Share some tips on how you pack for a vacation

• silverfox
  
  Posts: 3178
  
  
  Oct 14, 2009 1:31 PM GMT

  Packing for a trip daunting to me. I am going to share a couple of my "tips" but hope to learn more from you guys because I HATE PACKING and I always tend to over pack.
  
  
  1. Have everything laundered so you can start from a blank "palette" with everything available to you.
  2. I decide shoes and sneakers first.
  3. From there I usually decide colors. If I am really lazy I just pack a whole bunch of black and white shit so I know everything will kind of match.
  
  OMG pathetic. Lousy gay guy here.
  
  Guys tell me some tips....I have trips coming up and already dreading the packing experience.
  
  (Thus the packing and unpacking threads I have started.....)
  
  Help!

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  Oct 14, 2009 3:23 PM GMT

  Okay so I'm amazed at these individuals that I call up on Wednesday, say do you want to hang out tonight and they reply back with
  
  Can't going to London, Paris, Barcellona whatever for the weekend and I have to pack....
  
  Seriously I have a few faithful staples that go in my case and the other 2/3s is pure impulse that go in and extra tee and underwear and a travel toiltery bag that's always ready to go..... 8-10 mins
  
  whereever I go it's not mars, and it's never happened that there's an unexpected black tie event
  
  although that was that mid December Chicago shopping trip in a light sweater, that was how I ended up with a whole new set of winter outerwear and was lent a jacket by the starbucks barista

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  Oct 14, 2009 3:34 PM GMT

  1.squish, squeeze, cram, decide you really do not need to take a facial steamer and aromatherapy candles afterall, squish, squeeze, and cram again and then use some space in your boyfriends bag.
  
  2.Have boyfriend sit on top of luggage while you close it.
  
  3. Pray that luggage is not chosen to be searched at the airport.
  
  4.Repeat again before coming home after having discarded a couple items to make room for new purchases.

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  Oct 14, 2009 3:47 PM GMT

  At the very last minute and usually under the influence of alcohol.....always makes arriving at your destination more interesting as you're wondering what you actually packed! lol!

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  Oct 14, 2009 3:51 PM GMT

  Doesn't really matter. You won't use half and wish you packed something different.

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• silverfox
  
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  Oct 14, 2009 3:54 PM GMT

  NOTE FROM OP:
  
  C'mon I am looking for you anal retentive realjocks...I know you are out there and I know you probably pack for yourself AND your bf.....
  
  Help us packing losers out!
  
  Share your secrets...give it up!

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  Oct 14, 2009 4:02 PM GMT

  I've had a ton of travel (123 countries to date - airline brat from birth) and learned a few tips early on:
  
  * Think about how many days you'll be gone and what events you'll have to attend - and what you'll wear to each event......then set those things out. Wrap good things carefully in tissue paper. Take a travel iron - or send things down for ironing at good hotels.
  
  * Add in underwear, socks, belts, shoes, ties - other accessories needed. Wrap shoes in clear bags. Remember belts should go with shoes. Don't forget black, dark blue and tan socks - - - enough pairs for the whole trip.
  
  * Don't forget workout, swimwear and casual things for your free time.
  
  * Finally - your personal gear - toiletries. Remember the 3 oz rules and check larger quantities of liquids (shampoos / mouthwashes etc) in your luggage. Don't forget Kiwi Express shine sponges in clear color for your shoes.
  
  * When you arrive - hang everything on good wood hangers to let them air and straighten out a bit (less ironing!) Keep shoe trees in shoes, and don't wear the same pair two days in a row.......what would people think? I mean, really!
  
  * Remember change for gratuities for the porters at the airports. I think $5.00 per bag is still fine, and if you rent cars and have to valet park - $5.00 for them as well. Maitre d' and wait staffs prefer cash - keep it on hand. Don't forget to tip anyone who served you - - and at the end of your stay is the conventional way this is done.
  
  * If you're staying in someone's home - send flowers (the day ahead of your arrival) so the hosts aren't hurrying around looking for a vase while you're standing there. Plus - you don't want to upset their plans for flowers they've already selected - - to make a place for your arrangement.
  
  * When you're in someone's home - look around for ideas for the gift you'll send after you get home. Check their color scheme - and see what they might like. That way you're not sending them something they'll just have to return. Remove the price but leave the tag in the gift box - just in case they have to return it anyway.
  
  * Be an agreeable guest - no matter what they serve; no matter what they want to do to entertain you; no matter how many people they want you to meet - you love and appreciate everythiing and are having a great time - make no complaints - help out if they have no help - be agreeable and you'll make it easier for them and they'll want you back. Have fun.

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  Oct 14, 2009 4:32 PM GMT

  put what you think you need on the bed
  put half of it back in the cupboard.
  
  now pack.
  
  have a nice trip.

