After experiencing over 60 hours of flight delays in the past three years, I have discovered the smart and creative method of packing that has helped us avoid stress and stay organized. By creating and utilizing a universal packing checklist, we are able to prevent the possibility of forgetting essential tasks and items. In addition, we have optimized our packing space by making our wardrobes more versatile and cutting down on unnecessary items.
Throughout our nonstop travels around the globe since 2020, with visits to 21 countries, we have mainly relied on checked luggage. Even when our suitcases arrive days late at our destination, we no longer worry because our packing skills have greatly improved, and we have learned to handle travel-day situations with ease. Here is my reliable packing method:
I have created a comprehensive 25-item checklist using the Notes app on my iPhone. This checklist includes all the items I typically need but often forget, such as collar stays for dress shirts, favorite hats, and specific socks for certain shoes. By referring to this checklist before every trip, I have successfully avoided any issues. Furthermore, I have incorporated this checklist as a predeparture guide for tasks like taking out the trash, feeding my son’s pet geckos, checking the mail, and ensuring all our devices are charged.
To maximize wardrobe versatility and minimize packing space, we have focused on selecting clothing items that can be used for various occasions and climates. For instance, my wife opts for dresses that can serve as pool cover-ups, casual brunch attires, or trendy dinner outfits. As for me, I have curated a modular wardrobe that offers five days’ worth of clothing, all of which can be neatly packed into a single large packing cube. By embracing a “uniform” style, I am able to keep my packing to a minimum.
My wardrobe essentials begin with a pair of high-quality athletic shoes without any logos. These versatile shoes can be worn in the gym or paired with a casual sports coat for a more upscale look. To save space in my suitcase, I wear these shoes during the flight. For bottoms, I pack two pairs of fitted shorts and a single pair of white jeans. As for tops, I opt for several identical, solid-color, long-sleeve button-down shirts that offer comfort for safari adventures while maintaining a polished appearance for upscale lounges.
Considering the frequent jet lag we experience due to our travels to different time zones, we have found ways to mitigate its effects. We pack essential items such as sleep masks, earplugs, sunglasses, and melatonin gummies to help regulate our sleep patterns. Additionally, we have discovered a mobile app called Time Shifter, which utilizes our trip and flight information to create an hour-by-hour schedule customized to eliminate jet lag.
In the face of common travel challenges, we have developed creative solutions. For example, we hide spare debit cards in the lining of our suitcases as a safeguard against potential theft. By utilizing bank apps, we can disable these cards until they are needed. Moreover, we keep digital copies of our passports and driver’s licenses stored in a specially designated photo album on our phones.
Furthermore, we adopt a prepared mindset by packing our carry-on luggage as if our checked bags will be lost. This approach ensures that even if we end up sleeping in the airport, we have essential items readily available. Our carry-on bags include toothbrushes, a few days’ worth of supplements and medications, chargers, cables, a portable power bank, neck pillows, a travel blanket, and the aforementioned jet lag supplies. If space permits, I also pack an extra shirt and socks in my carry-on.
Travel credit cards have proven to be invaluable for us, as they offer a range of benefits such as access to airport lounges, free Wi-Fi, meals, cocktails, and showers. Additionally, many of these cards provide coverage for lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency evacuation. Carrying at least one travel credit card ensures that we can take advantage of these perks and be prepared for any unforeseen circumstances.
When it comes to tracking our belongings, we have devised a strategic approach. Instead of placing an Apple AirTag in every bag, we choose to place a single AirTag in the smallest bag, such as my wife’s more formal purse for special dinners. This way, we can track her suitcase during travel days and her purse when we are out exploring the town. Implementing this strategy for everyone allows us to minimize the need for additional AirTags and simplifies the tracking process.
By implementing these smart packing techniques and being prepared for various travel scenarios, we have significantly reduced stress and improved our overall travel experience.
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