Are you sure you've packed everything for your trip? Shorts... check! Polo-shirt... check! A couple of pairs of jeans... check! Stain stick and laundry detergent... check?
If you've overlooked the stain stick, there's still time to prepare. This guide will ensure you're fully equipped for handling spills or daily washing needs while on vacation.
Opting for hotel laundry services can be convenient if available, but be mindful of time constraints. Not all stays are lengthy enough, and such services can be costly. Hotel laundry might not be reliable for quick turnarounds, especially for single-night stays, potentially leaving you without your clothes.
Heading to a laundromat may seem straightforward, but it can consume valuable sightseeing time in places like the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre, or enjoying European delicacies at a local café.
The third and perhaps most convenient option is washing your clothes in your hotel room with a bit of preparation. For minor spills, a stain stick works wonders. Some detergents even offer portable "to go" versions that fit neatly into your jacket pocket or purse.
For larger washes, investing in a travel clothesline is beneficial. It takes up minimal space and proves invaluable if you're a frequent traveler. Compact travel detergents like Tide Travel Sink Packets ensure you have enough detergent without sacrificing souvenir space.
Timing is crucial when washing on the go. T-shirts, polo shirts, and undergarments can dry overnight if washed early. Jeans, however, take longer and should ideally be washed early on an overnight stay or when you have ample time before dinner. Remember, jeans can often be worn more than once on shorter trips before needing a wash.
To dry clothes effectively, lay them flat on a towel, roll up the towel, and gently squeeze out excess water. Plastic or pants hangers are handy for drying, especially since some hotel hangers can't be removed from the rods or may be limited.
Carry a couple of plastic bags for convenience. Use one to separate damp clothes until they dry completely, and another to segregate clothes you won't wear again to keep clean and dirty items separate.
Lastly, packing darker clothes can extend wear between washes as they show less dirt. Always ensure your clothes pass the smell test after a few wears.
Safe travels!