Tag Archives: business

Tips for Packing for your Next Trip…Business or Pleasure

As airlines increase their baggage fees and continued restrictions are placed on what one can pack in their suitcases and carry-ons, here are some great tips that may help as you prepare to pack for your next business trip or vacation.

  1. Make a list and check it twice: I have a template list for packing based on specific types of travel (business or pleasure) as well as categorized by the type of trip I am taking (beach or ski trip).  From clothes to toiletries, accessories and electronics, I can rest assured that I will have what I need for my next out of town experience.  Another benefit of having a list is that as I pack, I can confirm that I am returning home with the items that I brought on my trip.
  2. Check the weather: So I have already determined the climate where I will be visiting, but as everyone knows, weather can be unpredictable.  And today, with the advantage of the internet, I can easily download the forecast for where I will be heading.  So if there is a possibility of rain showers, short or extended, I can pack to accommodate the weather.  Well, at least to some extent.
  3. Lay out clothes by outfit: There is nothing like packing my favorite dress, only to find out that I left behind the perfect pumps that I purchased specifically for that dress.  Arranging the clothes as I would wear them, helps to ensure that I have not forgotten any of the essentials for a particular outfit.  This also includes accessories such as jewelry, scarves, etc.  As I position my clothes, I can also see additional ensembles that may be a possibility throughout the week.
  4. Know the restrictions for carry-on items. I watched a young man miss his flight because he had packed his expensive cologne in his carry on.  So as he was going through security, the attendant told him that he would either need to leave the cologne at the checkpoint or go back and pack it in his suitcase.  I have to admit that I was surprised that he opted to return back to check in rather than part with his aftershave, but it eventually cost him as he ended up missing his flight and had to wait for the next departure.  Here are the regulations regarding traveling with liquids (domestic). [http://www.tsa.gov/traveler-information/3-1-1-liquids-rule]
  5. Prepare a toiletries kit: Because I travel on a regular basis, I have a second set of toiletries set aside which is a huge benefit for preparing for my trip.  This way, I will not need to wait until the last minute to pack my toothbrush and toothpaste.  Once I return home from a trip, I purchase items that I need to replace so that my travel kit is complete and ready for my next adventure.

Packing is the least of my favorite activities in preparing for a trip, but obviously, it is a necessity.  The more efficient and easier I can make the process, the more enjoyable the packing process can be!

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Packing Outside of the Box

Packing for vacation can be a daunting task.  I have made countless checklists (by vacation type and temperature) and taken many precautions when it comes to my luggage.  I am always on the lookout for ways to ease the packing process and ensuring that my belongings reach their final destination.   Here are some of the tips I use to take the stress out of packing.

  1. As baggage fees increase, it may be more economical to send clothes ahead of time using priority mail, especially if you think that you will go over the weight limit or will have an additional bag.  You can also send things home through priority mail as well, but if you are returning from a trip outside of your country, make sure that you do not put valuables, medicine or items that you may need shortly after you have arrived to your destination or back home.
  1. Have you ever thought of donating some of your items to charity? Check into local agencies that may take used clothing and toiletries that have not yet been used.  This will lighten the load of your luggage coming back home, and you will be helping a good cause.
  1. If traveling with a companion, you may be able to keep the weight of your luggage down by dividing items that you can share. These items can include toiletries, electronics, or less frequently used items, for example, first aid kits, shampoo/conditioner, or curling iron.  Of course the extent of “sharing” may depend on how close you are to that person.   Only you can make a decision whether or not to bring your own toothbrush.
  1. Take photos of the your luggage, along with your passport and other important documentation. Although items may have shifted during travel and your luggage may have been inspected, you can be assured that what you packed remains in your possession.
  1. Finally, consider buying items at your local destination rather than packing them on your trip. From clothes to toiletries to duty free liquor, you will have an opportunity not only to buy items that you need for the week, but a souvenir of your trip.

Undoubtedly there are a variety of great tips for packing whether traveling domestically or internationally.  Putting them into practice will help reduce stress and start your vacation in the right direction.

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