Did you ever think you would see a title that touts OCD as a luxury? I know it seems bizarre, but I can tell you my ‘gift’ of OCD is not the curse is normally when we organize and plan a trip. You have probably come to know me pretty well by now, and you have figured out that I am a bit OCD about most everything.
Whether I am cleaning, cooking or organizing things my OCD kicks into high gear and of course I look for products to enhance the process. Right now my OCD is in high gear as I have prepped up to travel for work! My little knack for planning throws my husband over the edge but he knows that nothing will be missed, forgotten or not well-planned. I have taken what normally works against me and made it work for me.
If I am comfortable, and in control of my own little world, everything goes very smoothly(lol). It is key to plan before you hop off onto a vacation with a family of any size as planning can save you time, money and much disappointment. The luxury of OCD for travel works well for me, but I can gift you the process to help you organize your packing and planning, so you too can lavishly live travel out loud.
The Luxury of OCD For Travel
I do not see my OCD as a problem, I let it work for me. Of course, I had to have help to get my processing skills to work when needed but I have learned that if others can do what I do planning and organization becomes helpful. Processes become easier because they are streamlined and organized.
From apps to organized packing, it is all about the process and getting it together before I leave.
Planning
In my world it is critical to have ALL the answers, there is no way I can travel without them and in some instances this little stage will help us out later.
Emergencies
One example: I make sure I have the fire, and the police department number of the area we are staying in and if we are at a property rental I pre-program the management’s number in the phone in cases of problems.
Think that is odd? Here is where that was the best move ever. We had been at a rental property, a home in Florida, and we went to use the pool, and it was ice cold. We were traveling in the winter months and we had signed the agreement for pool heat and for the BBQ to work and neither functioned. Had we needed to stop and look all this up, I would have been in email hell, but organized and ready, I just pulled out my smartphone and let my fingers do the walking. Easy and the problem was fixed by the time we returned home from the parks!
We also let our local police know when we are out of town it helps to have them know rather than break-in to our home because of alarm calls (we have had this happen thanks to our lovely neighbors )
I also use travel apps that have a lot of information about the areas we are staying in and you can read more about useful travel apps HERE.
Packing
LUGGAGE
Luggage is so important to me, and every time I travel I buy a new piece or two because my needs are always evolving as are my preferences for what I want in a piece of luggage.
My luggage needs to have useful compartments as well as an incredible telescopic sturdy handle because it is the hub of action. My favorite luggage is Eagle Creek Luggage for its durability and useful pockets, compartments, and flexibility to be what I need when I need it. At current, the Eagle Creek Tarmac 25″ is rocking my travel wheels. I add in the Eagle Creek Pack-It cube sets and everything in my luggage is sorted and organized and lovely!
Lists Are Your Best Friend
Whether you make a list via an app or the old-fashioned pen and paper, the organization will occur.
Laugh as you may but that good old packing list that is ten layers deep is my best friend. What Do I mean? When I write the word BATHROOM DOWN, I then subdivide the list into Hair, Nails, Face, and Body, which allows me to then further divide the list.
I take Hair and make a list that offers what I use for hair such as shampoo, conditioner, hairspray, combs, etc. I do the same for each of the categories and then I am ready to pack and check things off the list. You might be shaking your head and telling me to ‘relax’ but there is nothing more
When I write the word BATHROOM DOWN, I then subdivide the list into Hair, Nails, Face, and Body, which allows me to then further divide the list. I take Hair and make a list that offers what I use for hair such as shampoo, conditioner, hairspray, combs, etc.
I do the same for each of the categories and then I am ready to pack and check things off the list. You might be shaking your head and telling me to ‘relax’ but there is nothing more
You might be shaking your head and telling me to ‘relax’ but there is nothing more devastating to me than not having what I need when I need it, that is the lovely OCD thing I have going on. I don’t feel like running to the store, when I could have just run to my bag, therefore, planning is the ultimate relaxation tool for me.
Create an Effective Packing List
I initially suggest creating a list of all the things you think you need to bring, and think is the operative word.
- Make a fun list and from there it is time to seriously scale back and take control of the next list.
- Additional lists you might want to consider if a list with each person’s name, and responsibility for packing. You again might be laughing, but a few years back, before we had the built in DVD package in the vehicle, the kids LEFT their portable DVD player at home. This car ride was the longest 15-hour ride we have ever been on and I can tell you I suffered just as much as they did, back and forth! Therefore, planning and providing lists to the kids is just as important as the main lists you will be making.
- List #3 clearly should support any items you need in the vehicle to make the ride perfect, from blankets to water, and a small portable shovel. You have to have everything covered if you are driving. AltneAlternativelyou is flying your list might contain pillow, ear plugs, hoodie, etc., no matter the type of transportation, list out what you need to survive the trip and then make sure you have it with you.
- I also create the MOM list and this list has some fun stuff on it ranging from my favorite wine glass or coffee mug to the favorite teddy bear in the house because I know if we forget this someone is not sleeping!
Remember, for me the luxury of OCD for travel keeps me relaxed and my ability to enjoy is heightened.
Need tips for Well Packed Shore Excursion bags when cruising? Or maybe good tips for How To Pack A Pet To Travel?
Even if you are not OCD, make sure to prepare lists as they are helpful and will lead to some of your best adventures and most fulfilling vacations because what you need is with you! Lavishly live travel out loud!
Dana is a freelance luxury lifestyle blogger who lives and shares her journies with you. Affiliate links contained within.