When you’re on the job 24/7, anything that wastes your time is simply unacceptable. 

I think the biggest culprit of all is the time I’ve wasted looking for something I need, I know I have, but I just can’t find.

This drives me crazy.

I’ve cut down on a lot of these hunting expeditions through the use of kits, or what I prefer to call “ready packs.” 

The inspiration came when my sister-in-law, Sharon, and I were researching and writing The Hurricane Handbook: A Practical Guide for Residents of the Hurricane Belt. We generated varied lists of useful items based on hurricane preparations for families. I eventually realized that I could apply this concept to everyday activities and projects.

The key is to keep the collected items together and contained so that I simply go to the appropriate ready pack where I can put my hand on just what I need. Basically, I get organized by containerizing. The key is to assemble fairly specific packs rather than just storing as much as you can squish into a big, over-sized bin.

I start by making a list of items appropriate for each pack. I’ll share some of my ready pack lists over the next couple of weeks.

Next, I set aside some time to actually hunt for the items that I already have just one last time. I set the collection on a counter top or table, and determine what kind of container will work for what I already have plus the items I want to add over time.

It’s amazing (and even a little disturbing) to discover how many of the items on the list I already have. But buried in a closet or drawer, they’re useless to me.

This simple project has actually saved me tons of money in the long run because I wasn’t constantly replacing items that I already had but couldn’t find.

I print up a list of items for each pack and keep it in the container. I just adjust the list as needs change. If you’re gathering a first aid kit, the list is a handy spot to note expiration dates.

You don’t have to buy fancy, specialized (i.e. expensive) containers. I think the most versatile containers are clear, plastic, shoe boxes from a discount store. The size works for most items, you can immediately tell what’s inside, and they stack for efficient storage. My favorite container for a first aid pack and small items like nails and screws is a tackle box. 

Here’s an example of a Ready Pack to keep near the door or even in your car when you get a chance to spend a few hours outdoors. Please note that nothing needs to be plugged in or charged up. Perfect no matter what age your kids are!

Outdoor Fun Pack

1. picnic cloth
2. sunscreen
3. bug spray
4. buckets and shovels
5. magnifying glass
6. bug keeper
7. bubbles

What would you add or change for your family?