Hit the Road in Style. Top Tips and the Best Packing Lists for an Unforgettable Trip.
Regardless of your level of travel expertise, a well-packed bag paves the way for smooth sailing, happy campers, and friendly skies. Whether your focus is zen-like relaxation, a weekend retreat, adventure seeking, or sealing deals, our inclusive travel tips, and packing checklists will help you get the most out of your miles.
10 Tips From Travel Professionals
Make a Packing List and Check it Twice
Because every journey is a new adventure, we recommend starting a detailed packing list at least one week prior to your departure. Keep your notepad or phone handy and jot (or tap) down ideas as they occur to you.
To get you rolling, we developed specialized packing lists for weekend getaways, extended vacations, international excursions, and family affairs (because traveling with kids is a world unto its own).
Pack Like a Pro
Knowing what to pack is only half the battle. Knowing how to pack is where it’s at. Seasoned travelers know that finding a color palette that allows for mix-and-matching is the ways to go. Avoid possible stains by turning clothing inside out. And everyone knows that folding is for newbies, right? Instead of focusing on Gap-like edges, tuck and roll. This way you’ll maximize suitcase space and minimize wrinkles.
Keep it Clean
Hotel showers are one of the unsung wonders of travel. From the Holiday Inn Express off the Interstate to the downtown Ritz, a miraculous and unending supply of luxuriously hot water is a delightful hallmark of travel. While you’re keeping it clean on the road, do yourself a favor and stash a couple of plastic bags into your suitcase for your second pair of shoes and your dirty laundry.
Treat Your Cords Like Toiletries
We’ve all been behind that disheveled traveler who spends a frantic 10 minutes emptying his bag and his pockets, rummaging around for adapters, chargers, electronic devices, and earbuds, right? Make sure you’re not that guy: pack your gadgets as you’d pack your toiletries: in a nice, clear ziplock baggie.
Slow and Steady Wins the Race
The instinct to be the first in line is fierce when you’re competing for space in airports, besting left turn arrows, and waiting for your overpriced cappuccino in the hotel lobby. Here’s a little secret: all those people competing for space at the head of the boarding line, racing through lights and elbowing fellow caffeine addicts out of their path? They all arrive at their destination at (more or less) the same time. Sit back, take a sip of that coffee, and enjoy the show.
Money Smarts
Avoid flashing cash on a trip and get creative with stowing your valuables. Use empty travel-size containers to hide your cash on beaches and disguise your valuables while in the hotel.
Watch the Sunrise
This one might be tough for those who relish a nice lie-in. But waking up with the birds is a great way to start the day right. Enjoy tourist attractions while avoiding the crowds, nab the best danish at the hotel buffet, take the best travel photos. And rest easy knowing that most of the sketchy types out to ruin a good time are having a sleep-in of their own.
Live Like Nobody’s Looking
Travel is a great way to leave your inhibitions behind and to be your truest self. Ask questions, be curious, experience life to its fullest, and see the world through clear eyes. Remind yourself that travel is a journey full of distinct and memorable moments.
Take a Time Out
Whether you’re on a business trip, visiting Philadelphia for the 14th time or you’re on the destination vacation of a lifetime, find a bench, a patch of sand, or a mountaintop and watch the world turn. Pay attention to the sights, sounds, smells and the textures of the world and people around you.
