As I prepare for my trip to California (and let me tell you I have been like a 4 year old waiting for Santa Claus as this trip draws near), I am working on my packing checklist.  I have been on too many trips where I realize too late that I forgot something I had intended to pack.  To help reduce the occurrence of those “I can’t believe I forgot to pack…” moments I have started to compile lists ahead of time.  I’ll start my list anywhere from a few days to a couple weeks in advance of the trip.  The benefit to starting a little earlier than you might otherwise consider is that it gives you time to go through  your daily routine and add the items to your list that may have created that “I can’t believe I forgot to pack…” moment.

Start packing closer to the 36 to 48 hour range prior to your departure rather than the 24 hours or less most of us allow ourselves.  This cuts back on forgotten items but more importantly allows you time to do a load of laundry if you realize an article or two of clothing you were planning to pack is sitting in the dirty clothes pile.  Even if you are planning a trip to a hot sunny location, pack a sweater or sweatshirt.  You never know when it could be unseasonably cool, if the AC is on too high, or if you earned a sunburn so great that you have chills.  When in doubt, layer!

The number one tip I’ve learned from other seasoned travelers is to roll your clothes.  Not only is this a space saving tip for your suitcase but it also keeps you from breaking out the ironing board when you arrive at your destination.  Another space saver brings me back to my point about packing layers.  Not only does this mean you will be comfortable in just about all types of weather but you will also be able to mix and match pieces to create different outfits each day based on your activities (and yes guys, even wearing a t-shirt with jeans counts as an outfit).

I have also learned to pack at least one plastic bag, the type you get from the grocery store.  You can put dirty clothes in the bag, muddy shoes, wet bathing suit, whatever you want to keep separated from the rest of your clothing.

You’ll want to pack your shoes as far away from the rest of your clothing as possible or wrap them in bags.  Not only do you not want them to dirty your clothes before you even get to wear them, but when going through airport security this will help stop them from digging through and messing up your organization.  Shoes are one of the primary items they focus on.

Anything along the lines of a comb or curling iron can be packing in between your clothes or along the sides of your suitcase.  You can do the same with belts and ties, just be sure to roll them first!

I’m always looking for new and improved tips for packing so please feel free to leave a comment with your best tip.