LEAVING ON A JET PLANE - How to Pack Lighter, Smarter, and Faster

If there’s one thing that comes with the territory of ministry, it’s travel! As we get closer to travel season, I thought it would be fun to share some of our best practices when it comes to planning for travel. 
 
Chances are you and the family are planning some vacation or holiday trips in the next few months. Whether you’re going on a three-day business trip or preparing for a two-week vacation, here are some guidelines for maximizing suitcase space, minimizing your load and cutting down on wrinkles!

When it comes to international travel, investing in a solid carry-on bag is crucial for packing efficiently and effectively. A good carry-on bag should have multiple compartments, pockets, and organizers to keep your belongings organized and easy to find, allowing you to pack 

quickly and effortlessly. With a high-quality carry-on bag, you can fit all your essentials, such as your passport, laptop, and chargers, while also leaving extra space for souvenirs or unexpected items. Additionally, a carry-on bag with a durable and sturdy design can withstand the rigors of airport security checks and potential rough handling, giving you peace of mind while traveling. By investing in a solid carry-on bag, you'll be able to streamline your packing process, reduce stress, and arrive at your destination feeling more organized and prepared for your international adventure.

Tip two is crucial when traveling abroad. Creating a separate toiletry kit is an essential step in ensuring a hassle-free journey. By packing a dedicated toiletry kit, you'll avoid the risk of leakage or damage to your clothing and other belongings, and minimize the likelihood of being stopped at 

security checks. A separate kit also allows you to easily carry only the essentials, such as toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, and any medications, which can be especially important when traveling to destinations with limited amenities or language barriers. By keeping your toiletries organized and within reach, you'll be able to quickly and easily respond to any unexpected needs or emergencies, making your trip smoother and more enjoyable.

When it comes to packing, it's easy to get overwhelmed by the sheer volume of items to consider. However, by starting with a crucial yet often overlooked task - counting and packing socks and undergarments - you can set yourself up for a lighter, 

Smarter, and faster packing experience. By tackling these essential items first, you'll ensure that you're not overpacking or forgetting anything crucial, while also freeing up mental space to focus on more important decisions. Additionally, packing socks and undergarments first allows you to establish a solid foundation for your luggage, making it easier to build upon and adjust as needed. By prioritizing these basics, you'll be able to pack with greater intention and efficiency, ultimately leading to a more streamlined and stress-free travel experience.

When packing for your next trip, it's essential to keep your toiletries bag at the top of your carry-on or luggage in case the TSA needs to pull it for inspection. This simple habit can save you a significant amount of time and hassle at the airport security checkpoint. By keeping 

your toiletries bag easily accessible, you'll be able to quickly and efficiently remove it from your luggage or carry-on if the TSA requests to inspect it. This can help prevent delays and allow you to get to your gate on time, making your travel experience much smoother and less stressful.

When packing your carry-on and luggage, it's essential to think "Tetris" - a strategy that involves maximizing space and efficiency by fitting irregularly shaped pieces together like a puzzle. By applying this approach, you can pack your bags lighter, faster, and smarter, ensuring a more

streamlined travel experience. This means carefully considering the shape and size of each item, grouping similar items together, and using every available nook and cranny to minimize wrinkles and maximize space. By thinking "Tetris" while packing, you'll be able to fit more into your bags without sacrificing style or comfort, making your travels less stressful and more enjoyable.

Checked baggage fees, small overhead compartments, and long waits at baggage claim are just a few reasons it pays to pack light. 
 
If your flight is canceled or delayed (something I’m all too familiar with), having your bag in hand can be the difference between getting on with your trip or spending a miserable night at the airport. Outside of an extend trip (14 days or more OR to an extremely cold climate) abroad, we nearly always travel without checking baggage.
 
My hope is that these tips give you some insight into your own journey when it comes to travel! 
 
Question: Are you traveling anywhere this upcoming season? I’d love to hear where you’re going and what you do to keep travel manageable. Leave a comment or write me back, I’d love to hear from you!

Author

Brett R. Bagwell
THREE18 | Founder/CEO