This is a guest post by George Gensler, who recently shared her trip to Taiwan on our social media channels.
We all have our own ways of packing, so I thought I'd share mine. It's tried and true (for me) and if I don't pack this way, I either forget something (I once forgot to pack any trousers, so only had the ones I was wearing) or pack way too much (I consider it a packing failure if I have more than one or two extras of anything).
I call it the top-to-toe method. I start at my head and work my way down my body packing everything I need for each part. I usually go through it three times:
- Toiletries
- Underclothes
- Clothes
In fall and winter (either at home or where I'm going), I might do a fourth pass to cover outerwear. The order isn't exactly critical, but I find it less confusing to go through in the order I use the items.
Toiletries
Head
- Shampoo
- Conditioner
- Styling products
- Hair brush
- Comb
- Facial cleansing cloths (I use these to avoid having to decant cleansing fluids and to cut back on the liquid items I'm bringing, especially if I'm taking only carry-on bags)
- Moisturizer
I don't use them, but this is also where you would consider cosmetics, etc.
Body
- Deodorant
- Fragrance
- Sunblock
- Razor
Underclothes
Hair
- Hair clips
- Ponytail bands
Body
- Bras
- Underpants
- Socks
- Tights
Clothes
Head
- Jewelry
Torso
- Shirts
- Blouses
- Cardigans
- Sweaters
- Dresses
Legs and feet
- Trousers
- Shorts
- Skirts
- Shoes
- Boots
- Sandals
- Slippers (I always pack slippers, because I take my shoes off at the door)
Outerwear
This depends on the season when I'm travelling but this is a general guide.
Head
- Hat
- Scarf
- Ear muffs
Torso
- Coat
- Sweaters
- Jackets
- Gloves
- Mittens
Extra packing
Once I've got the main items packed, I go back through again for night time, so pyjamas etc. I also might add outfits for special events, like weddings, parties, or interviews. I appear on stage handing out awards on occasion, so for some trips I need to pack special outfits.
Carry-on bag
I do a similar type of packing for my carry-on bag, going through my tech needs, work needs, etc.
On my most recent trip, I wasn't going far and thought I could manage without the method . I ended up forgetting the power cord for my laptop and had to order a new one. Be like organized George, not slap-dash George!
How do you manage your packing, especially if you're going somewhere you can't easily replace forgotten items? Do you think you'll try this method? Head on over to our Facebook page and let us know!