Travel hack #1: The 7-minute suitcase rule

Pack like a pro - for those who prefer travelling to packing.

You know what it's like: the trip is coming up, the anticipation is great - but the suitcase is empty. And suddenly the relaxed holiday vibe turns into a chaotic mess of clothes.

Not with the 7-minute suitcase rule.
I use it for every private trip - whether it's a beach holiday, city break or wellness weekend. Quick, clever and stress-free. Here we go:

Step 1: The holiday wardrobe

Leisure style means: comfortable, easy to combine and ready for spontaneous excursions or dinners with a sea view.

For example, I take:

• 1 pair of airy linen trousers
• 1 pair of shorts
• 1 ‘going out’ piece
• 4 tops that go with everything - preferably wrinkle-free.

🧢 Tip: A cool hat can enhance any outfit - and protect you from the sun.

Step 2: Shoes & accessories

You (almost) never need more than 3 pa

• Comfortable sneakers
• Flip-flops for the pool or beach
• Something more chic for dinner

🎒 Accessories for hand luggage: sunglasses, baseball cap, mini compartments and a Kindle/eReader.

Step 3: Ready-to-use toiletry bag

Pack it properly once - then you only need to top it up. My essentials:

• Sun cream (small tube for hand luggage!)
• Aloe vera gel - travel size
• Travel size shampoo & body lotion
• Deodorant, toothbrush, toothpaste
• Mini first-aid kit (e.g. mosquito repellent, plasters, diarrhoea tablets 😅)

💡 Pro hack: Everything is often more expensive in resorts or beach hotels - so it's better to take it with you.

Step 4: Small technical equipment, big effect

Holiday yes - offline no! Here is my technology set:

• Mobile phone with offline maps (e.g. maps.me or Google Maps)
• Power bank
• Charger & adapter
• Bluetooth headphones (e.g. for the pool or flight)
• My Kindle for relaxing hours

📸 Extra tip: Mini selfie stick or remote shutter release - for cool holiday photos even without a photo partner.

And now: set a 7-minute timer!

Try it out: packing with a timer brings focus - and prevents unnecessary ‘Oh, I could also take that with me...’.

Conclusion:
You save time, have everything you need with you - and your holiday can start stress-free. And hey, there are launderettes everywhere, right?

👉 Here you can find my personal luggage packing list for leisure travel as a PDF: