share – the suite life of travel

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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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My brother, Mike Ambuske, has been involved with the Young Life organization for over 20 years. He is currently serving with this amazing association as Young Life’s Area Director for North Butler County, Pennsylvania. During the time of our family visit to Saranac Lake, he was working out of Argyle, NY. That summer, he was preparing to bring a group of teens for a week long spiritual journey to learn more about Jesus in hopes that they would give their lives to serving Christ. He wanted to bring us to Saranac Lake to show us where he would be traveling and to share with us some amazing opportunities to get involved with the Young Life organization. Please see below for a way to support Young Life Butler or your local Young Life leadership.