Whether you’re jetting off in pursuit of sunshine or you’re preparing to hit the slopes or pound the city streets, it’s important to make sure you can pack like a pro. There’s a limited amount of space in that suitcase, and you don’t want to waste it. If you want to tick off your checklist without coming unstuck at the weighing scales, here are some tips to help lighten your load.
The essentials
When it comes to packing, there are two categories of items to consider: the essentials and the luxury goods. When you’re preparing to go on vacation, you should always set aside your essential items first. These are the thing you couldn’t possibly live without. Once you’ve got an idea of how many must-have pieces or products you’ve got, you’ll know how much room you’ve got available for the non-essentials. Every person will have a different set of essentials, but it’s likely that you’ll have clean underwear, a couple of pairs of shoes and a few outfits in this category, as well as medication and toiletries you need. It is worth bearing in mind that it’s often possible to shop abroad, so don’t bother trying to cram in sunscreen or shampoo if it’s going to take you over your weight limit. You can always buy the basics when you arrive.
Maximizing the space
If you pack properly, you can fit a lot into a small suitcase. If you’re only taking cabin bags, for example, you’ll need to master the art of packing light. Roll your clothes to save space, and wear your heaviest, bulkiest pair of shoes on the flight. You can always take them off once you’re airborne, and it’ll free up room in your bag. If you want to take a jacket, wear it at the airport, so you don’t have to pack it.
Creating a capsule wardrobe
If you’re going on vacation, and you want to look the part without paying out for extra luggage, designing a capsule wardrobe is the way to go. Using a few staples, you can create a host of different looks, which will see you through the week in style. If you’re going on a city break, for example, take a pair of denim shorts and a pleated midi skirt and add some basic vests, a blouse, some sandals and a pair of wedges. Teamed with the jeans, casual tee, and sneakers you wear to travel, you’ll have a chic collection, which will enable you to mix and match and wear something different every day.
Image via Geneva Vanderzeil
Are you one of those people who always takes far more than they need? Do you find yourself forking out for extra luggage at the check-in desk? Do you throw everything into your suitcase and then spend 20 minutes sitting on it, trying desperately to zip it up? If this sounds familiar, it’s time to learn to pack like a pro and lighten your load. Bear these tips in mind to save you time, money, and effort next time you travel.