My husband and I have had many a self-catering/self-drive holiday and there is something fantastic about being able to pack everything bar the kitchen sink! I’m lucky to have a husband that silently packs the car, knowing full well there are many things that will come back unused, unworn etc. – but he feels that if having the items lower my stress levels and lets us leave home feeling everything is right with the world, then so be it for a stress free holiday. But I know I am lucky – an estate car, a non-grumbling other half and only ourselves to worry about!
But what if you have children and all of their needs to be concerned with and what if you are flying with all of the complicated baggage allowances, in the cabin, checked in, liquids etc…
So, just how do you pack, stay sane and meet the rigid baggage restrictions?
1) Weigh your luggage without anything in it. A carry-on bag with wheels is great for handling, but not much use if it weighs 4 kilos empty and your allowance is only 6 kilos. Beg and borrow more suitable luggage from friends and family if budget restricts you buying new.
2) If possible check the long term weather forecast for your destination. British people are used to changing weather and tend to pack for all occasions. Wellies, umbrellas, rain coats, jeans etc. – may not be needed!
3) If budget allows consider packing in advance, it may cost a little bit extra, things like toiletries etc. – but it is great to seal your cases and know you don’t have to wait to put anything in you are using on your day of departure – toothbrush anyone!
4) This may take some time – but try everything on, women in particular tend to fluctuate in sizes, nothing more annoying that taking something on holiday only to realise it doesn’t fit. Equally if you are unsure about the item – leave it at home. Holidays should be carefree – take your favourite items only.
5) Lay out all of your main clothes – shorts, trousers, skirts, dresses, tops, shoes etc. Try to avoid taking anything that only goes with one item. Take things that will mix and match.
6) These days much of our luggage can be taken up with holiday accessories – toiletries, make up, jewellery, hand bags and electronics and their subsequent chargers! Try to purchase smaller size toiletries, finish them up whilst on holiday and leave them there. Cast your mind back to your last holiday and think about whether you wore make-up, used 3 handbags etc. and cull as necessary. Try to minimise electronics and take chargers that work for a number of gadgets in the family if possible – and don’t forget travel adaptors.
7) Check whether your destination has any of the things you might need – like hair dryers, and whether washing clothes may be an option.
8) Use a packing list – www.theholidaylet.com/checklist to reassure yourself you’ve not forgotten anything.
9) The most important items are tickets, passports, money and medications – you can more or less fudge your way through anything else.
Happy holidays…
Tweet