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Packing my Bags

 This week, I'll join my younger son and colleagues for a school trip. I love to travel, and even crazy, overnight trips with middle-schoolers can be a great adventure! That being said, here are some ideas for when you have a quick trip with little space.

Limit your wardrobe.

I cannot stress this one enough! There are some great minimal travel tips for what to include when packing for a trip. This includes jewelry! By selecting a few pieces that you can mix and match, you will save space in your suitcase for the "non-negotiable" items such as cosmetics and any hair tools you may require. In addition, be sure to check the weather, but consider the difference in climate as well. For example, when I visited NYC in October, the temperature was unseasonably warm, but there was significantly less humidity, so I still needed long sleeves at night. Wardrobe considerations should be made well in advance so you aren't scrambling last minute to do laundry.

Pack the necessities.

Those hair tools or special cosmetics that you can't live without? Pack them. You will save yourself stress by making space for things that are part of your daily routine. Additionally, you don't want to try a new hair or makeup routine while you are on a trip. Just pack what you need. Don't forget medications and band-aids!

Invest in a portable charger.

Especially if you plan to be out and about, this one will save you...and your battery! There are some great options, so be sure to read reviews before spending the money. Also, make sure to charge it each night so it's ready to go every day!

Don't forget the snacks!

Seriously, just get some easy food items and keep them in the room with you for when that snack bug hits. Vending is expensive, so find a grocery store when you arrive to stock up on things you need. For my upcoming trip, I'll be taking bottled water and various things. I easily drink 48-56 ounces of water daily, so this is a must for me! Since I'm not a huge snacker, this will be more for breakfast, so granola bars and chocolate (of course!) will be my go-to choices for this trip.

Don't stress if you forget something.

We don't live in the dark ages, so if you find you haven't packed something you need, no worries! My best friend is going on the trip this week with her daughter, and if she doesn't have what I may need, there will be about seven other teachers who probably will. Traveling alone? Check with the hotel for minor toiletries or find a CVS, Walgreens, or some equivalent to pick up what you need.

There you have it! Next time you have to travel, try to downsize to that rolling carry-on and tote bag, get creative with your space, and enjoy the ride!

© 2024 Jill Cook. All rights reserved.

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