Packing Strategies

We leave on family vacation later this week and our family personality types always seem to dictate each individual packing strategy. Yesterday I asked John Mark to pull down the suitcases from the attic and he just looked at me and said "but honey, we don't leave for six days!" After I gave him an exasperated glare complete with a huff for emphasis, he pulled down the attic door and went to collect the suitcases.

Today I wiped down all four and made note of any scratches or issues the suitcases might have. Then I fully packed Regan's suitcase using  my packing list. I love this list I bought a few years ago at Pier 1 imports, and can be found at knockknockstuff.com. My reasoning behind packing Regan is I know what I can make sure she doesn't need all week long. We are not planning on swimming or going anywhere that requires dressing up this week so that all of that stuff can be packed. Also because Regan is the lightest packer, the snorkeling gear gets stowed in her suitcase so that no one carries extra amount of weight.


Later today I can start packing myself as well. I know that my life is pretty low key for the rest of the week so nice items, and beach stuff can easily be planned for. I can guarantee  that two suitcases will be sitting by the door for most of the week and I will feel accomplished at checking that off the list.

Then on the opposite side of the spectrum is Becca and John Mark who will literally pack Saturday morning and want half of their stuff washed because they didn't realize they needed it. Actually Becca is the better of the two although she tends to dramatically overpack with "just in case" outfit scenarios. John Mark will insist he just needs a few shorts and t-shirts and then it never fails we go out to eat for nice dinners and he has to go shop for clothes. We have bought more of his wardrobe on vacations then souvenirs.

I can hope that my handing packing lists to everyone early on this week will gently remind them that last minute and underpacking are not the best options for anyone!