With all the travel I do and all the packing I do for clients – I should be able to pack for myself in record time, but this is not the… case. 😉 However, I have found a number of items that make packing slightly easier by helping you maximize capacity and organization while preventing wrinkles and temporary insanity.
For any trip longer than three days, I use Knock Knock’s PACK THIS! notepad to help me think through weather, special events, and all the items I may need or want to bring. These few minutes make the task much more manageable. Once my list is done, I put everything I may want to bring on my bed and then edit along the way. I do toiletries first because that is usually/mostly ready to go from the last trip. Outerwear and shoes are next because those take up the most space – and as you may know from working with me – I typically build outfits from the ground up. So once I know what shoes are making the trip, the outfits practically build themselves. Accessories, workout clothes, and pajamas are next, and finally any trip-specific or work-related items.
I put off buying Eagle Creek Pack-IT cubes for a bit because they seemed counterintuitive. How could having more things to pack make it easier? But once I succumbed, I wish I had done it sooner. The Garment Folder L is a game changer for blouses and lightweight knits (pack knits on the bottom). For suitcases and bags, I am always looking for great functionality and design. It has to be comfortable, flexible, high quality, look good, and anything but black is easier to spot. I want something that can be repaired if it takes too many beatings on cobblestone roads or during airport baggage handling. And I’ll only buy a carry-on bag that provides quick access to my laptop, chargers, and a book.
Wherever you go, whatever you pack, hopefully these make great travel companions.
PRODUCTS
(clockwise from top left)
Knock Knock Pack This Note Pad ($12.99)
Eagle Creek Pack-It Starter Set ($55)
Toiletry Bags:
I like when I can open my toiletries and see it all at once.
These are three great options:
1. Etoile Jet Setter Travel Case ($95)
2. Katadem Travel Bag ($23.99)
3. Lay-N-Go Cosmetic Bag ($29.95)
Not pictured: an additional option for those who like to hang their toiletry bag: State Benson Toiletry Kit ($68)
Away Large Flex 29″ Luggage ($425)
I have the Away Large and very much wish I had bought the Large Flex. I did not buy the Flex because I feared I would constantly be overweight at check-in, but my love of chunky sweaters n e e d s space and they aren’t that heavy. My mistake! FYI – my Away bag did need to be repaired and they were awesome about it.
Arlo Skye 23″ Zipper Carry-On Max with Front Pocket ($395)
Lightweight with a hard exterior. Front pocket fits a 15” laptop, a pullover or scarf, and in-flight essentials. Charges phone in 1-hr with USB-C and -A ports.
Beis 19″ Weekender Bag ($108)
For weekends or extended travel, with a bottom compartment for shoes and extra pockets for a laptop and other travel essentials. Features a trolley-sleeve to fit over a rolling-luggage handle.
