5 summer packing tips you should know before a trip

As travelers hit the road or board flights this summer, organizer Miranda Smith says a little planning goes a long way. Here are her top tips:

1. Make A Plan

1. Call ahead to your destination to ask what’s provided—like hair dryers, towels or laundry facilities.
2. Research the climate to avoid overpacking "just in case" items.

2. Pack Smarter, Not Harder

1. Consider what you actually need versus what you think you might use.
2. Limit clothes by planning to do laundry mid-trip if possible.
3. Use space-saving methods like:
4. Rolling clothes
5. Packing cubes (color-coded for kids)
6. Vacuum-sealed bags

3. Keep Electronics Organized

1. Use a labeled pouch or Ziploc with Velcro straps to manage chargers, cords and power banks.
2. "Everything needs a home," Smith says, so you’re not scrambling to find cables mid-trip.

4. Minimize Medication Clutter

1. Swap out full-size pill bottles for compact travel organizers with labels.
2. This keeps things tidy and makes it easier to travel light.

5. Less Is More

1. Extra space leaves room for souvenirs and helps avoid checked bag fees.
2. Smaller luggage is easier to manage, especially in walkable destinations like Europe.

For more travel prep advice, visit organizingwithmo.com.