Road Trip Tips: Keeping the Car Clean

If you’re taking a road trip this summer, Real Simple has a few tips to keep your ride clean. First, start with a clean car; if you wash and vacuum it ahead of the trip, it will set expectations for passengers. Have plenty of cleansing wipes and small bags on hand for in-car cleanup. Set clear rules for rider behavior and perhaps what foodstuffs can be consumed en route, especially for kids. And finally, be sure to clear any trash from the car every time you stop for gas or a bathroom break. Making cleanup a constant can cut the stress!

Summer Vacation Organization

As personal organizer Helena Alkhas says, “summer vacations require planning and organization.” Make notes on what you want to do and who’s coming along, then pick and research a destination. Make a folder of important documents — reservations, maps, passports, etc. — as you collect them. Then, figure out what to wear; some locales will require layers even in the warmest months. Finally, pack essentials such as prescription drugs, eyewear and power cords in your carry-on, just in case your luggage is lost or delayed.

Smart Summer Packing

Traveling with children requires creativity in packing, says professional organizer Sylvia Daoust. It’s a challenge to have what you need when you need it and still economize on space, so make a packing list for your summer vacation ahead of time to avoid leaving something necessary behind or taking too much. Equipped with a list, children as young as six can pack their own suitcases, but you’ll want to have snacks, music, toys and “screens” on hand to keep them entertained — and especially if you’re traveling by car.

Pack Light for Summer Travel

To ease and organize your summer vacation planning, says the Organized Home blog, pack light! Zipper bags will come in handy: Pack small items in them to organize your suitcases, or use them to pack each day’s outfits for a child. Deliberately underpack if you’re going on a leisure trip, since you’ll probably pick up a souvenir T-shirt or two, and pack only your most worn-out socks and underwear. You can wear them one more time and toss them when you’re done.

Ready for the beach!

Going to the beach or the pool is a timeless summer tradition. When you’re trying to get kids ready for a trek to the city pool, though, it can be difficult. In order to make getting ready easier, keep all your beach towels, sunscreen, swimsuits, hats, and other pool-time accessories in one place. This will get your relaxing beach or pool time off to a great start!