Vacations are an exciting time. You’ve booked your flight and found the perfect hotel and now all that’s left is packing. Whether you’re traveling carry-on only or anticipating bringing home lots of souvenirs, it’s important to pack light. Carrying heavy luggage is not only cumbersome, but it could also lead to extra costs from the airline. Take a look at how you can lighten the load when packing. 

Do:

Make a list.

Before you start packing, make a list of everything you want and think you’ll need for your trip. Include accessories, toiletries, clothes, and entertainment items like books and tablets. Now edit the list until you’re down to just the essentials. Not only will this help before the trip, but it’s also an easy way to make sure you have everything as you pack up in your hotel at the end of the vacation.

Check the weather.

Check the long-range forecast before you start packing, and only bring items that are appropriate for the weather conditions. This will eliminate the need to bring a jacket if it's going to be hot the entire week, for example. Conversely, if it's going to be colder than expected, you won't have to pack both pants and shorts.

Don’t:

Pack duplicates.

It can be tempting to pack a variety of the same type of item so you have several options to choose from. However, these extras are probably just going to take up space and not get used. Instead of packing multiple sunglasses, hats, and pairs of shoes, choose your favorite of each. 

It’s also a good idea to consider what items have multiple uses. For example, the right pair of sandals can be worn on the beach, while sightseeing, and to a nice dinner, eliminating the need for multiple pairs of shoes.

Bring large toiletries.

Make sure any liquids in a carry-on are in 3-ounce containers; otherwise, they'll have to be thrown away at the security checkpoint. But even if you're checking luggage, it’s best to leave the large shampoo bottles and body washes at home. Instead, buy travel-sized toiletries or travel-sized toiletry bottles and fill them with your favorite soaps and lotions. Most hotels will provide the essentials, so unless you prefer a specific brand, you can leave behind the soaps and shampoos. 

Stay in comfort when travelling to Carlsbad, NM, at Stevens Inn. With more than 200 rooms, this recently remodeled hotel offers amenities like indoor and outdoor pools and a fitness center. It is centrally located near Carlsbad Caverns National Parks and other attractions. Book your room today at (575) 887-2851 or visit their website to learn more about their available accommodations.