It’s time for a new adventure! But, that means it’s also time to pack. Whether you’re going on a weekend getaway or a longer journey abroad, there’s nothing worse than not having everything you need for a trip. Here are some essential packing tips to make sure you are well-prepared for your next trip.
Write a List
Before you start packing, write down everything you think you need to take with you. If you aren’t sure what you may need, check whether your travel agency provides lists based on where you are going. You can also google a list for your specific destination.
Divide your list into different categories such as clothing, toiletries, electronics, documents, and accessories. Use it as you pack and check off things as you go to ensure you don’t forget any essential items.
Travel Light
One of the golden rules of travel packing is to pack light. Sticking to the essentials and avoid packing items you can live without. When it comes to clothing and outfits, pick some staples that you can wear multiple times.
Limit the number of shoes and accessories you bring, opting for items that serve multiple purposes. Sticking to a single colour scheme can also be helpful so you don’t need to bring extra items to match different colours.
Roll Your Clothes
This is a completely underrated tip. Rolling your clothes instead of folding them can save space and help to prevent wrinkles. Start with heavier items like jeans and jackets at the bottom of your suitcase and roll lighter items like t-shirts and dresses on top.
This packing technique not only maximizes space, and makes it easier to see and access your clothing items but it also keeps your items fresh and wrinkle-free.
Packing Cubes
These small, lightweight organizers help keep your belongings neatly organized inside your suitcase and make unpacking a quick and easy task. You can use packing cubes to separate clothing items by type, outfit, or colour making it easier to find what you need without unpacking your entire suitcase.
Some packing cubes also can compress clothing which allows you to fit more items into your luggage. However, be sure to keep an eye on your luggage weight and allowance so that you don’t end up paying extra at the airport.
Packing Your Carry On
Keep important items close by and easily accessible. If you’re flying to your destination always pack essential items such as medications, travel documents, and valuables in your carry-on. This ensures that you have access to the items you may need during the flight, and ensures that valuables or important items remain safe with you at all times.
Don’t forget to pack snacks and entertainment for the journey. Keeping a change of clothes in your hand luggage is also a good idea in case your luggage gets lost along the way.
Check Airline Baggage Restrictions
Always check your airline’s baggage restrictions, including size, weight, and number of bags allowed before you pack. Make sure your luggage complies with these restrictions to avoid additional fees or problems at the airport.
If you’re unsure, contact your airline or visit their website for detailed information. You can also buy extra luggage if you think you might need it.
Travel Sized Toiletries
To save space and comply with airline regulations, pack travel-sized toiletries or decant your favourite products into reusable travel containers.
Remember to pack all of your essential items such as toothpaste, hair products, skin products, and sunscreen, as well as any medications you may need during your trip. If you are packing them in your hand luggage, be sure to check airline requirements and pack them in clear ziplock bags.
Leave Room for Shopping
Remember to leave some extra space in your luggage for shopping and local items you may acquire during your trip. Leave some space in your luggage so that you don’t need to buy another suitcase or pay for overweight baggage.
Keep Your Destination In Mind
When packing, keep your destination in mind. Check the weather forecast and pack clothing and accessories appropriate for the conditions. Think about the activities you plan on doing while you are there. If you’re planning on hiking, for example, be sure to pack appropriate shoes.
Lock It Up
Be sure to lock your suitcase, especially if you are flying and checking it in. That being said, make sure you get a TSA approved lock so that if they need to check, they don’t need to break your lock or case. It is also a good idea to attach a luggage tag in case the bag gets lost and something that makes your bag easily identifiable so that no one mistakes your bag for theirs.
Travelling or a new adventure is always exciting, don’t let the stress of packing take it away! These essential tips will help you pack everything you need to help make your trip memorable, for all the right reasons. When it comes to packing, preparation and organization are key. Keep it neat and be sure to check things off your list as you go along.
