Packing has never been something I look forward to, per se. But I have to admit that the chance to project forward a few days and style up what I’ll be wearing has become more enjoyable for me as I have traveled more in general.

However, if you’re not keen on packing here are some of my tips for keeping it easy and stress-free! Beach, mountains, plains, metropolitan area, or small town– your trip could be long or short. If you stick these 5 easy tips I think it takes some of the pain out of packing.

1. Pack in advance. 
2. Make real outfits. 
3. Choose a neutral color palate. 
4. Don’t forget your non-clothing items. 
5. Always go light on the shoes.

Let’s break some of these tips and tricks down a little further.

Pack in Advance

Sometimes I pack up to a week in advance if I already know what I am going to wear. I understand that you packing this far ahead can lead to clothing wrinkle, so you do have to think about that. But I have found that if I pack in advance then I tend not to forget things.

It is on those trips where I have tried to throw everything into my carry-on late the night before that I wind up forgetting my pajamas, swimsuit, underwear, or my toothbrush! Life is busy, at the very least, pack the day before!

Make Real Outfits

This one is relatively new to me, but it has probably been the biggest packing game-changer for me personally. Have you ever shown up to a business trip and somehow ended up packing casual wear rather than the needed business attire? I have.

Have you ever gone on vacation and realized that all those pretty dresses you brought are simply WAY. TOO. DRESSY for the beach house you rented or the resort you’re staying at? I have. Have you gotten to your parent’s house with a HUGE BAG and somehow the random collection of crap that you shoved into that enormous duffle just doesn’t seem to go together?!? I have.

Solution: make real outfits when you pack. This top with this bottom, etc. This dress with these flats. Mix and match to save space all you want, but really try to image the actual outfit you’ll be wearing.

Choose a Neutral Color Palate

Now my tip here is the choose a neutral color palate because neutrals are so easy to mix and match. I really am going to pack black and white and denim for my trip to California, but if you don’t love neutrals you can CHOOSE ANY COLOR PALATE!!!

Do you love blues and greens? Then pack in primarily those colors. Do you favor red or have an abundance of green in your wardrobe? Pack those colors. Choosing a color palate simply helps you to narrow down your choices beforehand. Check and check!

Don’t Forget Non-clothing Items

I no so very guilty of this, but I have a very close friend who happens to be the wife of a dentist who perpetually forgets her toothbrush! The irony is real. However, I have gotten somewhere and realized that if I had done a little prior planning I would have brought my own sunscreen, or I would have made sure to have facial cleansing wipes.

It is these items you would do well to think about in advance. Plus, don’t forget sunglasses, a good book, jewelry (if you wear any), electronic devices and their chargers, and any bags you might need to have when you arrive at your destination. For example, I am heading to the beach, I am going to bring a beach bag with me because I don’t need to buy one once I get there.

Always Go Light on the Shoes

I love shoes. I have many pairs, but when it comes to packing- EVEN IF YOU ARE ROAD TRIPPING- leave the majority of your shoe closet where it is. The main reason being that shoes are bulky, they take up a lot of space, and really how many shoes do you REALLY wear during a weeks’ time?

Ditch the stilettos, sub in your favorite espadrilles, and don’t forget to bring your running shoes!

There you have it. Five friendly packing tips that have made my experiences packing a lot easier and a lot more enjoyable. Wishing you safe travels and happy trails wherever your suitcase, carry-on, duffle, or weekender takes you!

XX, Megan

Links: Sweaters Summerstich Pullover, Black and White Boatneck, Summer Beach Sweater; Leopard Crossbody; Shoes Lace-up Sandals, Espadrilles, Birkenstocks (not pictured); Blouses 1, 2, 3, 4; Tees 1, 2, 3; Shorts 1, 2, 3, 4; Pants 1, 2; Swimsuits 1, 2; Hat 1, 2 (not pictured); Dress 1 (not pictured);