How to pack for a short trip

I like to pretend that I am extremely well-traveled and that I know everything about it. I don’t. But two nights ago I had to help my sister pack for her trip to Colorado. (I know, I think its crazy too.) And while I was helping her pack I realized that I’m pretty awesome at it. Particularly at fitting a massive amount of stuff into a carry on.   

Step one: Plan out how long you will be gone for. If it is a normal trip you will need one outfit per day. Take layers. If you are going to Europe don’t wear things with words on them, they scream that you are an American and a tourist and no self-respecting European can stand that. Trust me, I learned the hard way. In summer bring shorts and pants no matter where you are going and in winter bring coats, a hat and gloves.

Step two: Plan one or two fancy outfits. It’s a good back up.

Step three: Decide what shoes are comfortable and not hideous. Those’ll do. Then bring one pair that is not so comfortable but better looking. Don’t bring more than three pairs. Just don’t.

Step four: Gather all of your toiletries and always bring sunscreen if you are in danger of becoming a lobster like me or don’t want to get skin cancer. Put all of the liquids in a court size bag and put them in your purse/most accessible thing when you are tripping around security trying to take off your sweater, watch and shoes at the same time. Put the rest of the stuff in another bag.

Step five: Gather anything else you have to have. This actually means have to have and not every book and movie you can find as my sister believes.

Step six: Lay everything out on your bed or floor or something. Start with what you won’t need the most and put the most necessary items on the top. Put your shoes in bags or something and throw and extra bag in there for dirty laundry. Roll your clothes instead of folding them because you can fit in more and they get fewer wrinkles.

Step seven: This is what I have the most trouble with. Leave space for whatever it is that you will most definitely buy while you are on your trip.

Step eight: Lay everything out. Make sure your passport/id, tickets and wallet are in your purse or whatever you are carrying. Don’t forget your phone or keys or any of that important stuff and throw in a snack that will not be taken from you at security. Lay out your travel clothes and stuff and put everything in one place. Don’t forget to set your alarm so all of that was not for nothing.

*Last year when we were getting ready to go to Spain my teacher gave me a good tip. Pick one color for your trip and plan all of your outfits based on that color. Its easier that way.