Vacations are wonderful and we all need them, however, the thought of packing makes most people want to stay home. This, however, is not the case for me. I actually enjoy packing. I used to struggle with overpacking, but recently I've gotten better at packing the right amount. Here are some of the tips I've received from family members and figured out over the years to become an expert packer.
1. Be Realistic About What You Will Wear
If you don't wear two shirts a day while at home, you probably won't while on vacation. If you are going somewhere hot, don't pack a lot of long sleeves just in case a blizzard hits- it won't. It's ok to throw in an extra shirt or two if you aren't sure of your plans, but you aren't wearing all the shirts you own in a week.
2. Make A List
Making a list can eliminate the worry of forgetting something. If you remember something else, you can add it to the list and grab it when you get the chance. Lists can also keep you from over packing since you will see that you have enough shirts.
3. Don't Forget to Add Miscellaneous Items To Your List
The miscellaneous items are the ones most easily forgotten. Make sure to write them on your list so you don't forget your fire fly catching jars and your charging cords.
4. Type Your List
Chances are you pack pretty similar for all your trips. Save time by typing your list so all you have to do is print it and make a few revisions for your next trip. Or, download one of the many pre-typed ones.
5. Mix and Match
You don't need a pair of shorts for every shirt. Instead, pick a few shorts that will go with many shirts.
6. Wear Multipurpose Shoes
You don't need those perfect red shoes that go with a certain shirt because they, most likely, don't go with anything else. Instead, opt for shoes that can go with a lot of clothes, along with a pair of tennis shoes.
7. Roll Your Clothes
Rolling your clothes up will help your items fit more neatly into your suitcase. This comes in handy if you have a small suitcase. If done right, it will leave minimal wrinkles.