Decluttering your travel experience helps you make the most of your time away, says professional declutterer Kate Ibbotson from the Association of Professional Declutterers & Organisers. Here’s her tips on how to do it.

Don’t overcomplicate things

The cost of a holiday seems to increase year on year. Within your social circle, there may be pressure to visit certain destinations and do things a certain way. Forget what everyone else is doing. Gear your trip according to what you and your family can comfortably afford and what you genuinely enjoy. Use the opportunity to go back to basics and enjoy the simple things in life like good food, a tech break, good conversation and being outdoors.

Resist over planning

One reason we love going away so much is the simplicity. Our responsibilities are scaled back and one suitcase of possessions is enough. So don’t feel you need to jam pack your schedule whilst you’re there. Allow time to see how the days unfold and to be spontaneous not to mention allocating time to simply do nothing.

Research your destination to help you pack

What is the weather going to be like? What activities will you be doing? What religious or cultural dress codes should you respect? Use this knowledge as the basis of your packing list. A little research goes a long way to getting the most out of your holiday and reduces the need to pack ‘just in case’ items. (Read the NOW guide to travelling light here).

Give yourself a buffer

Give yourself time to get into holiday mode. There’s nothing worse than feeling rushed whilst packing because you’re working right up until the minute you set off. Likewise, give yourself a day or two to potter around at home after you get back so you’re not thrust straight back into everything immediately.

Leave home behind completely

Immersing yourself in the culture of a new place has all sorts of advantages. You’ll feel like you have had a true break from the daily grind which alone is worth it’s weight in gold. You will also gain different perspectives which will help you grow as a person and broaden your view of the world.

Document your experiences

Keeping a travel journal is a great way to document your experiences but it takes up far less room than souvenirs from each place. Journaling whilst you’re away gives you chance to focus on the little things you feel grateful for and reflect on your day. What a wonderful addition to the memory box and something to read to the grandchildren one day.

APDO Association of Professional Declutterers & Organisers has hundreds of accredited members in the UK and internationally. They work with clients in their homes and offices and remotely, have various specialisms, deliver talks and workshops as well as share their expertise with the media. APDO also offers training, mentoring, networking, promotion and support for professional organisers.