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  Oct 14, 2009 4:48 PM GMT

  If it were really a "vacation?" I think I'd just toss a speedo, toothbrush and sunscreen in my backpack and head for the airport.
  
  When I used to travel a lot for work, I kept a carry-on packed in the closet all the time. In those pre-9/11 days I could roll out of bed at 0530, shower, drive to the airport, grab a latte & pastry at the security gate, and walk on to the plane at 0615, ready for departure.
  
  I usually go with a layering system with one change/backup for everything. Wear or carry one complete system (they will lose your luggage at some point.) When possible, go with microfiber synthetic stuff. It packs tight, and in a pinch (or remote locations) you can wash your spare in the bathroom sink (or a stream) and let it drip dry overnight. Oh yeah, take some laundry soap.
  
  If you have two of everything in contrasting but compatible colors, you can go for a couple of weeks without repeating too much. In a typical trip, this gets me through working in construction sites, hiking the backcountry, addressing a conference, and maybe a TV interview. But then again, nobody expects high fashion from me.

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  Oct 14, 2009 5:05 PM GMT

  Ok I'll actually contribute a helpful answer (gasp!)
  
  Versatile staples. White long-sleeved shirt, dark-denim jeans (both preferably fitted by a tailor), black or brown loafer w/matching belt. Underwear for as many days as you're traveling+2 (adjustable, I'll usually pack for twice as many days but that's too much if you're aiming for lightest useful packing). This bare basic can be dressed up or down twenty different ways and then some. Stick to neutral staples and (sparingly) sprinkle in pieces of interest. The sleeve length of the aforementioned can be modified depending on the weather conditions of where you are traveling.
  
  Not that I myself follow this. I'd rather fit in more shoes than anything in my luggage. I need options dammit.

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  Oct 14, 2009 5:14 PM GMT

  I tend to roll everything instead of folding so I have more room. buy luggage that has many compartments so everything is neatly organized. NON IRON dress shirts a must etc. If wrinkles are a issue bring things that can unwrinkle w/ hot steam while in the shower or have it pressed by hotel. depending on amt of days pack what you need. I usually will bring 1 pair of Dark denim as it's multi functional ( dress up or dwn) 1 pr of slacks or dress chino's. 1 white bttn dwn. 1 casual and 1 dress bttn dwn. 2 v-neck sweaters for layering or separate w/ above bttn dwns. Most hotels now have gyms, so shorts and t shirts depending on stay. Underwear & socks according to stay. Double sided jean belt and double sided dress belt. 2 prs of shoes blk and brwn. Travel in your most comft clothes and if that's denim no need to pack it wear it as it leaves space for nothing or something else. Otherwise wear the same thing coming and going. You're packed! safe travels and have fun!

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• silverfox
  
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  Oct 14, 2009 6:03 PM GMT

  Ciarsolo7 saidOk I'll actually contribute a helpful answer (gasp!)
  
  

  
  
  NOTE FROM THE OP:
  
  There you go Ciarsolo7 I knew you had it in ya!

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  Oct 14, 2009 7:01 PM GMT

  Ciarsolo7 saidOk I'll actually contribute a helpful answer (gasp!)
  
  Versatile staples. White long-sleeved shirt, dark-denim jeans (both preferably fitted by a tailor), black or brown loafer w/matching belt. Underwear for as many days as you're traveling+2 (adjustable, I'll usually pack for twice as many days but that's too much if you're aiming for lightest useful packing). This bare basic can be dressed up or down twenty different ways and then some. Stick to neutral staples and (sparingly) sprinkle in pieces of interest. The sleeve length of the aforementioned can be modified depending on the weather conditions of where you are traveling.
  
  Not that I myself follow this. I'd rather fit in more shoes than anything in my luggage. I need options dammit.

  
  
  To this I would add:
  
  -- as many pairs of sox as underwear, half if you are going to a warmer climate and will be wearing flipflops
  
  -- all meds or vitamins you are taking, plus one day extra
  
  -- toothbrush
  
  -- condoms... just in case

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• CAtoFL
  
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  Oct 14, 2009 7:03 PM GMT

  I'm one of those who also does a bit of traveling for work. This is a modest idea, but one that has worked for me: Make a list of what you'll need. Include even those things you don't think you could possibly forget (underwear and socks, for example). Then, sort the list by the layers in your suitcase. For me, folded dress slacks go in first so that they're least wrinkled. Sleep clothes (if any) and toiletries go in last so that they're most accessible the first night of vacation.
  
  As your list improves with each trip, packing will become increasingly a "no brainer". You might also develop sub-lists. I have one for long weekends and one for cruise vacations, for example. I keep the lists in Outlook as memos, so they're always available for reference and printing.
  
  Now when I pack, it's more a checklist than a reinvention of the wheel each time. It's easy and quick. And I know I won't forget anything.
  
  Anal retentive enough for ya?

