PACKING LIST
Top packing tips
Packing a suitcase efficiently is a skill. If you’re like us, you’ve experimented with the best way to pack your suitcase for maximum storage and organization.
Tips for Packing a Suitcase
Packing a suitcase efficiently is a skill. If you’re like us, you’ve experimented with the best way to pack your suitcase for maximum storage and organization. These tips will help you make the most of your space.
First things first…create your packing list using the TripSava app. A list will help you avoid overpacking and ensure you don’t forget any essentials. List everything you’ll need for your trip. Here are a few suggestions:
- Pack versatile clothing that can be mixed and matched to create different outfits.
- Use travel accessories to keep your belongings organized (e.g., packing cubes, garment bags, shoe bags, toiletry kits)
- To keep your dirty laundry separate from your clean clothes while traveling, take a laundry bag.
Once you’ve made your list, choose the right suitcase or travel bag for your needs. Things to consider:
- Mode of travel
- Carry-on and/or checked baggage & any size or weight limitations
- Size
- Durability
- Features (e.g., wheels, handles, compartments)
- Weight of your suitcase (how much of your checked weight are you going to give up as the weight of your suitcase, versus contents you pack)
Now, it’s time to pack!
Roll your clothes – Instead of folding them, roll each item tightly and stack them in rows. This method can save space and reduce wrinkles. Note: Some articles of clothing are less likely to wrinkle if folded. These include dress shirts, blouses, and formal wear. Fold these using tissue paper to help minimize creases.
Use packing cubes or compression bags – These will help organize your clothes and make the most of the space.
Place heavy items on the bottom – If you put heavier items, like shoes and toiletries, on the bottom of your luggage, you will create a stable base for the rest of your items.
Layering your clothes – Put your heavier and bulkier items on the bottom and lighter ones on top to help distribute the weight more evenly.
Utilize empty spaces – Fill empty spaces, including shoes, with small items such as socks, underwear, and accessories.
Pack delicate items carefully – For items such as jewelry and souvenirs, use padded pouches or wrap in clothing to cushion them
Use plastic bags – Place toiletries and liquid items in sealed plastic bags to prevent leaks and spills.
Leave room for souvenirs – If you expect to buy souvenirs, be sure to leave some extra space in your baggage for them.
Pack an essentials carry on bag – Include items you’ll need on your first day, such as important documents, a change of clothing, toiletries, and medications. This is important just in case you spill something on your clothes on your flight or during transit – we have experienced drinks and turbulence, not a good combination. Sometimes luggage does not turn up at the final destination – the essentials bag should cover you for at least the first day!
Keep valuables in your carry-on – You’ll want to have easy access to your important documents, jewelry, electronics, and medications as you travel.
Avoid overpacking – It’s easy to overpack! Do your best to take only what is essential. Most travelers don’t wear everything they’ve packed.
After you’ve packed, there are just a couple more things to do:
Lighten your load – To make your travel easier, remove any items you can do without. The lighter your bag is, the happier you’ll be.
Check weight limits and weigh your bags – Find out what the weight limit is for bags on your airline or other mode of transportation. To avoid additional fees, weigh your bags to make sure they are under that limit.
WIth your packing done, you will have completed one of the biggest trip preparation tasks. You’ll be happy to have a well-organized bag with as few extra items as possible. You’re on your way to experiencing your best trip!
