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First, I would like to say, do as I say, and NOT as I do! LOL. But in all seriousness, the question many first time travelers may have is, “When should I start packing for my trip?”. Or maybe it’s not a question at all, and I just wanted to share my tips. So here they are:
Know Yourself
If you know, you are super busy all the time or ALWAYS late, the rule is the start earlier. The earlier the better is always my answer, but life isn’t that simple. But I know from experience, that it is less stressful when I start packing earlier.
The Ideal Time
Also take into consideration how long the trip will be, to determine when to start packing.
For me, the ideal time to start is a week out, or 7 days before I head out of town. Don’t get me wrong, I have outfits in the back of my mind already, but I’m talking about the physical packing process. For big trips, I pull out the luggage a week before the trip starts. This gives me time to think of anything
For a short weekend getaway , I usually start packing 4-5 days before because it is less outfits to think about. This allows me to make a checklist, make sure I have all of my toiletries and essentials, and ensure that you don’t forget anything important.
For longer vacations, I definitely use my one week out rule. If I don’t do anything else, I will literally open my suitcase just as a reminder. Then I start throwing stuff in the bag. This one week out rule gives me time to purchase any last minute items I need, wash clothes, and organize everything nicely in my suitcase.
Why You Should Start Packing Early
You have Time to Shop
If you realize you are missing items for your trip, you will have time to shop for them. This is very important, especially if you are packing for a special event.
You Avoid Over packing
For some people, it don’t matter how early the start…over packing is just in their nature. Note: I am some people. But also note: I am getting better. Anyhoo. When you pack early, you are more efficient and have more time to remove things you know you won’t need for the trip.
You Reduce Stress
I have done the super early (more than one week before trip) packing and the super late (morning of trip) packing and I will tell you that the stress that comes with last minute packing is just not worth it. And I always forget something. Last minute packing does not work for me AT ALL. If you start early, you will be more relaxed and organized. Trust me on this one.
Buffer for the Unexpected
I don’t know about you, but for me and my life, it seems like something is always popping up last minute. Packing early is helpful because it is a buffer for unexpected events that happen.
Prepared to SET and GO
Packing early gives you time to prepare and ensure other aspects of the trip are in order. If you are packed early, you can focus to make sure all of your reservations and documents in place. You will also have time to ensure last-minute things like prepared and ready to go for the trip
So basically, the best time to pack depends on the type of person you are and how long you plan to be out. But I suggest that the sweet spot is 5-7 days depending on where you are going. It’s all about trying to be as stress-free as possible and enjoying the trip.
So tell me, when do you start packing? Let me know!
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