Change can be a struggle. So, when it comes to packing up and traveling to a new area, it is normal to feel a little overwhelmed with wondering what to bring and what to leave behind. If you are one that finds this part of packing stressful, here are a few steps to make it a little easier and more enjoyable. 

First, making a list of the necessities for your trip is a priority. When making a list, I have found it is easiest to categorize the items: for example, clothing, toiletries and any other items you may have. After you make the list and gather those items, you can decipher how much room will be left for other possessions of choice. 

 After collecting the items you need, it is important to assemble the items efficiently. Instead of folding clothes, try rolling them tightly and placing them in the suitcase as close together as possible. This is a huge hack for saving space. If you tend to overpack, this small revision will be life-changing. A similar space-saving tip is using packing cubes. They are great for organizing your items and packing them into as small of a space as possible. Make use of these tips so that on your next trip you are able to pack all of the extra outfits you would like!

After you are all packed and ready to go, it is time to pick out an outfit for the airport. If you are traveling by air, I have a few specific recommendations on what to wear. First, and most importantly, wear closed-toed shoes. Taking off your shoes and getting through security can be a pain in and of itself. Adding on that you would be barefoot walking on the grungy airport floor is just repulsive. So, to avoid this conflict either wear closed-toed shoes or at the least, socks with sandals. I also recommend wearing layers. The airport can be chilly at some times like while you are waiting for your flight. However, it can also feel hot and stuffy on the plane, in which case, you may want to strip off the layers. Therefore, by layering, you have eliminated the conflict of being hot or cold. Two birds with one stone! 

With these simple tips and tricks, packing and traveling will be an exciting process instead of an overwhelming and stressful one. This way you will be able to look forward to your vacation or work trip instead of overthinking the smaller details.