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Organize the Car
What do you need at your fingertips while driving? Decide what items always live in your car vs. things that move in and out. Use the car's built-in compartments for permanent supplies. Break it down into ZONES - Driver/Passenger Zone, Kid Zone, and Trunk Zone.
In the Driver/Passenger Zone: Clean out the trash often and have 1-2 trash can(s) that all can access. Store important items in the glove compartment such as owner's manual and emergency medical information, emergency contact numbers, and proof of insurance and registration. Keep other handy items nearby: pen/paper, napkins/wipes, hand sanitizer, high energy snacks and bottles of water, plastic bags, lint roller, chargers, flashlight, maps, receipts/coupons organizer, CDS/magazines, change for tolls, sunblock, bug spray, etc.
In the Kids Zone: Corral the entertainment activities such as books, CDs, and small toys. Consider using a product for storage that also protects the backs of your seats.
And in the Trunk Zone: Store emergency supplies such as first aid and road side kits, Gather loose items in crates/totes such as reusable totes, sports equipment, extra clothes and blankets. Be sure to leave plenty of open room for strollers, foldable lawn chairs, groceries, etc.
Staying Organized While Traveling:
· Try to pack all your items in one suitcase. The less you have to haul around, the better. Take travel-sized toiletries, complete outfits packed in clear bags, and choose items that can be mixed and matched.
· If you're traveling with children, pack quiet, compact toys. Use a portable DVD or music player with a kid-friendly set of headphones. Include some snacks and a beverage in a cup with a lid. And don't forget their security blanket or beloved stuffed animal.
· Develop a reusable packing checklist file on your computer to print off for each trip.
· Create a Travel File folder that you keep with you at all times including important information such as photo ID, passports, itineraries, tickets, contact information and confirmation numbers. Use an accordion file for storing items during the trip such as receipts, maps, brochures and mementos.
Protect your Technology:
o Label your computer with your name and telephone number in case it's lost or stolen. Put away your laptop in the airport or hotel after use.
o Don't use laptop bags because they are easily identifiable and attract airport thieves.
o Travel with a used or older laptop instead of a new one. If something does happen to it, your financial loss is considerably less.
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