Last week, I shared tips on how to pack everything into just a carry-on. But sometimes, checking a bag is unavoidable—or even preferable—when traveling. Whether you have to check luggage or choose to, it’s crucial to stay organized to ensure everyone has what they need, even if a piece of luggage gets lost in transit.
Here are my top 5 ways to organize luggage when traveling as a couple or family:
1. Use Packing Cubes for Each Person
Packing cubes are a fantastic way to keep everyone’s belongings organized. Assign a different color or pattern to each family member, and pack a few outfits in each cube. Then, disperse these cubes across all the checked bags. This way, no one will be completely without a change of clothes if a bag gets delayed or lost.
Quick Tip: For even more organization, label each cube with its contents or the person’s name, making unpacking at your destination a breeze.
2. Create a Shared Toiletry Bag
Instead of each person bringing their own toiletries, streamline your packing by creating a shared family toiletry bag. Opt for a bag with multiple compartments to keep everything—from toothbrushes to shampoo—in one organized spot. This method saves space and prevents overpacking duplicate items. Pack this in a bag that you’ll keep with you on the plane.
Quick Tip: Use travel-sized containers and refill them as needed. Choose a bag that can hang in the bathroom for easy access, especially when space is tight.
3. Roll, Don't Fold
Rolling your clothes instead of folding them can make a huge difference in how much you can fit in your suitcase. Not only does rolling save space, but it also helps reduce wrinkles. Consider rolling clothes into complete outfits to make dressing easier, especially for kids.
Quick Tip: Place bulkier rolled items at the bottom of your suitcase and fill the gaps with smaller, rolled pieces to maximize space.
4. Designate an "Essentials" Pouch
Create a go-to pouch for items that everyone will need during the trip, such as chargers, adapters, medications, or snacks. Keep this pouch in an easily accessible part of the suitcase or carry-on bag to avoid last-minute searches.
Quick Tip: Use a clear, waterproof pouch to keep everything visible and protected from any potential spills or leaks.
5. Plan for Laundry
Having a plan for dirty laundry is essential, especially for longer trips. Pack a collapsible laundry bag or large ziplock bags in each suitcase to keep soiled clothes separate from clean ones. If laundry facilities are available, this makes it easier to transport dirty clothes and stay on top of washing.
Quick Tip: Separate laundry by load in your suitcases so that once you get home, you can simply open a suitcase and put everything straight into the washer. This makes unpacking much easier.
By staying organized with these packing strategies, you’ll reduce stress, save time, and ensure that everyone has what they need for a smooth and enjoyable trip.
Ready to make your next vacation even more seamless? Reach out to me for personalized travel planning tips, or let’s start planning your next getaway together.
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