Spring Break Packing Tips

Hello everyone!

I am so incredibly excited to be visiting Miami, Florida this Spring Break! After my four exams this week, I will definitely be in need of some sunshine, beach time, and relaxation. I can’t wait to spend the next 7 days (in weather that will be over 40 degrees) with 8 of my best friends here at W&M! The 15 hour drive? Not so much. But that’s why caffeine was invented, right?

I’ve come to the realization that without a doubt, the most important aspect of traveling is packing. Even though I’ve traveled to 23 countries (I know it’s a lot, my mom is a travel agent), I’ve still always had a problem with this. I overpack WAY too much. I always think, “What if I want to wear this dress instead of that one? Well, better bring both!” and other thoughts of the sort. Because I know that I’m not the only one who does this, I thought I’d share my Top 5 Packing Tips.

1. Roll your clothes, don’t fold them. They’re less likely to wrinkle!
2. Remember to be practical about what you pack – at the end of the day, you probably won’t need 10 fancy outfits for a week-long trip.
3. You won’t need as many shoes as you think you will.
4. Put liquids in plastic bags in case they spill – you can also use these for any wet clothes or accessories that may get lost in your bags!
5. Invest in travel-sized toiletries (shampoo, toothpaste, deodorant, etc.). They save a ton of room!

If you follow these 5 rules, I promise packing will be a lot less of a hassle! I seriously need to start taking my own advice.

Other than that, I think another important aspect of traveling is planning beforehand. Know what the weather is going to be like before you get to your destination so you don’t pack the wrong clothes. Have your tickets/passports ready the night BEFORE you leave. I can attest to how important this one is because when I was 13 years old, my family couldn’t find our passports 10 minutes before we needed to leave for Europe. Needless to say, panic ensued. We ended up finding them in the garage (of all places) just in the nick of time, but that was one experience that taught me to always be packed and prepared as soon as possible!

Happy traveling! 🙂

– Marissa