I like to take long and relaxing vacations, that's no surprise. Any excuse to get out and get away makes me giddy, almost like a child on Christmas. However, when you have limited paid time off, it's harder to take that long vacation. When I do, I make sure to take advantage of every opportunity that is presented. Fly to your destination, go off the grid, sight see, you name it. Squeeze the life out of your days off so that you can enjoy your trip before you go back to the grind. See a new country, see a new continent, relax on the beach, climb a mountain, surf, swim, be you and discover yourself. 

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MAKE A LIST

Back to the lists. There's nothing I can say that I didn't say in the weekend getaway "make a list" section other than YOU SHOULD BE DOING THIS. Spreadsheets, word documents, phone notes, pen and paper, just make the list. They can be detailed or minimal, extensive or brief, just do it. 

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How do I pack for a week long escape? Here's how to stay efficient: 

• 6 pairs of socks, underwear, bras (sports bras and one nice bra)

• Pajamas 

• Jacket conducive to climate or season (lined rain jacket for the mountains, windbreaker for the Midwest/South, etc.)

• One sweatshirt for the hotel, Airbnb, or airplane cabin

• Three dress outfits (usually a dress and nice wedges, obviously seasonal)

• Three casual outfits (NOT Nike shorts/leggings, typically jeggings, a solid t-shirt, and a cardigan with chucks)

• Five pairs of black leggings, Nike Shorts, etc. depending on climate

• Five shirts (long sleeve or short sleeve, etc.)

• Two pairs of shoes not worn on the plane (usually Chacos and Chucks)

• Two swimsuits, or other activity related clothing (Hiking boots/shoes, tennis shoes, Chacos, etc.)

• Toiletries/Cosmetics: toothbrush, toothpaste, razor, shampoo and conditioner, dry shampoo, skincare routine, comb, body wash, travel makeup (small brush set, travel or sample size cosmetics), hair dryer, jewelry

  • If I'm flying with only a carry on, I stick with travel size products. If I'm flying with a checked bag (shouts to Southwest because that bag flies FO' FREE​) I'll bring everything I need for a full look, full size products included. 

• Contacts and solution

• Phone charger

• Laptop and charger

• Headphones

• Bag for dirty laundry

• Backpack as a "personal item" (flying only) 

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DOUBLE CHECK TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS

I am a meticulous planner. Hotels, rental cars, and reservations are made well in advance to allow for modifications. I'm also extremely anxious before trips. A week before I leave, I make sure to double check all of my travel arrangements. I call hotels to verify reservations, contact Airbnb hosts to see if there have been any changes or if I need to modify my stay, I check with rental car companies to ensure that I have the appropriate pick up and drop off times, see where they are located in the airport, and make sure I have the correct plan selected. 

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DOUBLE CHECK THE AREA YOU'RE VISING FOR CONSTRUCTION, DETOURS, AND DELAYS

There is absolutely nothing worse than arriving to an area and fighting with construction, events, detours, and delays. I've been there... leaving an airport in construction is a nightmare. Finding alternate routes in a city you've never been to can be awful. It's very easy to check the area you're traveling to and near where you are staying to make sure that alternate routes are available and easily accessed. You should also check with construction or closures near the airport and make modifications as needed. 

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Also check your flights the night before and the day of! 

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PACK EARLY

Notoriously last minute for absolutely everything, packing early is the bane of my existence. Typically, I don't do this. Maybe a day before. Recently, I've made myself start packing 3 days before my trip. The earlier you pack, the more efficient you are able to be. When you're not rushing around, you have the time to make sure you've packed everything on you list, ensured that you know exactly what you want to bring, and you can prevent over packing. Double and triple checking my bag is something that eases my anxiety, but I'm not able to check the later I pack. In my recent experience of being an adult and packing like an adult, forgetting something I'd need has not happened as frequently. 

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DON'T TRUST YOURSELF TO REMEMBER LAST MINUTE

I'm forgetful. I've gotten somewhere without my phone charger at least fifteen times, left my laptop on the kitchen table or forgotten to turn off lights or electronics before leaving several times. My tip? Turn off your wax warmers, extra lights, etc. the night before. I don't trust myself to remember to do this as I'm rushing out the door last minute. Same with my phone charger. Have an extra? Pack your 10ft. charging cord the night before and use your spare to charge at night. Same with your laptop- pack it the night before. You can sacrifice one night, right? Typically. 

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MAKE ARRANGEMENTS ON THE HOME FRONT

Dog sitters, cat sitters, house sitters, you name it. If you're going to be gone more than a few days, have someone check on your house, your pets who can be left alone for short spurts, and your property. Think you left something on the porch that needs to be taken inside? Ask a neighbor or a friend. Have some one stop in and water your plants, feed your cats, take out the trash you forgot. You don't want to worry about your house while you're gone. If you have a dog, find a reputable dog sitter or doggy day care, this is critical. Take perishables out of your fridge and dispose of them or use them before you leave. Freeze meat that you've forgotten about. Get rid of your leftovers. Nothing is worse than coming back to spoiled food! 

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