If you’re a female traveler, packing can involve a ton of overthinking. What if I spill something on a favorite dress? It’s warm in the day but nippy at night. What should I carry then? How much? We feel your pain. We need enough for every eventuality, right? And there must be enough room in the luggage to carry back things too. Thankfully, packing almost always becomes a breeze with frequent traveling. Here are a few packing hacks that can save you time, luggage space, and last-minute packing anxiety.
Always Carry scarves
“A towel is about the most massively useful thing an interstellar hitchhiker can have.” Douglas Adams was definitely on to something in his “Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy.” For female travelers in this world, sarongs, scarves, or lungis work just as well. They can cover you up when it’s cold or cover your head at religious monuments. Use them at the beach, pool, or almost anywhere.
Plan Outfits
It may seem easy to pack all of your favorite things – tops, shorts, dresses, pants. But you may forget other essentials – for instance, the right slip to go with a tank or dress. For shorter trips, set out each outfit and its accompanying ensemble – shoes, accessories. If it’s a longer trip, plan a complete set for about 12 days with options to mix, match, and layer after that. Also, if you’ve never worn something before, don’t pack it at all.
Ditch the Hair Tools
Unless you plan to stay indoors, hair straighteners and curlers won’t do much for you on the road. Styling hair takes up time. Leave the tools at home and pick up compact bottles of spray to set your hair instead. Bonus points if the product is organic and cruelty-free.
Packing Cubes
Packing cubes can help you organize items neatly in your luggage. What’s more, they make it easy to identify and locate items without ruffling through layers of clothing. If possible, pack items in the order you may need them – with things you will regularly use placed at the top of the pile.
Use Shower Caps or Bags to Store Shoes
Store muddy shoes inside shower caps or carry bags before stashing them inside your luggage. Enclosing your shoes will help keep the suitcase or backpack clean.
Purses
Carry a purse or two in neutral colors that go with all your outfit combinations. They’re helpful for when you don’t want to lug your backpack or daypack around.
A Bag for Electronics
Avoid tangled, messy wires coiled inside your backpack. Keep all electronics inside a packing cube or designated bag for easy access. Make sure to wrap cords gently so that they don’t break.