothes that also prevent wrinkling. Why? Because I want to be able to identify everything at a glance and never consider pressing them. As well, I prefer Tumi luggage. Our last piece lasted 28-years and traveled around the world several times.

My makeup bag has several size compartments and is clear plastic. If you are packing fragile items, such as a makeup mirror or perfume bottles, be sure to wrap them in clothing or plastic bags to protect them from breaking during travel. Here is an easy list of all my essential items for organization:

• Clothes hangers with cardboard tubing
• Small and large plastic Ziploc baggies
• Plastic dry cleaner bags (short and long)
• Tumi luggage or luggage of your choice that is sturdy
• Hanging makeup bag

My Easy Packing Plan

• LINGERIE AND NIGHTGOWNS ARE PLACED IN SEPARATE ZIPLOC BAGS
  When I arrive at my destination I take the Ziploc bags out of my suitcase and lay them in the dresser drawer. My drawer is neat and I don’t have to take each piece out of my suitcase one by one. Unpacking takes less than a few minutes from your suitcase to a drawer. When packing, I use lingerie and nightgowns to fill small gaps in my suitcase, sometimes adding other items like socks or chargers to maximize space.
• EACH COMPLETE OUTFIT IS HUNG ON A LAUNDRY HANGER AND COVERED WITH A PLASTIC BAG THAT PREVENTS WRINKLING
  I can visually see each outfit for my trip. This is how I do it. I begin by laying my slacks over the hanger. My top lies as flat as possible over my slacks, possibly a scarf over the top and my jacket is then hung on the same hanger. The outfit is then covered with a plastic dry-cleaning bag. I use the same procedure with my dresses and skirts. All the outfits are hung on a rack or in my closet so I can visually see my entire wardrobe in front of my eyes. This allows me to choose my shoes and handbags. When filling my suitcase, I make sure to pack each outfit efficiently, filling available space to avoid shifting and wrinkling.
• MY SHOES ARE PUT INTO LARGE SIZE PLASTIC ZIPLOC BAGS AND MY EVENING HANDBAG(S)–A CLUTCH BECAUSE IT IS TAKES UP LITTLE SPACE–IS ALSO PUT INTO PLASTIC ZIPLOCS, AS WELL AS MY BELTS.
  I can see everything. When I used cloth shoe and handbag covers I had to do an open and search, which would cause me to get more and more frustrated. Not any longer! To save space, I fill my shoes with other items such as socks, sunglasses, or electronics chargers before placing them in the bags.
  

Double Duty Items: Packing Smarter

One of my favorite travel tips is to pack double duty items—those clever essentials that serve more than one purpose. This is the secret to packing light and making the most of every inch in your bags. For example, a reusable water bottle not only keeps you hydrated but can also be used to store small toiletries or snacks. A sarong can transform from a beach cover-up to a cozy blanket or even a makeshift dress. Scarves are another must-have: they add style, keep you warm, and can double as a pillow on the plane. By choosing items that do double duty, you’ll save space, reduce extra weight, and keep your luggage light and manageable. Remember, every item you pack should earn its place by being useful in more than one way—your back (and your bags) will thank you!

Pack a Suitcase Like a Pro

Always put shoes on the bottom in your clear plastic baggies. Tip: Bringing only two pairs—walking shoes and sandals or dress shoes—is often sufficient for most trips, saving space and weight. Then undies, nighties, sweaters laid flat, an umbrella, etc. Then outfits. Tip: Roll t shirts and other clothes instead of folding them—rolling takes up less space, helps with saving space and money, and reduces wrinkles. My hanging makeup bag is laid flat in the outer zippered pocket on the top of my luggage. My makeup mirror is laid flat between my outfits for protection—wrap fragile items like this in clothing to protect them from breaking during travel.

