May 2008, Issue 7

Happy Trails to You

Thinking of going on a vacation this summer, but apprehensive about all the prep work to make it happen? Don't let the potential stresses of planning and packing dissuade you. With a few helpful hints, you'll be ready to go in no time. Grab your passport, zip up your suitcase, and leave your worries at the door. Here's to a relaxing time away - wherever you decide to go!

This month, travel organized.

1. Bring a laundry bag. Make returning home a breeze by sorting your laundry  while you're away. Pack a few extra plastic bags - or some of the travel laundry bags suggested below - and sort your laundry during your trip. This way, when you're back and unpacking, all you have to do is throw each bag of clothing into the washing machine, and one rinsing cycle later, your clothes will be as good as new.
2. Leave extra room. Just because you have extra room in your bags does not mean you have to fill it. Do yourself - and your back - a favor and leave some space for things that you may pick up along the way. Then, when it comes time to re-pack your suitcase, everything will fit - still leaving the zipper intact.
3. Compartmentalize. When you're traveling, you don't want to spend your mornings searching for things to wear. To cut down on time - and your frustration levels - divide your belongings into zones when you're packing. Group all of your socks together and throw them into a mesh bag. Keep your bathing suits and water shoes together in a corner. Also, make sure that you have easy access to your pajamas since you'll definitely need them by the end of your the first day away.
4. Plan outfits beforehand. Take out the guesswork, and decide what you'll be wearing everyday before you leave on your travels. Then, once you arrive at your destination, lay out an outfit for the next day every night before you go to bed. This will let you start the day quickly, without the hassle of rummaging through your clothes, trying to decide what to wear.
5. Take a folder along. Whether you're keeping a budget, or collecting tickets and trinkets on your journey abroad, it's a great idea to bring a folder to contain small papers or receipts. Don't worry about organizing them while you're away - you'll have plenty of time to do that once you return home. Just make sure to keep them together so that when you're ready to organize them, they'll be easy to find and all in one place.

Choose from orange, navy, or goldenrod to house your darks and lights while you're away exploring the Grand Canyon, or lounging by the pool in Cabo. Lightweight and durable, these bags are easy-to-clean and collapse into compact packets that can be clipped onto your carry-on or backpack when embarking on your journey.