How to Pack for a Trip Like a Professional Organizer
Whether you're packing for a weekend getaway or a two-week adventure, the process doesn’t have to feel chaotic or last-minute. As a professional organizer, I believe the key to stress-free travel is preparation, intentionality, and a system that works. In this post, I’m sharing exactly how I pack—what I bring, what I leave out, and the must-have products that help me stay organized on the go. Because when your suitcase is in order, your trip starts off on the right foot.
Plan ahead
Pack what you can 2 days before you leave. This of categories like day outfits, night outfits, pajamas, loungewear, workout, and swim. Keep a list for bathroom items (makeup, toothbrush) and carry on items (chargers, snacks, screen of choice) which will be packed the morning you leave.
2. Pack light
First question is ‘Do you have laundry service access?’ How dirty will you be getting (active hiking vs lounging). If you do have laundry access, I recommend one outfit for every 2 days of travel. If no access to washing your clothes, 1:1 will work. Try to pick versatile, simple pieces that can mix and match, re-wearing a bottom with a different top. If you succeed at this, you can pack even lighter! Outerwear and shoes take up a LOT of space. Can you wear these on the plane or car ride? Or at least keep to a minimum?
3. Must-have products for organized travel
-Packing cubes: love mine from The Container Store, by Eagle Creek (the medium size, has a dirty and a clean compartment) $22.99
-Toiletry bag: mine is from The Container Store, $27.99
-Zipper bags: favorites on Amazon, multipack of 21 bags for $14.99
-A great carry-on item: like the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack version from REI $190 for a large version, and a smaller backpack version is the Rains Backpack Mini from The Container Store $95
-Suitcase: This one is from The Container Store, called the CALPAK Hue Front Pocket Carry-on for $265, with the cool CALPAK Luggage Tag and Portable Charger for $32
Find the video segment for this blog post on Real Milwaukee here
