Maybe it's because I'm a girl traveler but I am a serious over packer. I always want to pack that extra shirt, toothpaste, or device--just in case. Because my instinct is to pack more, I've had to learn a few tricks that lighten my backpack (or suitcase), make it easy to find what I need and overall make my life easier. Here's a list of my favorite packing hacks for ladies who travel.

 

LIGHTEN YOUR BAG WITH:

 

A large quick dry towel

large quick dry towel

I love these towels because they are thin and soft for showering, wash and dry really quickly and fold up really small. They don't take up any room in a suitcase. Some accommodations don't include towels so this is a great backup. When a towel is included then I use my quick dry towel at the beach or for my hair. It can have multiple uses since it's so easy to wash.

 

Detergent in a travel size shampoo bottle

travel bottles

Sometimes I run out of underwear or just needed to wash one or two items. After a sweaty hike or rainy walk, you just want to clean your stinky socks, am I right? A little detergent bottle is perfect for a sink rinse and avoiding high prices for a little laundry.

 

A packable day bag

osprey packable day pack

Having a day bag that folds up into a little ball is so convenient. It is small, packable, light but can still hold my laptop, tablet, camera and a bunch of other stuff. It's also nice to bring a packable grocery bag for souvenirs or as a carry on!

 

A travel money belt instead of a purse

travel money belt

I brought a purse on my 3 month trip and I really didn't need it. I used my day bag to walk around during the day and a money wallet for shopping at busy markets and going out at night. With a money wallet I don't worry about loosing my purse, getting pick pocketed or holding my purse while dancing. Let me tell you, salsa dancing with a purse is a buzz kill. Money wallet is the way to go (just put it under a loose/long top)!

 

FIND WHAT YOU NEED EASILY WITH:

 

Packing Cubes

packing cubes.jpg

I had never used organizational packs until my last trip. Boy do they make a difference! I didn't have to dig for stuff. Everything had a place. I could pull out one bag instead of 5 shirts that needed refolding. I also put electronics and cords in a bag so the wires are everywhere in my bag. I think they should have mini cubes for purses. My Mom would love that.

 

A toiletry bag that folds and hangs

hanging toiletry bag 2.jpg

I don't know about you but I have face cleanser, face lotion, body wash, shampoo, conditioner, hair curling spray, a razor, and make up remover. With all that it's so much easier to not take it all out. A foldable bag lets you compartmentalize and take what you need. Also, not all bathrooms have a hook or shelf so a toiletry bag that hangs or suctions to the wall is killer.

 

A pill box as a jewelry box

pill box as jewelry box

I don't bring that much jewelry when I travel, but I like to bring a couple things for my nights out. A 7-day pill box makes it easy to bring a couple earrings, rings and small necklaces or bracelets without it getting all tangled. And it makes you limit what you bring.

 

BONUS TIP!

 

Foldable hat.. need I say more?

foldable hat

My face is sensitive to the sun so I always wear a hat. A cap is easy to pack but not always a cute option. Beach hats are cute but hard to pack. I found this foldable beach hat (aka it rolls up) from Target and it's so convenient! #winning

 

Some of these items you can get at the corner store.

For the others, you can check them out or purchase them here.

The link above is an Amazon shopping page I created for you. If you buy anything through this link (notice the items are not more expensive), I get a small percentage. Thank you for supporting me as a blogger and GirlGoTravel!

P.S. Do you have any packing tips or products to a add? Comment below!

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