Packing tips for spring break suitcase

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOTV) -  

If you're heading for warm weather and sunny skies this Spring break you're ready to trade in your snow boots for a fabulous pair of flip flops.  The best advice is to pack smart, especially if you're planning on checking a bag or two at the airport.

Check the forecast.   

Buy a fresh bottle of water proof sunscreen.   The price tag on a bottle sunscreen at hotel gift shops will leave you grumbling all the way out to the pool.  Save some cash and pickup a new bottle on that last minute run to the grocery store.   Remember throw out last year's sunscreen.  Experts say it won't work as well if it gets too old.  

Best way to remember bathroom products. 

The night before you leave load up your travel bag with the main essentials:

-Mini shampoo & conditioner

-Shaving get & razors

-Extra pair of contacts/glasses

-Perfumes, Deodorant, lotions/face cream

-Prescriptions/medications

-Jewelry

Last minute adds:

Then the morning you leave set your travel bag on the bathroom counter.  As you go through your morning routine toss in every item you're using.  That way you can be sure you're not going to miss anything.

-Makeup

-Hair products

-Styling tools/curling iron/flat iron

-Toothbrush/toothpaste

-Contact solution & case

Mix & Match for clothes & shoes:

Review the internary for your trip and be realistic with your wardrobe.  By coordinating your outfits you can eliminate the extra stuff, "I might wear that....".  If you're thinking it, chances are you won't wear it and it's not worth the panic at the baggage weigh station with your monster suitcase.

-swimsuit & cover-up

-Pool sandals

-Beach bag or tote

-Consider switching to a smaller travel purse with a long strap that you can sling across your body and zips closed.

-1 or 2 dressy outfits in case you hit the town.  Choose outfits that are similar colors so you can wear the same pair of shoes with both outfits.  

-Pick one comfortable pair of sandals in a neutral color.  You'll find yourself wearing them everywhere and will be so happy you left the other 17 pairs at home.

-Proper undergarments.  Dig out your strapless bra from the back of the drawer.  The west Michigan winter has it buried but it's time for tank tops and dresses.

Carry-on quicklist

-All travel documents including your flight printout, hotel confirmation, rental car printout, passports, ID's, and any directions you may need.

-Magazines/Nook/Kindle

-Hand sanitizer

-Headphones

-Ipad or travel DVD player

-Small pillow

-Gum