Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, let’s face it, you probably don’t like packing. Packing can be overwhelming and frustrating, especially with all the new travel regulations and insane baggage fees. But not to worry, over the years we have written some helpful articles on how to pack, what to pack, and pro packing tips. We are recapping our most helpful packing tips (plus giving you a few NEW extras) in this packing tips roundup!
In our Packing Tips & Tricks article, we cover the importance of packing essentials in a limited amount of space. Our go-to rule of thumb is the 1-2-3-4-5-6 Rule: 1 hat/accessory, 2 pairs of shoes, 3 pairs of pants (skirts or shorts), 4 shirts, 5 pairs of socks, and 6 undergarments. Here are a few other key takeaways:
This one is for the fellas and covers the essential list of garments men need when traveling – and they’ll all fit in your carry-on! The list includes underwear, undershirts, 2 tees, 4 dress shirts, 1 sweater, 1 suit, 1 pair of jeans, 2 pairs of dress pants, 2 pairs of shoes, toiletries, and accessories. The key here is to pack things you can mix and match. Remember you can always launder your garments while traveling (stay at InTown Suites and use our guest laundry facilities).
Don’t worry ladies, we’ve got you covered too with our What to Pack for a Week of Business Travel in a Carry-On for Women. Aside from the list of garments like 1 LBD, 1 tailored blazer, 1 pair of jeans, etc –there are some real pro-tips. When packing your makeup, opt for a palette that includes neutrals and fits in the palm of your hand, instead of packing your whole kit-and-caboodle!
Are you picking up on a theme here? Packing light seems to be the trend when it comes to traveling –especially if you’re trying to avoid those high-priced overweight baggage fees. As a matter of fact, our #1 tip from our Tips for Packing Light on Extended Stays article is to choose lightweight luggage, that way you can squeeze just a little extra into your bag without worrying about it being overweight. Another pro-tip from this article is to pack fabrics that are lightweight, neutral in color (so you can mix and match), and easy to layer if its chilly!
Now, our How to Pack for an Extended Stay article not only gives you some insight on what to pack, but it also gives you insight on what NOT to pack! Two tips that will change how you pack are, one, ditch your “just in case” items, and two, rein in the shoes. Ditching your “just in case” items will surely help you pack lighter and smarter; if you happen to need something you didn’t bring, you can always purchase it while you’re on your trip! Reining in the shoes is also essential when trying to conserve packing space. We say go for 2 pairs max, 1 comfortable pair and a dressier pair, both should be able to be worn with multiple outfits.
We promised we would sprinkle in a few NEW extra pro-tips during this round-up, so be sure to take these into consideration when packing for your next trip!