Organized Travel

Summer is here! For most people that means vacation! Traveling can be fun and stressful at the same time. Here are some tips that I have found helpful:

Less is more! In this case, less of one item translates into more space in the suitcase for other items. Now more then ever, drugstores and discount chains are offering a large variety of travel sized items. If you can't find what you need, improvise! I don't tend to have much luck with those general empty plastic travel containers: either they leak or break. I tend to purchase travel sized items similar to what I need then empty the contents so I can reuse the container. These containers seem to be more durable because they are designed to be pre-filled with the contents they are intended to hold (also use travel sized bottles you receive from hotels). I am a big fan of Ziploc bags. These can be used for just about anything from storing pill bottles to Q-tips.

About a month before your vacation, take an inventory of what travel sized toiletries you might need. When you head to the grocery or drugstore, look for your containers (either pre-filled or empty). If I see a unique travel sized item I purchase it whether or not I have a trip planned soon. This helps alleviate some of the stress of searching for necessities at the last minute. When I return home from my trip, I refill any toiletries that are low and leave them in my carry on bag. That way, everything is ready for my next trip. It is also helpful if I need to travel unexpectedly.

BYOB! In this case, BYOB stands for bring your own bottled water/bagged snacks if at all possible. Purchase some powdered drink packets ahead of time so that you and other family members can customize their own water. This will help cut down on the amount of beverages you need to purchase at your destination. I myself am traveling this week and noticed that the price for one bottled water is $1.39. This can quickly add up to a large sum of money in a short period of time. Also bring along tea bags, instant coffee, hot cocoa mix and utilize the in room coffee maker for heating water. As far as bagged snacks, there is a large variety available on the market. I prefer to make my own using small Ziploc bags.

Plan out your meals ahead of time! The internet allows us to access a large variety of menus online. Researching the menus of nearby restaurants not only helps you stay within your dining budget but can be beneficial when trying to plan for special dietary needs. Make sure to take advantage of the free breakfast offerred by many hotels. Many are also starting to offer free cookies for an afternoon snack. A little planning goes a long way and can prevent having to use room service.

Expect the Unexpected! No vacation will be perfect. Pack a first aid kit for little emergencies. Some ideas on what to include in addition to the standard supplies are over the counter pain relievers, antacids, anti diarrhea medications, and aloe vera gel. Baby wipes, extra hand sanitizer and a portable laundry stain pen are also helpful additions.

Unleash Your Organized Me!