Vacation season is exciting, but packing and unpacking can quickly become stressful without a plan. Between overpacked suitcases, misplaced travel items, and laundry piling up after returning home, vacations can leave families feeling disorganized before they even settle back in.
A few simple systems can make travel feel smoother from start to finish. Here are a few easy ways to stay organized while traveling:
Pack by Category
One of the things my family struggles with is waiting until the last minute to pack. But if you have tools to keep your suitcases and bags organized, that is a great first step. Packing cubes, zipper bags, or just separating sections makes the packing easier to tackle step by step. And once everything is grouped, it is easier to find later on.
Pack Lighter Than You Think You Need
Even for those of us who tend to procrastinate when it comes to packing, weather apps are your best friend. By checking the weather ahead of time, you can plan versatile and multi-functional outfits. When you overpack, the preparation becomes a chore instead of a fun pre-game for the vacation. Plan ahead as best as you can and pack light.
BONUS TIP: It also leaves more room to return with gifts and souvenirs.
Keep Travel Essentials Together
When it comes to organizing your packing between large suitcases and smaller backpacks or purses, prioritize how you are packing based on what you will need access to most. Don't put phone chargers, wallets, or passports in the large suitcase. Likewise, there probably isn't a need to keep extra pairs of shoes in your backpack if you know you don't need it. By keeping the essentials together, you give yourself peace of mind to not frantically search for things out of place.
Unpack Within 24 Hours of Returning Home
Instead of living out of a suitcase for the next week, encourage everyone to unpack right away. Start with dirty laundry and toiletries first to help the home feel reset faster. Turn it into a game with your family members. Rewards for those who unpack first, fun punishments for the last one to unpack. The quicker you can reset to being at home, the easier it is to relish in the trip that was taken and excitedly look forward to the next one.
A little preparation before vacation, and a quick unpacking routine afterward, can help families enjoy their trips without bringing home extra stress and clutter.
Need help organizing your home before or after a trip? Book a consultation with our team and let us help you create systems that keep your home running smoothly — even when you're away.