Often competing with the anticipation of a long-awaited visit to Las Vegas, Maui or Orlando is the nagging consideration of what and how much to bring. This debate can befuddle even the most seasoned traveler, leaving you to anguish over the consequences of either packing too little or stuffing a suitcase to the exploding point (also known as Going Anaconda).

After scouring the web for helpful tips on the subject, we at discount getaway planner Vacation Now were surprised to learn packing is more complex than we thought, especially since our own packing practices typically adhere to the following rudimentary three-part formula:

1. Get suitcase
2. Open
3. Put stuff in

Well it turns out there is so much more to this packing stuff than we would have ever guessed. In researching helpful suggestions, we learned it was possible to cram more information into a single article than is necessary and have therefore concluded that, when it comes to packing tips, like packing itself less is best.

 

DO

Roll your clothes

Tightly rolled clothes take up less space than folded ones and are less likely to get deep wrinkles from creases. If you can’t break the lifelong habit of folding your clothes, consider placing them in air compression bags. They squeeze the air out of garments and give you more room in your suitcase.

Carry-on

If you’re traveling light consider the carry-on option instead of checking your bag. It will expedite your immediate departure from the airport after you’ve reached your destination.

Check-in early

Checking in online 24 hours before your flight is also recommendable for saving time at the airport and getting a better seat.

Make a packing list

Start your packing process well ahead of your departure date. Doing so will give you time to purchase any additional items you may need and ensure you won’t forget something important.

Familiarize yourself with the TSA’s liquids rule

The Transportation Security Administration permits you to bring a quart-sized bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes in your carry-on bag and through the checkpoint. These are limited to travel-sized containers that are 3.4 ounces or less per item. The TSA suggests placing these items in a small bag and separating them from your carry-on baggage to facilitate the screening process. Any liquid, aerosol, gel, cream or paste that alarms during screening will require additional screening.

Keep your essentials close

It goes without saying but it’s probably worth repeating to keep your valuable and essential belongings in your carry-on bag, not in your checked luggage. These include your identification, money, credit cards, jewelry, electronics, passport, and other valuables. You should also pack a zippered pouch containing in-flight comfort items such as remedies, tissues, hand wipes, personal hygiene items, earbuds or headphones, and a pen.

Charge it

It is recommended that you charge all electronic devices before reaching the airport. This will keep you from frantically searching for that rare unused outlet if you are running late.

Know your airline’s baggage fee policy

The airlines’ baggage fee policies are nothing if not arbitrary. Knowing them will save you a lot of frustration – and maybe some money.

Pack Snacks

Healthy snacks, that is. Nuts, breakfast bars, fruit, and baby carrots are preferable to chips and other empty calorie choices for keeping you energized on a long flight. Keep hydrated with water and avoid excessive coffee consumption, which is a recipe for dehydration and edginess.

 

DON’T

Pack More Clothes than You Need

Reducing the number of outfits you pack can significantly lighten your load. Bring neutral colored clothing you can mix and match, and only pack shoes you can wear with multiple outfits.

Bring Things You Can Buy At Your Destination

Save on luggage weight fees by bringing only what you need. Unless you’re going third world, you can safely assume most places have drug and convenience stores that stock simple items that are better left unpacked.

Flash Jewelry and Other Valuables

Or better yet, don’t bring them. Tourists are frequent targets of thieves, and most homeowners’ insurance will not cover the cost of lost or stolen jewelry. If you must bring along your Rolex or diamonds, pack them in your carry-on and not in your checked luggage, which some airlines have a tendency to lose.

Pack Extraneous Gadgets

Not only do they take up valuable room in your personal carry-on, they also require you to pack the items that keep them running (spare batteries, chargers, electrical adaptors and converters). Keep it simple. Your precious phone and a laptop or tablet should more than suffice. And really, does anyone need to bring along a toothbrush sanitizer or a hotel door alarm system?

VACATION NOW

Vacation Now has an innovative approach to vacationing where resorts work with us on wholesale pricing so we can offer you deep discounts on their behalf.  In some cases you won’t have to pay anything except a refundable deposit.  We get discounted rates through direct agreements with our resort destinations.

