Get ready... get set... get packing!

Now we are starting toward another phase in our journey... the travel is booked, activities planned, surprises primed and the girls' hyper-activity at an all new level meaning there's only one thing left to do - the packing. That's right people, the groan is audible from miles around as you have to turn a heap of clothes, toiletries and the all important haribo into a sensible collection of neatly folded articles that will fit in your suitcase. It's difficult for all of us, no matter how much travelling we have done - all you have to remember is a few key hints and tricks: 

1. You are not heading alone to a dessert island - you will be with others, so instead of doubling up on everything from Shampoo to Moisteriser - can you share with a friend (or three)?
2. Sore feet make everyone unhappy so leave your high heels at home, a pair of boots, trainers and sandals that you have worn before and don't give you blisters are the basic essentials.
3. 'Just in case' is a phrase that can lead you to taking everything you own plus some things borrowed from your neighbours. Think sensibly about the essentials that you will need - there are 35 of us going, if you can't borrow or beg what you need, Switzerland does have stores, so I am sure you will be just fine.
4. This is a ten day trip to the mountains - not a week long catwalk.
5. Finally - liquids have a magical may of escaping from whatever vessel they are in and invading your whole suitcase leaving everything with a faint smell tea tree... make sure you wrap toiletries in platic bags to prevent what mess you can!

Happy packing all, and we shall see you all soon!
Next stop - Switzerland!