To secure and protect your valuables and fragile stuff, make sure to wrap them in soft clothing and place them in the center of your suitcase. Packing your own carry on luggage or carry on bags helps avoid the risk of your bag being lost or broken, and gives you more control over your personal items. When deciding between a carry on bag and a checked bag, remember that carry on bags have restrictions on liquids and personal items, while checked bags allow more flexibility but can be at greater risk for damage. Most hotels provide shampoo, so you may not need to pack your own. Tip: Keep your money and essential personal items in your personal item for easy access and to keep them secure.

Are you curious how I pack my clothes in a suitcase on hangers? It is very simple.

Take one plastic bagged outfit and fold it under from the top and place it at one end of your suitcase. This way your clothes will lay flat in your suitcase and not wrinkle. The second set of clothing is folded at the top and placed flat at the opposite end of your suitcase. Keep rotating the hangers from one end to the other until complete. Your layered outfits will stay flat in your suitcase and be perfect. Efficient packing and packing light leads to saving space, time, and money, and helps you organize your stuff for a smoother trip.

Packing List: Don’t Leave Home Without It

Darlings, never underestimate the power of a well-crafted packing list! Before every trip, I sit down and make a list of everything I’ll need, from clothing and toiletries to electronics and travel documents. Think about your destination, the weather, and the activities you have planned. Essentials like a first aid kit, extra socks and underwear, and a portable charger should always make the cut. As you pack, check off each item to ensure nothing is forgotten—there’s nothing worse than arriving at your destination and realizing you left something important behind. A packing list helps you pack smart, avoid overpacking, and ensures you have all your essentials for a comfortable, stress-free trip.

Layering Clothes for Versatility

When it comes to packing light and maximizing your travel wardrobe, layering is your best friend. Choose versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched, and pack a few essential layers like a lightweight jacket, a cozy sweater, and a stylish scarf. Not only does layering help you adapt to changing weather and different activities, but it also saves precious space in your bag. Wear your heavier items, such as boots or a coat, on the plane to free up room in your luggage. Plus, layering adds an extra barrier against spills or unexpected accidents—because, as we know, accidents happen! With a smart layering strategy, you’ll be ready for anything your trip throws your way, all while keeping your luggage light and your style on point.

Be Aware

I never pack my ‘good anything’ in my luggage. I put handbags, jewelry, and belts in my carry-on. Airlines warn flyers of robbery. So, be aware.

Unpacking: The Best Part

Now, you have had a long trip. You’re tired and dreading the unpacking process. Not with my plan! You will have everything in its correct place within minutes. Hang your outfits on their hangers in the closet. Take off the bags. Put your lingerie, nightgowns, and evening bags in the drawers. Leave your shoes in the see-through plastic Ziplocs and put them in the closet. Except for your cosmetics, jewelry, and accessories you are unpacked and ready to begin your trip with joy and vigor.

My Must-Haves

Here are some handy items to have on any trip:

• An umbrella
• Antibiotics
• Small power strip
• Copy of passport
• First-aid kit
• Goodbye Roaming Charges: Skyroam Solis Mobile Wi-Fi Hotspot
• A Journal
• A travel mirror
• Travel Immunization Records
• Tech products. This is an individual decision that reflects your personal needs.

A Trip To Remember

Now that you have a packing plan, you can tweak and get excited about travel. Remember, most things can be purchased at your destination, so focus on packing only the essentials. This is the perfect time of the year to begin a conversation with your family, your spouse, or significant other or think about the possibility of traveling solo. How exciting!

Maybe an educational trip with Grands to Washington DC or the coast of Normandy. Or maybe a cooking class in Italy. Maybe a romantic trip to Paris or an adventure through Teddy Roosevelt’s dream come true, The National Parks in America. Think about a visit to your children and grandchildren’s home or even a trip through your city to explore its treasures. Oh my, oh my, my little heart is beating as I think about the joy of travel once again. I feel the excitement of curiosity running through my veins. How about you?

For more tips on packing and travel, be sure to check out our additional guides and resources.

Do you have a packing routine or favorite travel items? Let me know in the comments below. I want to hear from you! 

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