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• Webster666
  
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  Oct 15, 2009 12:36 AM GMT

  I don't know if you're asking what to pack or how to pack.
  
  What to pack depends on where you're going, climate, casual, dressy, nudist resort, leather, beach wear ? And, how long will you be away ? Where you are going, are there laundry facilities ? If there are, you can pack less.
  
  How to pack ? Don't pile everything into the suitcase. Roll up each item before you put it in the suitcase. You can fit more in, and it will arrive in far better condition. Wrap belts around the inner walls of your suitcase. Stuff socks and underwear into shoes that you are packing.
  
  Most airlines won't let you take large bottles of liquids. But, many stores sell miniature bottles of every bath and beauty product that you would ever need. So, round up a supply of those to put in your small carry on bag.
  
  Everything you can't live without (in case your luggage gets lost or delayed) should go in your small carry on bag. That would include medications, contact lens solutions, etc. Also include a pen.
  
  Everything else should be in your second, larger carry on bag. Or, if you're taking a LOT of stuff, divide it between your checked luggage and your second carry on bag.

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• cbrett
  
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  Oct 15, 2009 12:50 AM GMT

  OK the 1st tip is to put anything you think you need on your bed now take at least half of it away you don't need it lol
  now pack you bag roll everything shirt wont be as creased when you get to destination
  
  now take out at least 3 t shirt one pair of shoe you wont wear them so don't carry them and if you can stand it take more out
  
  if you only going away for 9 + days you will have to wash you cloths so never pack to much just do some washing
  
  the most important thing is to pack lite why pay excess luggage to travel when you could use that money to go buy something holiday shopping is great

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  Oct 15, 2009 1:26 AM GMT

  I've traveled quite a bit and there is one rule I keep in mind first and foremost. Anything I don't bring, I can get when I get there.
  
  The tendency is to overpack. I made that mistake the first time I traveled overseas. It was miserable. I carried a humongous 80 liter backpack for a three week trip. That was a serious mistake and completely unnecessary.
  
  On one of my more recent trips, I went to southeast Asia for five weeks and took only a bookbag, and it was only half full. You might think that's extreme, and it probably is, but not once did I wish I'd packed more. It was great.

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  Oct 15, 2009 1:44 AM GMT

  im with lostboy, pile on the bed and then put half back.. well more than half for me cause i buy a buttload when i travel.. 22 tee's when i was in the states last year..
  rolling is the way to go for avoiding wrinkles.

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• silverfox
  
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  Oct 15, 2009 3:51 AM GMT

  PSCalif saidI'm one of those who also does a bit of traveling for work. This is a modest idea, but one that has worked for me: Make a list of what you'll need. Include even those things you don't think you could possibly forget (underwear and socks, for example). Then, sort the list by the layers in your suitcase. For me, folded dress slacks go in first so that they're least wrinkled. Sleep clothes (if any) and toiletries go in last so that they're most accessible the first night of vacation.
  
  As your list improves with each trip, packing will become increasingly a "no brainer". You might also develop sub-lists. I have one for long weekends and one for cruise vacations, for example. I keep the lists in Outlook as memos, so they're always available for reference and printing.
  
  Now when I pack, it's more a checklist than a reinvention of the wheel each time. It's easy and quick. And I know I won't forget anything.
  
  Anal retentive enough for ya?

  
  
  
  
  NOTE FROM THE OP:
  
  Some great ideas from you guys. Or at least, they seem ingenious to me.
  
  PSCalif this really is a good one.....
  I am doing up my "lists" now.
  
  One for tennis tournaments, business, and vacations (one warm weather, and one cold weather).
  
  Good stuff guys!

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  Oct 15, 2009 4:51 PM GMT

  Oh you are serious?? OK. I´ll give you the real answer.
  
  (1) You don´t need everythign you think you do
  (2) ditto.
  
  I go through everything I do from the moment I wake up: toiletries, towel (needed), what to dress in: a pair for every day and a few spares. trousers tops etc, you need fewer than you think. night: contact lense solution etc etc....
  
  then you remember if there is anything special you need: fishing rod or whatever....
  
  then pack. books and shoes first, then on top folded stuff in blocks (shirts together, pants together etc). This way you can unpack fast at the airport if you need to ditch weight (which you must know where it is in advance: I can drop a kg by doing this, 2kg this way etc).
  
  SUper easy. Other tip is prepacking: do this 2 days before you go, then repack and make sure that you actually put stuff back int he cupboard on the repack. PEOPLE TAKE TOO MUCH CRAP.

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• Webster666
  
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  Oct 16, 2009 1:33 AM GMT

  I always do the LIST, too, so I won't forget anything...

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• CuriousJockAZ
  
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  Oct 16, 2009 1:35 AM GMT

  I'm the last one to ask. I am the world's worst packer. I can never decide what I'm going to wear on the vacation while packing so I always bring "options" which leads to a 2nd suitcase sometimes.

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