Packing for Vacations with Multiple Stops

​When most people think of packing for vacation, they think of piling as many articles of clothing into an oversized suitcase as they can, then stuffing as many items into a carry on as possible, figuring they can sort it all out when they reach their final destination. Some may go the extra step to organize the bags by outfits or types of clothing, but generally the expectation is to take care of it when you get where you are going. Unfortunately, if you are going on a trip that involves multiple stops, that can lead to several problems along the way. If you are going on such a trip, here are some things to consider.
 
Bring Only a Carry-On
 
Lugging around a big, heavy suitcase is a nuisance. But if it’s simply from one destination to another, then back home, it’s not too big of an issue. If, however, you will be moving around every few days, that large suitcase can really impact your vacation. To help make things easier, consolidate to a carry-on only. Most people assume when packing for multiple destinations that they need to pack more. But if you are going to different destinations, you can recycle your outfits. Spending a few dollars on cleaning your clothes will be worth every penny when you don’t have that cumbersome suitcase following you around.
 
Plan Your Outfits
 
Unlike packing for a single destination trip, you need to be extremely careful about what you bring and how it will be worn. Bring clothes which you can mix-and-match – this will make it feel like you are not wearing the same thing every few days, and will allow you to plan the outfits based upon where you are and what you are doing. A shirt that works well with shorts for an outing during the day may work well with dressier pants a few nights later for something more formal. Make sure you know what you will wear every day and to every function on your vacation.
 
Know the Climate
 
If your trip involves different climates or environments, be sure to pack appropriately for them all. If your first leg is at the beach, your second leg is in a major city, and your third leg brings you to a ski resort in the mountains, you need to be sure your outfits are appropriate for all three climates. Similarly, if you are visiting family for a week and will be going to formal functions, then spending a week on the beach, be sure you have clothes that can work in both settings. This is easily accomplished by bringing multi-purpose clothes.
 
Accessories Help
 
For men, this can be watches, sunglasses, flip flops, or boat shoes. For women, this can be bags, jewelry, sunglasses, and shoes. Changing from flip flops to heels or adding a dressy watch can completely transform an outfit but takes up very little real estate in your bag. Packing the right accessories can make or break a vacation with multiple stops.
 
No matter what your destinations or how long you are spending on vacation, by packing smart, I've found some great deals on all sorts of accessories at Jeff's General Store that can help you out and easy to pack so you can avoid carting around that burdensome piece of luggage.

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