Let’s be honest: as much as we enjoy discovering new places, the actual packing and planning can be…less than exciting. Between the unending outfit planning, the Tetris-like task of fitting everything into your carry-on, and the continual anxiety of forgetting something important, pre-trip preparation can feel like a job in and of itself.
What is the good news? Your vacations are not doomed. With a few smart ideas (and some Amazon gems), you can turn your travel routine from stressful to efficient. Whether you’re heading out for a weekend holiday or an extended international excursion, these travel hacks will help you pack smarter, travel lighter, and arrive at your destination ready to enjoy every bit of your well-deserved break. No more last-minute packing panics or suitcase explosions in your hotel room, we swear.
1. Build a Capsule Wardrobe That Works Overtime
What’s the trick to packing light without losing style? A carefully prepared capsule wardrobe. Choose adaptable neutrals and one or two brights to offer some personality while mixing and matching with everything else. Are you more into modern minimalism? Choose striking accessories to liven up otherwise understated outfits. Consider a black slip dress suitable for both the beach and dinner, a clean white button-top, bright linen shorts that can be dressed up or down, and a woven bag that can be used at any time of day. Pro tip: Take shots of your entire outfit before leaving. They’ll come in useful when you’re groggy from jet lag and can’t recall how you intended to dress that outfit.
2. Embrace the Magic of Packing Cubes
If you haven’t already joined the packing cube revolution, consider this an invitation. Designate cubes by category—swim, sleepwear, activewear, bottoms, and tops—and watch as your suitcase turns from a chaotic black hole to an ordered oasis. Bonus: unpacking at your destination will take only seconds. Do not end up wearing everything? Separate your clean and filthy clothes on the way home.
3. Dress for TSA Success
Nothing kills vacation mood faster than standing in the security line, hastily unlacing boots and ripping off layers. Wear slip-on shoes, little jewelry, and layers that are easy to remove (a light trench or cashmere shawl is the ultimate MVP here). Make sure your tablet or laptop is conveniently accessible, and don’t forget to empty the water bottle before stepping in line.
4. The Pre-Packed Essentials Pouch Is Non-Negotiable
Rather than packing all your liquids into a sandwich bag, use a clear, reusable travel pouch that stays packed between journeys. Fill it with little versions of your favorite items (hint: a contact lens case works great for carrying small amounts of hair or skin care products). Don’t forget your pain medicines, stain stick, and eye mask.
If you thrive on being fully prepared, Amazon Basics has you covered. Include a travel manicure or basic grooming set (since hangnails don’t care if you’re on vacation), extra hair ties, and disposable cosmetic sponges—they take up less space than brushes and can be tossed to create room in your pack for those French pharmacy treasures. Oh, and we wouldn’t leave without a moisturizing water gel cream (great for in-flight and after-sun skincare).
5. Use Shower Caps for Shoes
Weird? Yes. Genius? Also, yes. Shower caps make great shoe covers. The elastic holds them snug around your shoes, shielding your clothing from whatever your soles picked up along the way.
6. Pack Dryer Sheets in Your Suitcase
Nobody wants to open a suitcase that smells like recycled aircraft air. Tuck a couple dryer sheets between each layer in your suitcase. They’ll keep your clothes smelling fresh, even after a long travel, and help prevent static cling in dry conditions.
7. Take Photos of Important Documents
Nobody wants to think about things going wrong on vacation, but we’ve learned from experience that it’s best to be cautious than sorry. Before you depart, photograph your passport (and visa if required), ID, credit cards (front and back), and travel insurance information (if you are the responsible one who always purchases it). Add everything to a folder on your phone, and then email yourself. Even if something goes missing (including your phone), you may still retrieve your documents in case of need.
8. Bring a Foldable Tote or Backpack
Going for a beach vacation? A folding tote takes up almost no space in your carry-on (a straw beach bag never does). Going to the city? A lightweight, foldable backpack is a must. It’s excellent for a day of adventure—and, let’s be honest, accommodating the shopping binge you promised you wouldn’t have (but will).
9. Always Pack a Portable Charger
Nothing causes stress quite like seeing your phone’s battery at 10% while attempting to navigate an unknown city. A tiny portable charger takes up little space in your bag but saves you numerous times.
