How To Pack Like a Pro for the Holidays

Despite not having consistent employment in 2015, I got to visit more places in a year than I've ever before. Once I got a full-time job, I committed to traveling somewhere once a month. Since July, I've been to New Orleans, Chicago, Nashville, and New York. Tomorrow, I leave for Los Angeles and I'm GEEKED.You don't have to make a ton of money to travel (please, take that from this unemployed girl). All you have to do is be smart about your decisions and PLAN. From planning out where you're going to planning what to pack, be strategic. In this post, I will focus solely on showing you how to pack like a pro for the holidays.Right now, it's raining cats and dogs in Atlanta and will continue through Christmas (sucks for you guys!). But when I arrive in LA, it'll be nothing but sunny skies. The first step to packing like a pro for the holidays is knowing what the weather will be like where you're traveling. Once you've figured that out, you can begin.

How To Pack Like a Pro for the Holidays

1. LAY IT OUT - Lay everything you're taking with you out so you can visualize what you're working with. I usually put everything in separate piles on the floor. I separate them into piles of tops, bottoms, toiletries, etc. Figure out what you're going to include. Are you going to wear an article of clothing multiple times? See what can be re-worn so that you won't overpack. Laying everything out is the hardest part of the process. Everything else gets easier as you go.
2. FOLD AND ROLL - My mom taught me how to do this and it has CHANGED MY PACKING LIFE. Really, you save so much space by simply folding, then rolling your clothes. You can see a video tutorial here.
3. WRAP AND SEAL - Shoes, toiletries, makeup and accessories should all be in their own separate bag. You know the drill: make sure all products adhere to TSA rules. No full size anything in your carry-on. And if you're going on a short trip, bring shoes that can be worn with every outfit. No more than 3 pairs (including the one you wear to the airport). Use ziplock bags and travel-sized bags to store dirty laundry. 
4. STUFF IT UP - Take whatever you consider a delicate item and stuff them in your carry-on. If your carry-on doesn't have pockets, then fold and roll your undies, and yes, stuff them around and in-between your clothes. 

TIP: Can't remember where I read this but place a sheet of fabric softener in your suitcase to keep your clothes smelling fresh.TIP: Leave some room for souvenirs! Don't over-pack because you'll most likely be bringing goodies home with you.And that's it! Now you know how to pack like a pro for the holidays. You'd be surprised how quickly you can pack when you prepare and how much you can pack when you organize well.