I usually start packing about a week before - suitcases out of loft and a wash & dust - check locks and check spare set of keys.
Then items start getting put in as they're washed - usually just a quick spin in the washer for a freshen up for things that we only take on holiday like our beach towels and certain items of clothing.
The main stuff is usually the day before and then a quick check on the day we fly.
To be honest, providing you have the essentials most everyday stuff can be purchased abroad so not a big deal.
To be honest, it doesn't take that long and I find that having the cases out much longer than a week makes the days drag as i look longingly at them wishing my life away lol.
So in 2 weeks time, the cases will be coming down.
