July 2025: Organized for Takeoff with Form + Function

Whether you’re heading out for a long-awaited vacation or a last-minute work trip, travel is a whole lot smoother when you're organized from the start. From packing like a pro to prepping your home and coordinating childcare or pet sitters, we’ve got you covered.

At Form + Function Elevated Organizing, we help people streamline everyday life—and that includes getting out the door (and back home) with ease. Here’s your go-to guide to get travel-ready with calm and confidence. 

✈️ Pro Packing Tips from the Organizing Pros

Packing doesn’t have to be chaotic. Streamline your suitcase and your mindset:

• Start with a List (and Save It!)

Create a reusable digital packing list broken into categories like clothing, toiletries, tech, and travel documents. Apps like Trello, Notion, or even Notes can help.

• Pack by Day, Not by Item

Lay out your itinerary (more on that below), and pack outfits for each day, so you’re not guessing on vacation. We love using packing cubes!

• Toiletry Kit—Always Ready

Keep a dedicated, pre-packed travel toiletry bag so it’s one less thing to think about before every trip.

🗺️ Planning a Travel Itinerary That Works

A flexible plan helps you get the most out of your time and reduces decision fatigue while you’re away. Create one that feels more like a guide, less like homework:

• Choose Your “Must See” Each Day

Select 1 - 2 activities or sights per day, and allow plenty of downtime around them.

• Organize by Neighborhood or Area

Minimize travel time by grouping activities and meals that are near each other.

• Use a Shared Doc or App

Google Docs, TripIt, or Wanderlog are great for keeping confirmations, addresses, and ideas in one place. Share it with your travel companions, sitter, or house manager as needed.

• Leave Room to Be Spontaneous

Over-planning can lead to burnout. Leave space in your day for unexpected discoveries or just a midday nap.

🏡 Prepping Your Home for a House Manager/Sitter

Set your house sitter up for success with a few key touches:

• Create a House Manual: Include Wi-Fi info, security system instructions, garbage/recycling days, thermostat settings, and any helpful quirks (hello, sticky front door).

• Emergency Contacts: List your info, a neighbor, your plumber or electrician, and instructions for emergencies.

• Stock Essentials: Leave clean linens, snacks, and a few comforts to make them feel at home.

• Tidy & Secure: Store away valuables and sensitive documents before leaving.

🐾 Organizing Pet Care

Whether pets are staying home or going to a sitter, make things easy with:

• A Pet Info Sheet: Feeding schedule, meds, vet contacts, quirks, favorite toys.

• Pre-Portioned Meals: Label bags for each day if you’re heading out for an extended time.

• Comforts from Home: Leave their favorite blanket, toy, or shirt with your scent.

🧒 Babysitter or Nanny Prep

Clear communication = peace of mind. Leave your caregiver with:

• Daily Routine: Mealtimes, naps, screen time, favorite activities.

• Health Info: Allergies, medications, pediatrician contact, and insurance card copies.

• Emergency Plan: Contacts, nearby urgent care, and your travel info.

• Extras: Tips for outings, food delivery options, and a little spending cash.

✅ Final To-Do List Before You Leave

• Take out trash + run the dishwasher

• Water plants or arrange care

• Clear out perishables from the fridge

• Adjust the thermostat & set light timers

• Double-check windows, doors, and locks

• Leave a small thank-you for sitters

• Set up your “welcome back” with:

  clean sheets, a stocked fridge, and maybe a little treat

Need a Hand Before Takeoff?

From customized packing systems to printable house + pet sitter guides, Form + Function Elevated Organizing is here to help your trip start (and end) stress-free.

Whether you’ve got a trip around the corner or you’d like to be jet set at a moment's notice, contact us to schedule your pre-travel planning session.