Packing Your Bag - the essentials

My travels seem to ebb and flow, with the majority of my time on planes for work. With this said, I've had to learn some tricks to streamline my packing process and of course, to hopefully lessen my chances of forgetting something. When you forget something, doesn't it always seem to be that "one thing" you really needed?

Toiletries

I approach toiletries in three different ways. I know, this already sounds overwhelming, although, it isn't so just hang in there with me. First of all, there are some of my favorites I always keep in travel size - eye makeup remover and hair conditioner to name a couple. I often don't have room to include a travel size shampoo too, (don't tell my hairdresser) but I try to at least include the conditioner. Then, for those must-have items I don't have access to in travel size, I purchase a travel size container and keep it filled and ready-to-go - my facial cleanser falls into this category. Last but not least are those items I use day-to-day that need to go with me. I've gotten this part down to a rhythm where as soon as I am done using that item as part of my daily routine - either in the night or in the morning - I put it directly into my travel bag. And, I keep all items of my daily routine items out on the counter, which acts as a double check when I leave to ensure anything left out, I have already duplicated in my toiletry bag.

Clothing

If I'm going for a short trip, especially if it's for work, my wardrobe is often pretty straight-forward. In the event I'm going for a longer trip or even if it is for work with some other events folded in, I need to get my head wrapped around which outfits I plan to wear when and where. This may mean I lay everything out a day or two prior so I have time to think about whether I'd really wear that together or if it's something I really need. Yes, editing can be the hardest part. Full disclaimer - I'm a carry-on only kind of traveler. I try my hardest to pack clothes that are interchangeable and can be dressed up and down with small tweaks. This does mean my suitcase is quite monochrome. Although, you can almost always be safe in an all-black ensemble for day or night - dressed up or down with accessories, of course.

And, this is where your Layering Tops come in handy! You can dress them up or down, layer them with a sweater or blazer or even wear them to bed.

Packing

I'm a huge fan of quality luggage. This has been a game-changer for me. My current suitcase has crossed cobblestones to metro stations and beyond. This is also where I go for function. I want luggage that will not only hold what I need it to - I love compartments on the front, inside, etc. - but that will stand up to my travels.

The handbag I bring varies, depending on the purpose of my trip. Sometimes, it's a small, fashionable backpack. Other times, it may be a messenger bag. And, it has even been a larger backpack where I then put a smaller handbag in my carry-on luggage. Whichever option I choose, it needs to hold my camera and essentials - hand lotion and lip moisturizer for the airplane are among those items.

Last but not least, I recommend keeping an ongoing list. I always write down essentials, such as my phone charger and sunglasses, on a piece of paper and put it right by my luggage. These are items I use so often - yet are travel essentials - they can be easily forgotten when I am trying to quickly run out of the door. 

Happy traveling!

- Aimee

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