Step 1 - Do your laundry before you pack, and definitely don't leave it until you come home. You are sure to only encounter disaster if you wait to do everything together post trip.
Step 2 - I found this online and it really helped (although I'm a compulsive list maker so perhaps that's why). If you go to The Universal Packing List it will help you sort through what you need and don't need based on the kind of trip you're taking. Make a list!
Step 3 - Make sure to pick a bag (suitcase or duffel) that isn't too big. According to the Ultimate Guide to Packing Light, if you pick the bigger bag then you're going to fill all the space. If you're really feeling distraught about which bag to bring you can go here - this website helps explain what makes for good luggage versus a disaster in the airport.
Step 4 - WHY ARE YOU PACKING A FULL TUBE OF TOOTHPASTE?! Carrying full size toiletries is a bad idea. Whether they're in your carry on or in your luggage stowed away there's no reason to bring a family size bottle of shampoo. My bet is you won't shower as much as you would at home anyways, so you're not going to go through 26 oz of conditioner and you definitely don't brush your teeth more than twice a day while on vacation so go out to the store and buy yourself some handy airline approved small sized toiletries. This makes life a hell of a lot easier for everyone.
Step 5 - If you don't like the idea of rolling at least your casual clothes to provide more space, at least fold them. Not only will folding your clothes prevent wrinkles but it will also give you more space to pack those over-sized speakers you thought your friends would want in the hotel room while you pregame. Whatever you do, do not make the mistake of just shoving things in your bag. If you're going on a fancier trip - say to a wedding etc you might want to check out Martha Stewart's
helpful packing tips on her website. She has crazy ideas like using tissue paper to keep your dry clean items free of wrinkles and neatly folded in your bag.
Step 6 - This is my own thing but if you're planning to bring a camera (digital or film), an ipod, cellphone or anything of the sort, I suggest you bring those things with you in a carry on bag. There are always warnings about the x-ray scanners ruining certain kinds of film and unless you have a lock on your luggage I always feel more comfortable with my valuable electronics on my person. At least this way if something gets ruined, its my own fault.
This is my backpack - I don't even entertain the idea of bringing a purse as a carry on because this is always better. Go get yourself one, you'll thank me later.This is a three minute video on how to pack a backpack as a carry on the best way. You won't need the equipment he's taking but the idea is the same.
Step 7 - I've separated this because it's equally as important as your expensive electronics if not more... make sure you have all the correct documentation for your trip. Whether you need your passport and license or just two forms of ID, be responsible and pack this stuff in your carry on. Don't make the mistake of packing too much cash or not having your flight confirmation number - all of this can be solved by keeping a folder in your pack with your flight information, your passport and other forms of ID. If you're going out of the country it's also a safe bet to make a copy of your credit card you'll be bringing as well as your social security card (don't bring the real one), just in case there's a problem.
Step 8 - I didn't put this at the top because ultimately I like to have my own stuff, but I found that a lot of people said the same thing. Don't buy something if you can borrow it. Oh you need a dress? Great, raid your roommates closet if she'll let you. Don't have the right kind of luggage? Ask a family member if they might lend you theirs. As a college student we might not all be in the same economic demographic but it's still important to be financially responsible - if you don't need to spend money on something, then don't. Look at it this way, if you don't spend it now that's more money you have to use while you're away.
Step 9 - Double check everything before you leave. I always feel like I'm forgetting something so it's a safe bet that you did too considering I'm the list maker. Check check and recheck before you leave to ensure you don't leave your underwear sitting in the clean laundry pile.
Step 10 - It's a little intense but they have the right idea, before you leave these are some things you should think about checking.
I know I wish I'd had this all written down before I left for Florida so I hope this was helpful. Good luck with your next trip!
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