Packing for a vacation

(129 Reviews)
100% Recommended

Laurie Johnsrud

Rochester, MN

Memorable Family Vacations Specialist

When I go on vacation, I like to make sure that all details are taken care of (flights, hotels, transfers, sightseeing) yet also want to have some free time to explore whatever I might be interested in doing that day. I know most of my clients als...

When I go on vacation, I like to make sure that all details are taken care of (flights, hotels, transfers, sightseeing) yet also want to have some free time to explore whatever I might be interested in doing that day. I know most of my clients also want all details taken care of in advance so they can put their brain in “vacation mode”. My specialties are family travel, couples getaways, and all-inclusive resorts and escorted tours. Whether you are looking at a vacation for 1 person or 100, I can help plan a memorable getaway that you’ll remember with fondness for many years to come.

I have seen many fascinating areas of the world......Fiji, the Caribbean, Mexico, China,  and Europe. One of my more recent trips was to Costa Rica. My husband and I stayed at two different resorts, and boy were they different from each other. I've also been able to sail with several cruise lines in the Caribbean and Europe, including a river cruise.

I’d love to share my experiences and knowledge with you about all these wonderful destinations. I've been in the travel industry since 1984 and am a Travel Leaders Certified Travel Specialist. I enjoy exploring new areas and will take care of all your travel details to make sure you have a well planned, worry free vacation.

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Laurie Johnsrud

Can Be Reached At

1-507-446-3684

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So you've picked your vacation spot - now to plan how to pack.  There are many different aspects to think about when bringing your suitcase out from storage.  What will the weather be like?  What activities will I be doing?  How long am I staying?  These all play a part in the packing scenario.  Here are some ideas for your consideration:

• Don't over pack.  Everyone warns you about this, but not everyone listens. It's hard to leave half your wardrobe at home, but now's the time to be realistic on exactly how many pairs of jeans you really need to pack (I know, easier said than done).


• Figure out your packing method.  Some people fold, others roll, some stack and still others like the Marie Kondo method when packing their bags.  Whichever method works best for you, consider using packing cubes.  They come in multiple sizes and can not only help keep your clothes organized, but they help create space in your bag.


• Keep a packing list on your phone.  This way you only have to remember an item once since your list has already been created.  You just need to check things off and you won't forget to pack your swimsuit next time.


• Invest in some wrinkle free clothes.  You'll always look nice and don't need to spend part of your valuable vacation time ironing.


• Bring some laundry soap sheets.  This helps in the amount of clothing you   really need to bring with you since no one will notice if you wear the same shirt two times within 7 days.


• Remember to always carry anything in your carry-on bag that you can't =live without.  Example: prescriptions, passport.  Also a change of clothes and a swimsuit are good to have in your carry-on.


• If you are traveling with a family member, consider putting a change of clothes in each other's luggage.  This way if your bag is delayed you can have another outfit to wear until your luggage is retrieved.


• If it's irreplaceable, leave it home.  You really don't need to bringGrandma's wedding ring with you on your trip.  Valuable jewelry should be left at home.  Other jewelry should be in your carry-on.


• It's a good idea to keep a pre-packed bag of over-the-counter medications to make it easier for you to grab and go (heartburn medicine, aspirin, diarrhea medicine, bandages, etc.).  This is another way to not forget something you would miss should you need your preferred brand.

Try to get creative with your bags.  The trip is the highlight - not the wardrobe.