Save time. Take what’s really needed. Plus even he’ll be able to find it!
Putting together my “cosmetic/personal care” bag used to take way too much time. Here’s a solution that works . . . Start by designating a personal care travel bag. Fill it with all-the-same-size ziploc storage bags. (I like the gallon size for longer trips; quart size for shorter trips). Think of those baggies as if they were files. Put a label high up right under the “zip” — like you’re filing — so you can find things easily, i.e. hair, meds, bath, first aid, whatever. For small items put snack and sandwich size bags into the larger ones. Now you won’t have to always repack — just refill. Best of all, when your mate yells “where is it?” assume he can read and direct him to the bag. Even he‘ll be able to find it.
Size-wise, the 2 gallon Baggies are perfect for packing sweaters, t-shirts (no wrinkles) and larger shoes. And the1 gallon ziplocs are terrific for separating socks, undies and hose. Take extra 2 gallons for wet bathing suits, and smaller one for snacks and the inevitable but unplanned. Once back home, keep your currency in a drawer “baggied” by country - amazing how nice it is not to have to search around for those leftover bills.
A snoety Tip: There are terrific small label-making machines at stores like Staples: I like the Brother P-Touch and it’s definitely worth investing the 10-15 minutes to learn how it works!
Keep an inventory
Keep a travel inventory sheet of everything you need to pack - best by category. For example: Hair & Bath might list: shampoo, conditioner, gel, water/hair spray, hair dryer, hair clips, body lotion, bath gel, shower caps, body soap, razor, blades . . . Electronics might list: transformers, batteries, chargers, sync, phone, sim card, computer, DVD player . . .
Keep three copies of your Inventory: in your computer, in your travel bag, and another in your bathroom. I have a bathroom “travel drawer” where I keep useful travel items and extras. Before closing your bags, be sure to check that inventory! Otherwise you will forget that most important item.
Give us the travel time saving ideas you’ve thought of, so we can share them with others.
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I travel a great deal for work, and often leave the country for vacation.
I bought a Bagalinni which stays, hung in my closet with the travel-size toilette items (labeled, in Ziplock bags), ready to go. I can see everything at a glance in the clear plastic compartments. My packing list is there as well so before a trip I supplement what I need. A snap to hang the Bagalinni in the bathroom if pressed for space or unpack, if space permits. Also a snap to unpack upon return.
Rather than guess in winter what to take on a warm-climate break, (or visa-versa), I photograph all wardrobe items including accessories, matching tops, jewelry, too. That way I don’t have to think about putting something together when I’m too pressed for time. The picture is worth the proverbial thousand words. Trust me, the small investment in time is worth it ….