Does just the thought of packing for a trip make you anxious?  Me too.  How will I fit everything I need into a carry-on suitcase, cuz who wants to check their luggage these days — certainly not me! Between fitting in the 1,852 pairs of shoes that I absolutely must have, 42 layering options for every possible climate scenario, while making sure said suitcase doesn’t tip the airport scales and cause eye-rolling from the husband, I start to panic. Did I mention we’re traveling next week?  This particular trip has its packing challenges because we will need multiple types of clothing (and of course, shoes).

We’ll be attending a wedding in Seattle, where it appears Fall has already arrived. We’re making this trip a bit of a mini-vacation, staying a few extra days and plan on doing a little hiking, some lots of wine tasting, and ending the trip with a little sight-seeing. Over the years I’ve developed some tricks to help me pack like a pro and have everything I need.  The first thing you need is a good rolling suitcase, preferably a light-weight model.  Ever since borrowing my sister’s Delsey carry-on I’ve had my eye on getting one of my own.

This model spins, eliminating the possibility of it falling to one side when it’s upright and only weighs about seven pounds. Once you’ve decided which suitcase to use, plan your wardrobe around a neutral color (black, grey, brown or navy) and add in pops of color with shirts, scarves and other accessories. I typically choose black or grey as my neutrals. Every article I’ve ever read about packing says to take just a few bottoms and alternate with tops. I agree, this is definitely the way to go, if you can keep your pants clean! Some of us have the dropsies when eating…….

I just read about a new app called Stylebook that is designed to help you create outfits with your wardrobe so you can get the most out of what you already have in your closet. It also makes it easier to choose new pieces that will integrate well into your wardrobe. This app could really make packing a breeze with outfits already “designed” in your closet. You can simply make a few tweaks to adapt your outfits for the trip. I start with a checklist, writing down everything I plan to pack, including clothes, accessories, undergarments, toiletries/makeup, jewelry, medications, chargers, umbrellas, boarding passes, etc. — basically the whole kit and caboodle.  Then I can check off each item as I lay it out and pack it. This is also a good way to figure out if you are over-packing and where you can eliminate items.  I like to use a combination of rolling and folding, to maximize space and prevent wrinkles.

Shoes and belts

Make use of those shoe bags that you’ve inevitably saved from shoe purchases. I can typically fit one pair in one bag, unless they are boots or large shoes.  If you are packing socks stuff them inside your shoes to save space in the suitcase. Line the edges and corners of your suitcase with shoes.  While of course I was joking about the number of shoes I pack for a trip, it’s very hard not to bring at least three pairs.  And while I love to work out when traveling, those darn sneakers take up so much room in the suitcase, argh!!  Try to wear your heaviest pair of shoes on the plane (same goes for your jacket or coat). Belts can be rolled and stuck around the perimeter of the suitcase to keep other items from moving around.

Unmentionables

I would recommend either putting bras and undies in the side pockets of your suitcase (if it has them) or using a gallon or two gallon size zip loc bag so they lie flat and are easily accessible. This also keeps those pesky TSA agents from touching your unmentionables.

Jewelry

For me jewelry is the accessory I can’t live without. Hence the jewelry roll – a perfect solution to stashing my loot, keeping it safe and tangle-free. If you are bringing any valuables keep them in your purse for safety. Pants/Tee Shirts/Lightweight Sweaters

Here is where the rolling technique pays off.  Rolling saves space and reduces wrinkles.  For jeans and pants, fold them lengthwise so that the legs are stacked on top of each other. Now, starting from the bottom (cuff), roll your way up.  For tee shirts, place face down, fold arms back into a rectangle, fold lengthwise, and roll up. I actually learned this technique from my husband, who sometimes surprises me with his organizational know-how. I’ve also rolled skirts and dresses, using the same basic techniques outlined above.

Sweaters and Blouses

The square fold works best for these items. Button all buttons and lay shirts face down on a flat surface.  Smooth away any wrinkles.  Fold material in at the shoulders and lay arms flat along the body so that you create a roughly two-inch overlap of material on both sides.  Now fold up a third of  the material from the bottom and overlap a third from the top.  You are now qualified to work at the Gap!!

Toiletries/Makeup

I’ve become a big fan of the hanging dop-kit.  It’s rare that there isn’t a towel rack or hook upon which to hang it and having everything in one easy, roll-up container is such a breeze.

Electronics/Chargers

For many of us, our “devices” and their associated chargers are the most important items not to forget when packing. Chargers and earbuds can be stuffed into a corner in the suitcase or if you feel more secure put them in an old eyeglass case and keep in your purse.

If bringing a laptop or iPad please use a padded case to keep it safe in the off chance you drop it.  Personally, I love bringing my ipad on trips instead of books to eliminate the weight while allowing me to check email on something larger than my smartphone.

Time to start planning my wardrobe for the Seattle trip — eeks – anyone have a Xanax??  Just kidding.  I will definitely be shoe-challenged and constantly checking weather.com before actually packing.