Packing is one of the most overwhelming and stressful parts when preparing for a trip. Everyone has had trips where they had to pay fees when checking their suitcase because it was overweight.
Overpacking is very easy to do, because who doesn't want every creature comfort with them wherever they go? If you follow these easy-to-follow tips and tricks to optimise the space in your suitcase, you can bring along some of your favourite bits while also making sure your suitcase isn't overflowing and heavy.
These tips will also help you easily live out of your suitcase, instead of having to unpack and then re-pack again on the way home.
Make A List
A good rule of thump when packing is to make a list of everything you need. A list helps you pack your bags more objectively. You will go only for the items that you actually need.
There is no need to look at that one shirt you have that doesn't go with anything. Packing lists also help you think more clearly when figuring out what you need, and you are less likely to forget something important.
Try to pack outfits that can be mixed and matched that way you don't have to take a lot of clothes. Another good tip is to google packing lists to have a better idea of what should be in yours.
1-2-3-4-5-6 Rule
If you don't want to look for or create your own packing list, the 1-2-3-4-5-6 Rule is a great option. The 1-2-3-4-5-6 rule basically you should pack the following: 1 hat, 2 pairs of shoes, 3 pairs of pants or skirts, 4 shirts, 5 pairs of socks, and 6 sets of underwear.
Of course, you can throw in extra items, but sticking to this rule will not allow you to overpack too much.
Multi-functional Items
Instead of packing items that can only do one function, try going for ones that do more than one. For instance, instead of bringing a pack of power adapters, get one that adapts by itself.
This also goes for clothing. Try bringing items that can be mixed and matched. Unless you have a special occasion, do not bring items that you know you will only wear once in the trip.
Do Laundry
If you can, doing laundry is great when trying to pack light. If you know you can do laundry at your destination, do not pack any more than a week's worth of clothes.
Once you start running out of clothes, you can simply do the laundry and you will be good to go. On the other hand, if you are staying somewhere for longer than a week and you can't do the laundry, bring more versatile clothing with you.
Maximise Personal Item
For those that are taking to the skies, most airlines allow for one personal item. A good idea is to maximize that item as well. If you have a backpack that you want to take with you for the trip, use that as your personal item along with your belongings.
The key when maximizing your personal item is that it fits under the aeroplane seat, so you do not have to keep going for the overhead compartment to grab things.
9 Essential Travel Items
- Luxsure Neck Pillow Memory Foam
- Worldwide Travel Adapter
- 2 Pack Security Padlock
- Lifesystems Mini Sterile First Aid Kit
- Waterproof Travel Bum Bag
- ZEGUR Suit Carry On Garment Bag
- Flight Knight Lightweight 4 Wheel ABS Hard Case Suitcases
- Contigo Byron thermal travel mug
- Travel Suit Carrier Garment Duffel Bag
Stay Organised
Good ways to organize your items in your luggage is by folding, rolling, and compressing.
When it comes to sturdier clothing, it is better to fold it. Clothes that are of softer fabric are good to roll. Compressing is a good technique to save space, but it can lead you to overpacking.
Another good way to organize your items is with packing cubes, folder, envelopes, or sacks. All of these items let you put items in certain categories in the same container. That way you do not have to dig around your suitcase to find the item you are looking for. Packing folders or envelopes keep your clothes wrinkle-free.
Conclusion
Traveling is always an exciting experience, and it is understandable when you do not know what to bring with you because of how excited you are to be going somewhere different.
However, by keeping a clear mind when packing and following these easy tips, you will not have to deal with a heavy suitcase or bringing something to the trip that you never end up using. Invest in good quality, versatile, and multifunctional items that will last you a long time.
Also, remember to always check the foreign travel advice website from GOV.UK to ensure that you have everything you need for travel to the destination you're heading to. They have up to date advice on over 200 countries around the world.
Another great website for insider travel tips and tricks is Skyscanner. They've personally visited almost every country in the world.
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