Packing List and Tips: Holiday Edition

First up, I have 10 general tips based on my packing procedure.  This is followed by a 5 bonus tips for winter holiday travel.  Happy trails!

General tips:

1. This probably goes without saying, but start from a list. This ensures you don’t bring too much or forget something important.  I have a list going well before I start packing so that I can add specific items to it as they occur to me.  Check out my ultimate packing list in the image above!
2. You’ll need one outfit per day, plus outfits for any special occasions. I usually pack one extra, just in case.
3. I start with pieces I’m excited to wear (new sweater, dress, etc.) Then build outfits from there.  This is also when I plan outfits for special occasions (i.e. Christmas dinner or other events).
4. Next, I prune. I figure out which pieces can mix and match to keep the same number of outfits but cut down on the number of items.  For each pair of pants, I typically pack two tops.
5. Plan out what you’ll wear on the plane. These are clothes you are effectively packing.  For wintertime, I usually wear a large sweater that could take up lots of room in the suitcase.
6. Pick out a couple pairs of shoes to go with most of your outfits. Since shoes, especially boots, take up so much space, try picking out one casual and one dressier pair if you need to condense.  Be selective, but make sure you have comfortable walking shoes no matter what.  Wear whichever pair takes up the most room on the plane.  Only add in additional shoes if everything else fits.
7. I always make sure to have a warm sweater or sweatshirt no matter where I’m going. This is another good item to set aside and wear on the plane.
8. Bring a small bag or purse to use at your destination. I usually bring a large bag or backpack on the plane but don’t necessarily want to carry that around once I arrive, so I’ve taken to always packing a small one.
9. For toiletries and personal products, pick up travel-size containers from places like the Container Store, Amazon, or drugstores. For avoiding leaks, I prefer those with a screw cap rather than a flip top.  Label these with a Sharpie so you don’t forget what’s in each one.
10. Departure-time checklist:
    1. Clean out fridge.
    2. Take out trash and recycling.
    3. Water plants.
    4. Turn off alarm clock.
    5. Adjust thermostat.
    6. Check for wallet, ID/passport, phone, keys, travel info. You’re good to go!

Bonus tips for the holiday season and winter travel:

1. Try rolling sweaters or using plastic travel bags. Look for some that don’t require a vacuum like these in case you don’t find a vacuum at your destination.
2. If you’re staying with family for the holidays, see if you can borrow things like shampoo or a hair dryer so you don’t have to bring your own.
3. Holiday travel often includes presents, which can throw a wrench in your beautifully packed suitcase. If possible, ship online orders directly to your destination or consider buying there.  If you’re packing them, wrap gifts in clothes or tuck them in shoes for more padding and protection.  If you’re worried about the way your suitcase will be handled, you can always carry a gift directly on the plane and tuck it beneath the seat.
4. Slide a reusable grocery bag into your suitcase. It takes up very little space but is sturdy enough in a pinch.  It gives you some backup in case your checked bag is too heavy or someone gifts you something you have to find a way to bring back.
5. Don’t forget your winter accessories – scarves, gloves, hats, or anything else you may need for a winter excursion.