Using Classroom Organizational Strategies on Vacation

Teachers work so hard all year long to organize their classroom in a way that is both functional for the teacher and creates independence in students.  It got me thinking: Why not use that system when it comes to our summer vacations?

The following are organizational rules I live by in my classroom that also serve me well when I'm vacation.

Rule #1: Keep the most important supplies visible
For this, I use Sterilite drawers.  I prefer the 2-drawer cart for vacations because its drawers are large enough to carry bulky items and they come out of the cart for easy transport to various rooms.  The carts go right in the back of the car.

NOTE:  I do NOT use the wheels because I don't want them rolling around in the back of the car.  If I was using them in the classroom, I would definitely put the wheels on.

Rule #2: Label EVERYTHING 
Since the contents of the drawers are likely to change during the vacation, I use packing tape and a Sharpie to label the drawers.

NOTE:  I use a more permanent labeling system in my classroom.  I print, laminate, and cut out the labels and hot glue them to different baskets and drawers throughout the room.  That way, I can easily change the label if I change or move the contents.

You can read more about how I use these items in my post about Hanging Posters so They Don't Damage Walls.

LIFE HACK: Fold a corner of the tape before cutting and/or putting the tape down permanently.  This helps the tape come off the drawers easily AND you'll never lose your place on the tape roll again!

Rule #3:  Keep lesser-used materials in storage until needed.
The materials we won't be using during the trip go in vacuum bags and stored in our car top case.  We bring our vacuum so we are able to re-seal the bags when we leave.

Pillows and bedding go in the XL space saver bags.

Extra clothes go in the Large space saver bags.

LIFE HACK:  If you can't bring a vacuum, just seal the bag until there's only a little space open and lie down on top of it to get the rest of the air out.  Quickly seal it up and it will lie ALMOST as flat as it would if you had vacuumed the bag.  NOTE:  This won't work with fluffy items, like pillows.


Have you ever found yourself using the organizational strategies from your classroom in your home or on vacation?  I'd love to hear how!