It’s that time of year for many to be preparing for a summer vacation. Whether you are heading out for a 2-week trip or just escaping for a weekend, getting organized for the trip can be a little overwhelming. Here are a few tips to consider as you get started with your preparations:

• Start a “trip file.” Whether it is a manila folder or a large envelope, create a place where you can keep all of the important papers you will need. This packet of information will travel with you, so consider storing your trip itinerary, passports, hotel and car rental information, flight information and other important contact lists. I suggest you also photocopy important documents, such as your passport and driver’s license, the credit cards you’ll be taking and trip contact information and your itinerary. Take a copy of this along with you and leave a copy with a trusted friend or family member while you are away.
• Create a trip “space” in your house. This may be a basket or bin or just a particular “corner” in an unused area of your home. This is where you can begin to put items you want to remember to take such as books, snacks, your camera or toiletries–anything that crosses your mind! Grab these items now and place them all together so you won’t be overwhelmed later.
• Create packing lists for each family member and a checklist of things to do before you leave. You can access my  Travel Prep List here! These can also be kept in your travel file.
• Begin packing early and only pack what you absolutely need. If possible, save a little space for items you may purchase on your trip.
• Many items can be packed into plastic zipper bags to help keep your suitcase clean and organized. Items such as underwear, toiletries, sneakers and cords and chargers are great things to consider packing this way. Throw in a few extra bags for dirty clothing and other items you may accumulate.
• Many items travel better if they are rolled. Fold shirts in half and fold over the sleeves. Begin at the bottom and tightly roll the shirt up. Several t-shirts rolled this way will fit into a gallon zipper bag and make it easy to find just what you want without disturbing the other items.
• Socks, belts and other small items can be store inside shoes. Think “nest it” when choosing the best location for everything.
• Be sure to pack your “less-than-3 oz” liquid items in their own quart-size bag and place them in an easy-to-access outside compartment if you are flying. This will  help you feel less harried and make everyone behind you in the security line happy, too!
• Shoes usually take up the most space when packing. Try to limit the number of pairs of shoes and plan your wardrobe around those shoes. If you can take only brown shoes and plan clothing around that, you will save the bulk of that extra pair of black shoes and it will help you take less over-all. You usually can remove about half of what you think you need to take and be just fine!
• A few items that I never travel without:  a nightlight, safety pins, needle and thread, bandaids, hand wipes/anti-bacterial gel, tissues and a good book!

For more information on preparing for a trip, be sure to listen to Show #41 on The Organized Woman Show!

Have a wonderful trip–enjoy the moments and leave your cares at home!