Packing Tips for Your Next Vacation

Confession:  I have recently realized that I am the worst packer ever.  My husband travels for business a lot and has packing down to a science – he can be packed for our vacation in 10 minutes flat.  Somehow I am still trying to remember everything and fit it all in my suitcase, three hours later.  In a fit of frustration, I did some searching for packing tips, and Gadling came to my rescue. 

Below are a few tips that I plan to try next time:

• When packing for a long trip, place the items that will be least used (or used last) in the bottom of your luggage to eliminate “bag rummage” as you travel.
• Rather than packing a full-sized bottle of perfume, spritz cotton balls and place in a ziploc bag.  Rub on later as you travel.  Much smaller…  and less risky!
• Pack one suitcase inside another.  This allows for an easy return home with all the souvenirs you’ve accumulated on vacation.  Make sure one of the suitcases is carry-on size, so you’ll only have to pay the fees for one bag.
• Keep a “forever-packed” travel bag.  Fill your toiletry bag with travel-sized versions of all the basics.  When you return from a trip, refill it before you put it away to allow for easy packing next time.
• Spread your clothes among several suitcases.  If you are traveling as a family, don’t have a separate suitcase for mom, dad and each child.  Pack each suitcase with at least one outfit for each member of the family.  Then, if any of your luggage gets lost, you’ll still have some essentials to tide you over.

Does anyone out there have other packing tips for me?  I could really use the help…