We’ve gathered together our top tips to help you master the art of packing. Haven’t we all sat on our suitcases in desperation to just shut the bloomin’ thing? Or ‘panic packed’ two minutes before we leave for the airport – shoving in that additional pair of sandals (don’t make me choose between the white and beige pair!).
Once you’ve checked the weather conditions in advance, you’ll have an idea of what to pack. If you’re going to a tropical destination, naturally you’ll want to be prepared to dress for hot, sunny days and balmy nights, but you might also want to pack some warmer clothes for unexpected cooler, overcast days, or even rainy ones. Remember that wearing layers is optimal for any climate, as you can add more if you get cold, or take a layer or two off if you’re too hot.
- Gather your clothes
Gather all the items you may need on your trip, then edit down your choices so you don’t over pack (a common mistake!). Planning daily outfits in advance will help you put back at least half of the items you think you need. Pack double-duty garments, like a simple sarong that can also be worn as a wrap.
As a side note: always, always have an extra set of clothes in your carry-on luggage. Always. You never know when/if your luggage will be misplaced, and you don’t want to be stuck in your travelling clothes until the rest of it shows up.
- Roll your clothes
Tightly roll softer, wrinkle-resistant garments, like tees, jeans and cotton trousers, and place them along the base of the bag.
- Place folded items on top
Next, fold stiffer and/or wrinkle-prone garments like shirts and blazers. Layer these folded items over the rolled clothes beneath.
- Drape longer pieces like pants and skirts
Fold longer items in half, filling the length of the bag with them, alternating waists with hems at the ends. Pick bulkier items to wear on the plane or in the car so they don’t take up precious luggage space.
- Add smaller items
Look for nooks and crannies to fill with smaller items, like socks and underwear.
- Line suitcase with belts
Snake belts around the perimeter of the bag. Then cover the whole pile with a dry-cleaning bag. Thanks to the bag’s slippery surface, folded clothes won’t stay in one place long enough for creases to set.
- Choose shoes wisely
Pick three pairs of shoes, like a casual sandal or ballet pumps, sneakers, and an evening shoe –go for styles that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Wear the heaviest pair en-route and pack the others along the sides of your suitcase in re-sealable bags.
- Pack your jewellery
Stow inexpensive jewellery in a seven-day plastic pillbox or canister. Wear any fine jewellery en-route to ensure it won’t get lost or stolen.
9. Weigh your suitcase
If you’ve already arrived at the airport when you discover that your bag exceeds the airline’s weight limits for luggage, you have two options: remove some items from your bag or pay the overweight baggage fees (which, frankly, can be expensive!). But if you’re at home when weighing your bag, you can swap out some heavier items for lighter ones if need be, thereby making the most of your suitcase space.
10. You’re all set!
Happy packing! For those of you who haven’t planned any holiday yet – watch out! We’ll be listing our top travel spots in the coming weeks!
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