Vacation Packing

I've been on family vacation, sorry for the lapse in posts.  Can I share with you a confession?  I'm an 'over-packer'!  We went to the lake for a week and I needed only half of the clothes I packed.  This seems disgraceful because as an organizer, I bring efficiency to the environment.  In a rare month, I will be on vacation again next week with some girlfriends. 

How about we talk about packing better?  I need to follow these tips as well as anyone!

1.  Is this piece of clothing versatile? Can I use it more than once?  I have some sun dresses that are appropriate for throwing over a swimsuit, and are still appropriate if I chose to wear it to dinner in the evening.  Look for those kinds of pieces in your own wardrobe.

2.  What is the weather going to be like?  No need to throw in a bulky sweatshirt on the off chance you need it in the summer.  It was over 100 degrees where we vacationed, that should have been my first clue.

3.  Shoes (this is a big one for me)!  Do I need shoes that match every single outfit I take?  It's so tempting.  Or can some pull double duty?  I am going to the beach next week, and I pledge to only take one pair of shoes - my flip flops - which I will wear on the plane so they don't take up room in my luggage.

4.  Can you lift the bag yourself?  This is a practical one for me.  I had my husband for the last trip, but I'm on my own this trip.  I have a nice piece of smaller luggage with wheels that would work perfectly if I control what I put in it.

5.  Do you need all those personal products?  I brought my make up to the lake and didn't use it once.  The beach I am headed to is more upscale and I will use it there for the evenings. 

Just take time to re-evaluate the way you pack for a trip and you can cut the amount you take drastically.  Hope your summer is going well!