BRYAN, Texas (KBTX) -Many will agree that packing and unpacking is one of the least exciting parts of taking a vacation.
Some will overpack, while others will forget a few important items.
To help you pack smarter and lighter, travel agent Brittany Hooks shares her must-have items.
“If you’re going somewhere tropical, or hot, you definitely want to bring a hat with you,” Hooks said. “My first travel tip is to get a bag clip for your hat.”
A bag clip is inexpensive and will save you space in your bag, and maybe a little embarrassment so you don’t have to wear your big beach hat in the airport. Instead, just clip it onto any other piece of luggage.
For a personal item, Hooks recommends bringing one that has a trolley sleeve, so you can hang it onto your suitcase and spare your shoulders from the extra weight while getting to your destination.
When it comes to organizing clothes, Hooks strongly suggests getting packing cubes. She said each of her kids have their own packing cube color, so there is no confusion.
“When we unpack at our destination, I just open up the suitcase and put them either in the drawers or the shelves, and everybody can find their clothes because they have a color,” Hooks added.
For that extra piece of mind, Hooks brings Apple AirTags on her travels.
“You can AirTag your luggage, drop it in your suitcase so you can find it and track it,” Hooks said.
They also have wristband attachments, so you can track your child in case they get lost.
Some of Hooks’ other travel essentials to note include stain removers for on-the-go, a portable luggage scale and a bright strap or tag to better identify your checked luggage.
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