Don’t be a statistic or let another year go by without using your valuable vacation time. Our certified resort partners at Vacation Now can help you plan a great discount getaway to Las Vegas, Maui, Orlando or even Laughlin, Nevada. Contact Vacation Now for getaways that fit your budget and time.

Our guests enjoy spacious, condo-style accommodations, numerous onsite attractions and great amenities in some of the world’s most desirable vacation destinations.

LAS VEGAS

If you’ve never been to Tahiti Village, you simply must experience a getaway to Las Vegas’ tropical resort retreat. Featuring a sand-entry beach pool, lazy river, condo-style accommodations, two 24-hour hot tubs, an onsite restaurant and spa, and shuttle service to the Strip, Tahiti Village has everything you need to relax, unwind and get away from it all. In-room amenities in larger one-bedroom and two-bedroom units include a fully stocked kitchen, washer-dryer, jetted tub, steam shower and private balcony for your convenience and enjoyment.

For a more intimate resort experience, Club de Soleil evokes the warmth and charm of the French Mediterranean three miles from the world famous Las Vegas Strip. Divided into two distinct properties, Club’s 162 suites offer uncommon space, convenience and privacy. Guests can enjoy two 24-hour pools and hot tubs, two putting greens, a tennis court, a fitness center and complimentary shuttle to the Strip.

In exchange for taking advantage of our discounted rates, purchasers of Vacation Now packages agree to participate in a resort preview at their destination, where you will see all the amazing amenities and benefits the properties have to offer. As you’ll discover once you’ve taken your preview, Tahiti Village and Club de Soleil are wonderful vacation destinations.

We think one of the most important things in life is making positive memories, and one of the best ways to do that is to take a Las Vegas vacation now through Vacation Now. So what are you waiting for? Book a visit today!

MAUI

Casually tropical, definitively Maui, Sands of Kahana is ideally situated between Kapaula and Kaanapali, near to the nightlife of Lahaina and the gorgeous sand beaches of West Maui. Close to everything yet strategically removed from the bustle, Sands of Kahana offers convenient access to all the attractions and spacious accommodations in which to relax, unwind, and get away from it all.

Spacious condominium units come with an array of convenient and desirable amenities, including fully-equipped kitchens, washer-dryers, and private lanais that look out onto spectacular ocean views. Sands of Kahana offers an array of fun activities and convenient amenities, including tennis courts, putting green, barbecues, separate adult and children’s pools, and an onsite restaurant and bar.

Sands of Kahana has everything you need to experience the vacation of a lifetime.

ORLANDO

The Villas at Regal Palms are the exclusive three- and four-bedroom townhomes within the Regal Palms Resort. Of the nearly 600 units on property, the Villas account for a small percentage of the total. They are noted for their spaciousness, amenities and tastefully-appointed décor. The 1,679-square foot Monarch and 1,376-square foot Colonnade both have full kitchens, granite countertops, wood flooring and stainless steel appliances in addition to full-size washer-dryers, flat screen TVs and outdoor terraces. The Villas can easily accommodate large travel parties and provide all the comforts of home.

LAUGHLIN

The Golden Nugget Laughlin is the place for down-to-earth fun along the banks of the Colorado River. In addition to 300 stylish rooms and suites, you’ll enjoy a variety of convenient amenities, innovative dining options, exciting casino games, live entertainment and distinctive event venues. Our award winning casino features 800 reel, digital and progressive slot machines, video poker games, 18 gaming tables, and the chance to win big. Golden Nugget’s incredible restaurants include Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., Saltgrass Steak House, Claim Jumper, Starbucks, and the 24-hour Deli. Each offer exciting menus and moderate prices. There’s no better place to eat. Rent one of our luxurious private cabanas or take a dip in our beautiful outdoor pool overlooking the Colorado River. Experience the hottest night life on the Colorado River, with live entertainment and top DJs from Vegas every Friday and Saturday night.