How to pack the perfect suitcase
Published on Mon Dec 18 2017 in Lifestyle
Tickets booked, accommodation sorted. You’re well on your way to a relaxing holiday! Now comes the hard part—packing your bags. Deciding what to pack and ensuring everything makes it to your destination in good nick will save you the time and hassle of replacing items once you arrive.
Here are our favourite tips for making suitcase packing a breeze!
Know your limits
The first step to packing the perfect suitcase is knowing what size you can take. It’s no fun reaching the airport only to discover you’ll be charged extra for oversized luggage, or worse, that there’s no room for your bag!
Check with the airline regarding the maximum dimensions allowed for checked and carry-on bags, as well as any weight requirements. Even if you’re driving, measure the car boot to ensure your bags will fit. Airline travelers should also be aware of what can and cannot be packed in their checked bags or carry-ons. When in doubt, check the airline’s website or contact their customer service team.
It’s also important to clearly label your bags, just in case they get lost or delayed. Include an email address, so you can be easily contacted at your destination. A colourful luggage tag can help you or staff quickly spot your bag.
What to pack
Have you ever tried to pack light, only to find that your suitcase barely closes? Carefully considering your wardrobe can make packing a breeze!
Wardrobe choices
A good rule of thumb is to pack three tops for every bottom. Pants, shorts or skirts can be re-worn multiple times, especially if you choose basic colours and forgiving fabrics. Opt for solids and dark denim, and wrinkle-free fabrics like wool, knits and cottons.
Shoes should also be limited to three choices: one pair of trainers, one pair of casual footwear and one pair of formal shoes. You’ll be ready for anything—bushwalking, the beach, shopping, or a fancy dinner!
Keep calm & carry-on
It’s unlikely that your checked bags will be delayed or lost, but it does happen. In these cases a well-packed carry-on can be a lifesaver.
Your carry-on bag should contain everything you need for the first night of your trip. Don’t forget a few basic toiletries (such as, a toothbrush, toothpaste, eye contact holder and solution), any prescription medications, and the chargers and adaptors for your phone, laptop or tablet. You may also want to include a spare set of clothes and pajamas.
Seasoned travelers also know to pack a few airplane comfort basics. An eye mask, earplugs or noise cancelling headphones, and travel pillow can help you get some shuteye. Packing layers for the plane, either a light sweater or blanket, will keep you warm as the temperature drops.
How to pack
Now that you know what to pack, it’s time to learn how to pack your suitcase. It’s all about maximizing space and keeping clothing ready to wear.
Know when to fold ‘em
If you’ve ever searched for travel packing tips, you’ve no doubt heard that you should be rolling your clothing. While this can help you fit more in your bag, not every piece is made for rolling. Soft garments (think jeans, cotton pants, t-shirts and knitwear) can safely be rolled and arrive at your destination wrinkle free. However, stiffer garments should be carefully folded. Starched shirts, blazers, dress pants and skirts can be layered and then folded as a bundle to avoid wrinkles and save space.
Make the most of your space
Fitting everything in your bag can be challenge, even when packing light. But there are a few tricks to create ‘extra’ space and leave room for souvenirs!
Stuffing shoes with socks is a popular tip, but consider tucking a dryer pad inside to help neutralise any odors first. You may also want to wear a bulky pair of shoes on the plane or in the car to avoid taking up valuable space in your bags. Ladies can fill bra cups with underwear or socks to save space and prevent the bra from creasing. Snake belts around the bag’s perimeter rather than rolling them.
Once you’ve finished rolling, folding and stuffing, it’s time to neatly pack everything away. Place shoes and heavy items, like your toiletry bag, at the wheelbase of the bag to prevent it tipping over. Next, layer rolled and folded clothes, then jumpers and jackets on top. Lastly, place any delicate or wrinkle-prone garments on top to avoid crushing them.
On the way home
Repacking a suitcase for the trip home can bring whole new challenges! Consider bringing a compressor bag for dirty clothes. This can help save space and keep smelly items away from gifts and souvenirs.
Speaking of souvenirs, protecting delicate gifts can help prevent a travel disaster. Wrap breakable items in sturdy clothing. Slip glass bottles of alcohol or perfume into socks for added cushioning. When in doubt, ship items instead of bringing them on the plane. It’s better to pay a little extra to get things home in one piece rather than risk breaks or spills in your bag.
And there you have it! Follow these tips and you’ll be ready for your next adventure.
Looking for more holiday tips? Learn how to beat jet lag and stay safe whilst traveling.
About Author: Momentum Life is a leading provider of Life insurance and Funeral insurance in New Zealand.
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