15 Tips That Will Change the Way You Pack

Tip 1: Fix a Smelly Suitcase

You left some funky sneakers in your suitcase, and now it smells bad. Get rid of a bad suitcase smell with some dryer sheets: throw some in your suitcase and leave it overnight, and the smell will be gone by tomorrow. Dryer sheets are also great for packing with your luggage to keep your clothes fresh while you’re on the go.

Tip 2: Make Packing for Kids Easier

If you’re traveling with young kids, make it easier to get ready each morning while you’re away. When packing their clothes, pack full outfits, and place each one in a big Ziploc bag (with any hair or other accessories)—plus an extra or two for spills and emergencies. Each morning, your child can pick out one Ziploc full of clothes to wear that day. That way, you won’t have to spend as much time making sure they look presentable!

Tip 3: Roadtrip Tip

If you’re traveling by car and will be spending a single night at a hotel, consider packing a separate bag for this night only. Have everyone in your family add their items to that bag, and it will be the only one you’ll have to pull out of the car on your lay-over.

Tip 4: Plan for Lost Luggage

If you are checking your bags, put at least one outfit in the suitcase of your spouse (or other travel buddy). If your suitcase gets lost, you’ll have at least a few clothes to tide you over until it’s found.

Tip 5: Keep Necklaces from Getting Tangled

Make sure your delicate necklaces and bracelets don’t get tangled while you’re traveling—keep them safe with some plastic straws. Cut a straw in half, thread your necklace through, and fasten the clasp. The straw will keep the chain straight and untangled.

Tip 6: Pill Container as Earring Holder

Repurpose a plastic daily vitamin/pill container into a earring container that’s perfect for trips. Earrings and sometimes even rings fit perfectly inside, and it will make sure you’re accessorized for each day you’re away!

Tip 7: Another Easy Fix for Packing Jewelry

Packing for a trip? Keep your sensitive jewelry safe and tangle-free by taping it to some bubble wrap. Then roll the wrap up and pack safely in your suitcase.

Tip 8: Pack Alike

These days, when we pack, it’s all about shoving everything we need into a carry-on to save on checked bag fees. One rule we live by to make it work? Pack...

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