Packing Tips

Hi friends!

I've safely arrived in Chicago!  Let the adventures begin!
Since I'm a bit of a globe trotter, I figured I'd share some packing advice with you today.  I used to be completely crap at packing.  When I was 13 I went to France with my Aunt's family to visit our relatives and babysit my cousins.  I brought the BIGGEST suitcase ever and everyone made fun of me.  Plus, it was a huge pain to drag around public transport.  Since then, I have learned how to travel the world with less baggage!

Kelly's Tips for Packing

1. Mini toiletries are overrated.  If you have lion's mane hair like me, you know one travel sized bottle of conditioner will only last one wash.  But the big bottles are risky - what if they leak?  You could tape them shut and put them in plastic bags, but why not try using Lush products instead?  I LOVE their solid shampoo and conditioner - there is no chance of it exploding, and it takes up less valuable packing space!  They also have solid moisturizers.  Score!
2. I have a lot of make-up, but most days I stick to the same basic products.  There is no need to pack 5 different shades of blush.  Your normal make-up routine will work fine on vacation too.
3. When packing clothes keep a few things in mind...
1. If you never wear it at home for whatever reason, do NOT pack it.
2. Plan your outfits ahead of time.  I have my bachelorette party outfit planned, as well as a few others so I don't over pack.  
3. Check the weather!  When I went to Africa I assumed it would be hot so I brought a bunch of shorts, turns out I was there during the dry season and it was pretty cold!
4. Roll your clothes.  This is a huge space saving technique and helps prevent wrinkles.
4. I'm not much of a shoe girl, but even if I were - a pair of sneakers, a pair of sandles, and a couple pairs of dressy shoes should do the trick for most places I go.
5. Don't forget, the inside of your shoes is valuable packing space!  I often shove small T's and socks into my sneakers, pumps, and boots.  
6. Get yourself a travel jewelry bag.  I used to actually bring a small jewelry box with me!  Can you believe that?  It really weighed down my suitcase, and it caused me to go over weight a few times resulting in a frantic "what can I get rid of" ordeal at the check in.  This clothe jewelry bag works great!

Note: I would never put my wedding rings in my packed luggage, I put them there for illustration purposes only!

It even folds up for more convenient packing.

7. Speaking of going over weight - make sure you weigh your bag before you leave.  I try to leave 5 pounds worth of wiggle room, because the scales may not be calibrated exactly and I usually throw a few things in at the very last minute.
8.  The majority things you might pack are not essential to remember.  As long as you have your passport, you can probably pick up whatever it is you've forgotten when you get to your destination.  The things I tend to forget that are a hassle to buy are chargers!  Don't forget your camera or your phone charger, and if you're going to a remote location, you may want to invest in a few electrical adapters before you go.
9. Your carry on luggage should be light and portable.  Shopping in international terminals can land you some good bargains and help pass the time, but if your carry on is too heavy you'll want to sit instead of shop.

10.  Don't forget to bring a hostess gift if you are staying with someone!

Happy vacations and travelling to everyone!

xoxo

Kelly