It's August - The Great Packing Saga!

Wardrobes full and still deficient for a vacation?

Welcome to the packer's dilemma!

Frankly, packing for me is the least favorite part of traveling. I always end up feeling disillusioned, dazed and disoriented. My wardrobe would be spilling with outfits and yet I feel as if I haven't got anything good to wear.

I conducted a quick survey with my friends and readers on Instagram, and 80% of the respondents said they feel the same way about packing. I call it the "Packer's Dilemma". And you would be suffering from it too, if you ask the following questions -

Have I taken enough?

Have I forgotten something?

Do I need this or can I do without it?

While I still feel this when packing (which is almost every now and then), I have gotten better at handling it. There are a few hacks that have made this process easier. Beginning with. -

Lists - Winter, Summer, Beach, Adventure - I just have them all

Over my years of travel, I have developed some lists that cater to the season or the type of travel I plan. I have one for beach vacays, one for winter holidays and a separate one for Scuba adventures. I generally fill the template with the number of days I plan to travel and thus calculate the number of outfits I might require.

I love my jeans and cargoes as they go with almost all travel. Teaming them up with different tops, shrugs or jackets almost always gives them a different look. Plus, they maintain the comfort. A shawl is a default addition - it keeps me warm during flights plus at sensitive tourist places like temples, it always is a saver for covering shoulders or head.

My choice of footwear usually includes a pair of stylish flats and a pair of walking or hiking shoes (depending on where I plan to go). One cap or hat and goggles complete the ensemble.

Can't forget the electronics - can we?

Cameras, memory cards, extra batteries, power banks, mobile chargers - they are on almost everyone's list. However, before I start to pack them (most of which goes into my handbag), I plug them all in to charge so that by the time I am done packing the main bag, they are ready!

The list also includes documents, accessories, personal care items and general medicines.

Pack into cubes and tick the list off!

I cannot tell you how much these packing cubes have helped me. Not only do they save space, but if you are living out of a suitcase for days, these are perfect storage solutions. They just go straight out of my bag into the hotel wardrobe and then back into the bag when it is time to leave. Beats that feeling of constant packing and unpacking.

Grab a drink and celebrate the upcoming trip!

Pour your favorite drink, download your favorite episodes for the trip and enjoy a little downtime. It always helps me relax. The calm helps me remember any possible forgotten items for the fun times!

Of course - don't forget your toothbrush! It is almost always a last minute addition. Take care and see you next month.

xoxo

P.S: I have included a few affiliate links that you can use. They do not cost you anything but do add a little incentive for me.