I’m getting ready for a girls trip – a bachelorette weekend for my best friend. I’m a classic over-packer – I like to have multiple options. As I’ve gotten older though, and now I also have to pack for my son when it’s a family trip, I’ve learned to find some organizational tricks and tips. This post isn’t so much what to wear, but how to pack it!

• Capsule wardrobe – I know I said I wouldn’t be saying what to pack, but I’d be remiss if I didn’t start with this tip. I check the weather and pick outfits accordingly. I like to have an idea of the activities I’ll be doing so I pick pieces that work well together. Think: Solids tops, neutral bottoms and accessories to jazz up your outfits. Color schemes help. I also suggest trying outfits beforehand, snapping a photo on your phone and then creating an album – then you have a whole selection of pre-paired outfits. Easy peasy!
• Bags IN your bags! – I thought these were silly but once I bought them – WHOA. Totally changes how I pack! Bras and undies in one, tanks and spanx in another, shirts and delicates that I don’t need to hang… And then bulkier items in the luggage.
• Shower caps around shoes. Sounds weird, but it’s an amazing idea! I get a pack of shower caps and then I can toss them out, and grab the new ones from the hotel room. (100 for $8? SOLD.)
• I use the method of “bundling“. It’s the ONLY way I pack. It’s AMAZING – look it up. (Video linked here!)
• Travel bags – find a great bag that wears well and fits the requirements of a carry-on! Bags called “weekenders” typically do the trick; just double check measurements. Websites and product information will usually say if the bag is great as a carry-on! Here are a few of my favorites!
  Retro Metro Weekender (This is the one I have, with my initials on it!)
  Traveler’s Club Turquoise Carry-On
  It Luggage Carry-On

All in all, it helps to have a tentative plan, pack a few extras if you can and stay organized and stress free. This means you can focus on the fun stuff – having fun! I always leave room in my purse or backpack for souvenirs! What’s your best travel tip?

As mentioned above:

Organizing bags:

Shower caps: