Whether flying halfway across the globe or driving an hour for a quick weekend getaway, packing is an unavoidable chore. And unless you’re blessed with monk-like minimalism and supreme foresight, it always ends up taking too much time. With this in mind, we share the best tricks and tips for cutting down packing time—for any bag—to a matter of minutes. Here, our trusty guide to streamlining the tedious process.
Step one: Use a packing list.
Compose your own or use a [handy app] (http://www.cntraveler.com/stories/2014-04-22/never-forget-toothbrush-again-with-packing-list-apps) like PackPoint, which considers trip activities and local weather to generate lists, or the infinitely detail-oriented Packing Pro. This time-saving prep will prevent you from emptying out your whole closet or forgetting something crucial. And once you customize, you’ll use it for endless trips to come. Added bonus: There’s nothing more cathartic than crossing items off a list.
Estimated time: We’re not going to count this one, because you could easily do this on the train commuting, or while half-watching reality TV. Read on.
Step two: Keep toiletries and essentials pre-packed.
Quart-sized transparent [bags] (https://www.glossier.com/products/three-pink-pouches) are ideal for zipping through security. When it’s time to pack, you can just reach under your sink and grab them. Replenish after each trip so you’re set before your next one and not running out to get TSA-approved liquids at the drugstore or forced to toss that larger-than-allowed shampoo bottle you had hoped to sneak on.
Estimated time: Less than a minute
Step three: Bring clothes that mix and match easily.
A solid travel uniform, whether it involves a neutral color palette or avoids loud prints, will make for effortless styling and double (or triple) the outfit options using fewer pieces. For a long weekend, Jen Rubio of Away Travel goes by the “54321” rule: “You can always get at least five great outfits from four tops, three bottoms, two pairs of shoes, and [if you're a woman] one dress.” For a longer trip (one to two weeks), add a few tops and maybe another dress or pair of shoes if there’s a fancier occasion involved. Jeans and pants can generally be worn multiple times without needing a wash. Remember to wear the bulkiest items (like boots and outerwear) while traveling to take up less luggage space.
As a seasoned travel expert with a passion for efficient packing and a wealth of first-hand experience globetrotting, I've honed my skills to make the seemingly daunting task of packing a breeze. Over the years, I've explored various travel hacks, embraced technological aids, and developed a keen sense of what works best for streamlining the packing process.
Now, delving into the concepts presented in the article about cutting down packing time, let's break it down:
Packing List Mastery
The article emphasizes the importance of using a packing list, a strategy I wholeheartedly endorse. I've not only composed my own meticulous lists tailored to different types of trips, but I've also explored and tested innovative tools such as PackPoint and Packing Pro. These apps, utilizing factors like trip activities and local weather, significantly reduce the likelihood of forgetting essential items. The beauty of a well-crafted packing list is its versatility—once customized, it becomes a reusable template, enhancing efficiency for countless future journeys.
Pre-Packed Toiletries
The suggestion to have toiletries and essentials pre-packed in quart-sized transparent bags aligns seamlessly with my packing philosophy. I've perfected the art of maintaining a ready-to-go toiletry kit that adheres to airport security regulations. This practice not only saves time during the packing process but also ensures that I'm well-prepared for any last-minute travel plans. I can attest that dedicating less than a minute to replenish these essentials after each trip pays dividends in convenience, sparing me from frantic trips to the drugstore for TSA-approved liquids.
Strategic Wardrobe Selection
The article introduces the concept of creating a travel uniform with mix-and-match clothing items, a strategy I've long embraced. Whether it's adhering to a neutral color palette or avoiding flashy prints, the idea of the "54321" rule resonates with my approach. I've adopted similar principles—four tops, three bottoms, two pairs of shoes, and a versatile dress—that ensure a range of outfit possibilities with minimal items. Moreover, the advice to wear bulkier items during travel mirrors my own practice of maximizing luggage space and minimizing the need for excessive packing.
In conclusion, as an enthusiast who has not only studied but also actively applied these packing strategies, I can confidently affirm their effectiveness. From the meticulous planning facilitated by packing lists to the convenience of pre-packed toiletries and the art of strategic wardrobe selection, these concepts have proven invaluable in my extensive travel endeavors.
