Packing for Travel: Tips from a Professional Organizer

Topics: Spring Break, International Travel, Packing, Vacation, Travel Products, Packing Tips

If you’ve been following along on social media, you might’ve caught a glimpse of the my family’s spring break adventure abroad! Traveling to Europe with my kids was unforgettable—but like any big trip, it all starts with smart packing. I also scoured social media for the must-have products when traveling. Whether you’re jetting off for a quick weekend or an extended getaway, the key to a smoother travel experience lies in preparation and organization.

As professional organizers, we know how overwhelming packing can feel—but we also know ways to make it easier. In this blog, we’re sharing our favorite travel hacks, must-have items, and expert tips to help you stay organized before, during, and after your trip. Let’s make your next vacation feel less chaotic and a lot more enjoyable!

1. Start with a Packing List

A packing list is your secret weapon for efficient and stress-free travel. Whether you’re planning a short weekend trip or a week-long vacation, having a go-to list saves time and ensures nothing important is left behind.

Pro Tip: Use your Notes app or an app like AnyList or create a reusable checklist to keep packing simple for every trip. (Read our blog for how you can also use AnyList and other apps – we did these for meal planning but you can easily repurpose for this!)

Weekend Packing List Essentials:

• 2-3 outfits
• 1 pair of shoes (versatile options like sneakers or flats)
• Toiletries (travel-sized)
• A book or e-reader
• Lightweight outerwear, a light scarf, or shawl

Week-Long Trip Essentials:

• 7 outfits (consider picking 1-2 colors so everything is mix-and-match pieces and can be layered)
• 2-3 pairs of shoes (one pair of flats, one pair for dressier occasions, and one pair of tennis shoes that are comfortable for walking all day)
• Depending on the weather: rain jacket, lightweight coat, or warm coat
• Travel size toiletries (purchase travel bottles and fill them using your everyday products, travel hair straightener or curling iron)
• Electronics (chargers, universal travel adapters)
• A laundry bag for separating dirty clothes
• A foldable duffel (if you feel like you will need extra space for souvenirs and new purchases)

2. To Check or Carry On?

Deciding whether to check your luggage or stick with a carry-on depends on the nature of your trip:

• Carry-On: Ideal for short trips or if you want to avoid baggage fees. Use space-saving techniques like rolling clothes or packing cubes. (Check out this blog by The Orderly Space for carry-on capsule wardrobe guidance and creative use of drawer organizers for packing.)
• Checked Bags: Perfect for longer trips, families traveling together, or when bringing bulkier items. Be sure to keep essentials (like medications, valuables, and one change of clothes) in your carry-on, just in case of delays.

3. Travel-Friendly Products to Try (Including International Travel Tips)

As a professional organizer, I rely on products that simplify packing and travel. Here are a few of my favorites:

• Packing Cubes: Saves space and keeps outfits together, while the mesh helps you see exactly what’s in them.
• Clear TSA-Approved Toiletry Bags & Containers: Easily pass through security without digging through your suitcase, while keeping your favorite products on hand without the bulk.
• Shoe Bags or Covers: Protect your clothes from dirty soles.
• Luggage Scale: Make sure your bags are compliant with weight limits along each leg of your journey with a portable luggage scale.
• Cell Phone Lanyards: With heavy pickpocketing in some areas, these gave us peace of mind and helped everyone keep track of their phones.
• This Neck Pillow recommended to us by Jen of The Orderly Space
• Earplugs: Total game-changer for flights, noisy hotels, or just getting good sleep in unfamiliar places.
• Eyemask: We all know jet-lag is no joke, keep things pitch black for rest when you need it.
• This Universal Plug with Cell Phone Charger is so convenient for international travel. It also includes cell phone charging ports to simply things.

Pro Tip: Skip passport holders. During our international travel, we had to take the passports out every time we entered customs, so the holders just made things more cumbersome. Instead, consider labeling the outside of each passport with the person’s name—makes grabbing the right one so much easier!

4. Store Your Luggage in a Travel Closet

When you’re not traveling, having a dedicated space to store luggage and travel essentials can be a game-changer. A travel closet is ideal, but if you don’t have the space, consider using an over the door rack, or dedicate some space under your bathroom sink so that all your travel items will be in one place.

Here’s what to include:

• Luggage: Nest suitcases inside each other to save space.
• Travel Accessories: Use bins or drawers for packing cubes, toiletry bags, and travel pillows.
• Seasonal Gear: Store items like sleeping bags, ski gloves, beach towels, or snorkels with like-seasons for easy access.
• Small Items: Label containers for chargers, converters, and passport holders.

Pro Tip: Add hooks to hang backpacks or duffels and a shelf for smaller bags. Label everything so it’s easy to find when it’s time to pack again.

Bonus Tip: Traveling with Gifts

Traveling for the holidays or other special occasions can very exciting, but transporting gifts can add an extra layer of stress. Here’s how to keep your packing light:

• Ship Ahead: If possible, ship gifts directly to your destination to avoid lugging them through airports. Many retailers even offer gift wrapping. If you are traveling internationally, shop Duty Free! The airport had a great selection of gifts at and you won’t have to pay taxes or lug them around during your travels.
• Pack Wisely: For gifts you bring with you, skip the wrapping paper. TSA may need to inspect your bags, so pack unwrapped items and bring gift bags or tissue paper to assemble them on arrival.
• Small but Thoughtful: Opt for compact or lightweight presents like gift cards, travel-friendly games, or digital gifts.

Protect Fragile Items: Use soft clothing, scarves, or packing cubes to cushion delicate items in your suitcase.

Packing doesn’t have to be a dreaded chore. By using a packing list, investing in smart travel products, and keeping your travel items organized at home, you can enjoy a seamless start to your next adventure.

Ready to tackle your next trip? Start with these tips and consider reading our road trip travel blog. Want a travel closet and don’t know where to begin? We can help.

Happy organizing and bon voyage!