2013 Travel Series: How To Pack Stage 3: Last Minute

The final and often most important stage of packing is not actually the packing itself but the 'last minute' stuff. It's likely that you will be using the vital things you need for your trip up until the last hour or so before you leave (i.e. toothbrush, hairbrush, phone), and you might therefore forget to bring the extras that aren't packed securely in your suitcase. To avoid this why not try these tips to avoid stress:

1) Make a 'do not forget' list on a Post-It, index card or journal to tick off before you leave

2) Keep a pile to one side of the clothes that you want to wear on the day that you leave to travel. Plan your 'travel outfit' at the same time as you plan your holiday outfits and pack your clothes

3) Make sure you keep everything that you might need accessible when travelling (medication, travel itineries, passport, etc.) readily available, for example in an outer pocket of your suitcase or in your hand luggage. I keep my important documents in a clear Rapesco folder

Carpe Diem xx

2013 Travel Series: How To Pack Stage 1: Prep

I think I'd describe myself as an 'enthusiastic packer'. I love travelling and going to new places, seeing new things, and I'm usually the first to start packing because it's a process I kind of enjoy as it makes me feel that I'm extending my holiday. So welcome to my 2013 Travel Series, a series of posts full of tips and tricks that I have picked up through some trial and a lot of error!

Stage 1: Prep

The key to being an organised, relaxed packer is in the preparation. Step 1 is to look up the weather forecast for where you are going. Whether you are staying at home or travelling half way across the world it's always a good idea to plan a series of flexible outfits around unpredictable weather.

Write a list of everything you will need to take with you under headings such as: 'Tops', 'Trousers', 'Underwear', 'Toiletries' and 'Electronics'. If you need to then this is the time to do last minute shopping for extra clothes or toiletries that you might need.

Finally, get out handbags, rucksacks, suitcases, etc. that you will want to pack everything in and lay out everything on a bed or large surface.

Carpe Diem xx