How to Pack Light for Summer Trips

“When preparing to travel, lay out all your clothes and all your money. Then take half the clothes and twice the money” – Susan Heller

 You can avoid checking your bags and save money, time, and hassle, and be much more mobile during your trip if you make yourself pack more lightly and strategically for your summer trips.

Here are your pack light tips for summer trips;

Make a list before you start

The phrase “use a packing list” is repeated frequently. But in my opinion, this doesn't mean just duplicating packing lists word for word from the internet. You'll probably overpack if you use this strategy. Just pack what feels most practical for your vacation because most packing lists out there are padded with extra items to be the “most complete” (or to market things). To be reminded the next time you travel, you can create your own unique packing list, which you can later update based on your experiences.

Don't take too many shoes

You might be tempted to bring a variety of shoes when you head for summer trips, but a good rule of thumb is to only bring two pairs (we know, how you will choose?). Put one pair on for the flight and one extra pair, preferably a pair that won't take up much space, in your suitcase. Make sure to pack a comfortable pair of shoes for when you visit a new city or nation. A blister on your feet can be the worst thing that can happen on a day of travel. A second pair of more elegant shoes or flip-flops is usually a good idea to include in your checked suitcase.

Be low on toiletries

In the majority of situations, you will need to cram everything into a clear, quart-sized bag. Consider the things you use every day to prepare for the day and to use just before you go to bed. Do not bring anything unless you absolutely must have it for your trip. Investing in 3 oz. travel-sized goods or containers that you can use again and again between trips may be a good idea. You shouldn't pack these goods because hotels typically provide shampoo, conditioner, lotion, and body wash. To save even more room, share your supplies for the shower with a friend if you're going on a trip.

Pack according to the 1-2-3-4-5-6 rule

One cap, two pairs of shoes, three bottoms, four tops (short or long sleeve or outer layer), five pairs of socks, and six sets of inners are the recommended packing list. You should have enough for two weeks with this. Additionally, make sure to add swimwear, rain gear, and other trip-related things to your packing list. This would last you six days before you need to do laundry, though you might not need it all (pack even less if you can). No matter how long your journey, aim to pack no more than a week's worth of clothes. Learn to wear garments multiple times (no one notices or cares). Plan to wash laundry while traveling as well.

Pick neutral colors

To make it straightforward to pair various shirts and bottoms for outfit combinations, stick to a limited color palette. When you go out to dinner, black and deeper hues typically look more upscale and last longer than light hues. Use a bandana or Buff neckwear to add some color.

Leave your laptop at home

Don't bring your laptop if you won't need it. Today's smartphones perform all of a computer's functions while using a lot less space. A tablet or e-reader filled with literature, music, and maps can save volume and weight.

Pick the right luggage

Consider a simple, light idea. Try to limit your carry-on luggage to one. Although that might not always be feasible, push yourself to start small and make it work. Avoid using a bag that is bigger than you need to since you could be tempted to fill it. Depending on the type of trip you're on and what you'll be doing there, you'll need the appropriate luggage. Usually, for summer trips, it is easier to fit in clothes as they are lightweight and easy to carry, so small luggage can also work.

Use packing organizer

To save space and keep your belongings tidy, roll your clothing and use packing cubes, stuff sacks, compression bags, or inexpensive zip-top bags. Using packing organizers makes it simpler to locate the item you need fast without having to dig around in your suitcase. Compression sacks reduce the volume of items by sucking out additional air, but be careful not to overpack and end up with greater weight. Stuff bags may fit more comfortably in a travel backpack than rectangular packing cubes.

Planning is all you need for summer trips to pack light. It is best to pack at least a day ahead of your departure. If you attempt to pack right before departure, you run the risk of hurriedly stuffing your luggage with unnecessary items. Hope these tips for your summer trips help you pack lighter in real time.