Organize for Carefree Travel

When you organize your travel planning and packing, you can save time and money and get the most pleasure out of your vacation.

Preliminary planning

• If you are renting a vacation residence, check ahead to see if you need to bring linens, pillows, laundry soap or other amenities.
• Leave a copy of your itinerary and contact information with your house- or pet-sitter and anyone else who may need to reach you.
• A week before you go, call ahead and confirm all your reservations and arrangements.

Pack like a pro

• You can best fit casual clothes in your bag and avoid creases by rolling them lightly rather than folding them.
• Bring a few extra doses of your medicines and backup glasses or contact lenses plus a copy of your prescription in case they are lost or damaged.
• Include a few collapsible tote bags for outings and shopping.

Air travel sanity savers

• Research ahead your airline’s policy for the number and weight limit of bags and baggage fees.
• Look at the TSA’s website for the latest list of restricted items on airplanes (tsa.gov).
• Take all your vital supplies for overnight plus a change of clothes in your carry-on just in case your checked luggage gets lost.
• Make a list of what you packed in your checked luggage in case it is lost and you need to make a claim. Keep the list and all valuables in your carry-on bag.
• Designate one space for all your vital travel documents. Include a list of all your prescription medicines and your doctors’ and pharmacy’s phone numbers. Apps like Tripit can compile it for you.

Have a wonderful and relaxing trip!

Rachel M. Gambone is the owner of ReOrganize with Rachel, LLC. In addition to general home organizing, she specializes in helping you organize your office, papers and digital information. Her signature approach is positive organizing where she builds on your strengths, helps you find your treasures, and teaches you life-long organizing skills. See more organizing tips and a link to her free podcast at reorganizewithrachel.com.