After our recent long weekend of exploring and scoring vintage, I’ve learned a little bit more about how to pack and what to pack so you can haul what you need and what you find along the way. Here’s my tips for what to pack on a buying trip.
Packing Materials
I packed 3 towels in the case that I would have something breakable. I wish I had packed more! They seem to take up so much space while folded, but once you wrap a lamp or vase, you’re so thankful you have them. Or you may even need a towel to create a buffer between items. I found that gorgeous black chinoiserie secretary in flawless condition and I did not want a single thing rubbing it. I ended up buying some cheap tablecloths at a thrift store to cover it so nothing would rub it.
I’d also suggest packing some small cardboard boxes or tote bags. I usually have my Scout box, but I had left it at my parents house for my mom to borrow. I might have to get another one of those Scout boxes because they are just fantastic. And they fold flat if you don’t need them!
Snacks
My husband was so smart to pack a case of water bottles. We tucked the case between the captains seats in the back and it was so handy to reach back there for extra hydration. I usually travel with a Tervis or Corkcicle for day trips, but water bottles are so much smarter for extended trips. I was worried about them taking up room for vintage finds, but we ended up drinking most of them and it evened out!
We also packed some granola bars and M&Ms and potato chips. It was great to have the granola bars as a mid morning snack to hold us over until lunch because most days we actually didn’t eat lunch until about 1 or 2. And then we switched time zones. And the time changed. And we were so confused between my car clock and our watches and our phones as to what time it really was. So we just ate when were hungry and it was nice to have these snacks handy. M&Ms for the sweet cravings! it’s just not a road trip without some good snacks!
Layerable Comfortable Clothes
When you’re spending half the day in the car and the other half walking, you want comfortable clothes! I wrote a blog post on what I packed for this trip to be cute and comfortable, but also packed some dressier outfits for dinners, too.
Similar Feeling Good Sweatshirt // Elizabeth Wilsons Designs Judy Lanien Dress // Similar Rattan Earrings // Espadrille Wedges // Hazen Bracelet // Similar Rattan Clutch Here and Here //
Phone Car Charger
I don’t usually charge my phone in the car and I don’t always have a car charger in my phone. When you are constantly using the cellular data to use google maps, it will drain your battery! Just go ahead and leave the phone on the charger in the car while you’re listening to all the directions.
Sanitizers
Obviously, it’s a pandemic and we’ve loaded up on hand sanitizer. However, I have always been cautious with germs when traveling. In addition to hand sanitizer, I would also suggest a tube of Clorox wipes for the car and a package of Wet Ones. I also travel with a small spray bottle of Lysol for the hotel room. Each hotel was very clean! I’ve just always wiped down handles and remotes; long before Covid!
The Wet Ones can be very handy while you’re antiquing. I’m not afraid to go in some junky places; it’s all about the thrill of the hunt! And it’s nice to wipe down with more than just hand sanitizer sometimes.
Do you have any packing tips for a buying road trip? Gimme more ideas in the comments!
