If you’re like many people and find it hard to pack lightly when arranging your suitcase for an extended trip, the process of packing can be a frustrating one.
It can be hard to whittle down a list of things to take when going on holidays, after all, who knows what unexpected things you might be invited to do whilst on the trip. While you might not be ready to part with anything on your list, there are a few things that you can do to ensure that you fit as much as possible into your suitcase. Here are a few tips:
Fill in every tiny space:
From putting things inside your shoes, to ensuring that every corner and crevice is filled, this will help you to gain every extra centimetre of space. It also helps if you roll your clothes (this can also help them stay less wrinkled).
Use airtight plastic bags:
Whether it’s ziplock bags for smaller items such as underwear, or larger vacuum-sealed bags (available from BIG W) for large things like ski clothing, airtight bags will not only save you space but will also help you to keep your suitcase organised.
Leave room for souvenirs:
Most people buy at least one thing whilst on holiday, so remember to leave some extra room in your suitcase for the things you’ll be bringing back with you.
Make a list of what you’ve packed:
As you wear/use each item in your suitcase while you’re on your holiday, mark it off the list. Review the list when you get home to see what you did and didn’t use. You might be surprised at how many things never left the depths of your suitcase, which could encourage you to pack more lightly in future.
Remember to also make protect the contents of your suitcase by taking out a travel insurance policy before you go.
When deciding on clothes to take, I make a list of tops and bottoms, then work out what “mix & match” garments I can make with the minimum number of pieces. Tops that can be layered come in handy for cooler weather. For warmth, add one light jacket that can cut out cold winds and repel moisture. Always have a pr of jeans and a pr of comfortable shoes for walking. I wear the bulkiest items on the flight (ie jeans, hand-carry the jacket, wear the pr of walking shoes, & keep the extra pr or two of dressy shoes in the luggage). I agree that rolling up your clothes creates more space in the suitcase.