'Home Edit' Star Joanna Teplin Shares Her Tips on How to Stay Organized at Every Stage of Traveling

Pre-Trip Prep: The Foundation of Organized Travel

The key to a smooth trip lies in thorough preparation. According to Joanna Teplin, this phase is critical for setting the stage for an organized experience. Here's how to get started:

• Create a Detailed Packing List: Avoid overpacking and forgetting essentials by creating a comprehensive packing list. Categorize items by type (clothing, toiletries, electronics) for easy reference. Digital checklists are great, but a handwritten list can be satisfying too.
• Utilize Packing Cubes: These fabric containers are a game-changer for organized packing. They compress your clothes, separate items, and make it easy to find what you need without rummaging through your entire suitcase. Color-code them for even greater efficiency!
• Choose the Right Luggage: Select luggage that suits your travel style and destination. Consider a carry-on with ample compartments for short trips or a larger suitcase with built-in organizers for longer vacations. Don't forget a personal item like a tote bag or backpack for essentials you need readily accessible.
• Prepare Travel Documents: Keep all your important documents – passport, tickets, hotel confirmations, and insurance information – in a designated travel wallet or folder. Make digital copies and store them securely in the cloud or on your phone.
• Plan Your Outfits: Avoid packing unnecessary items by planning your outfits in advance. Mix-and-match clothing pieces can significantly reduce the amount of luggage you need.

On the Go: Maintaining Order During Travel

The journey itself can be a source of disorganization, but with Joanna's tips, you can stay in control:

• Snack Smart: Pack healthy snacks in reusable containers to avoid impulse purchases and messy wrappers. A hungry traveler is rarely an organized traveler.
• Utilize Travel-Sized Containers: Decant your favorite toiletries into travel-sized containers to save space and comply with airline regulations.
• Designated "Dirty" Clothes Bag: Keep your clean and dirty clothes separate by using a designated laundry bag. This will prevent your clean clothes from becoming soiled and make unpacking much easier.
• Stay Hydrated: Carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste.
• Clean as You Go: Take a few minutes each day to tidy up your hotel room or rental. This will prevent clutter from accumulating and create a more relaxing environment.

Destination Delight: Unpacking and Settling In

Arriving at your destination is exciting, but unpacking can often feel like a chore. Joanna's advice will help you settle in quickly and maintain order throughout your stay:

• Unpack Immediately: Don't let your suitcase sit untouched. Unpack as soon as you arrive to prevent wrinkles and make it easier to find what you need.
• Designate a Spot for Everything: Assign a specific location for each item, such as clothes, toiletries, and electronics. This will help you maintain order and prevent clutter.
• Utilize Hotel Amenities: Take advantage of hotel amenities such as hangers, drawers, and shelves to maximize storage space.
• Repack Strategically: As you use items, repack them in a way that makes it easy to find them later. Packing cubes are helpful for this as well.
• Do Laundry as Needed: If you're on a longer trip, do laundry to reduce the amount of clothing you need to pack.

Joanna Teplin's Top Organization Essentials for Travel

Here's a quick overview of Joanna Teplin's must-have organization tools for travel:

By following these tips from Joanna Teplin of The Home Edit, you can transform your travel experience from chaotic to calm and organized. Remember that a little preparation goes a long way in creating a more enjoyable and stress-free journey. So, pack your bags, embrace the adventure, and stay organized every step of the way!