Seven magical packing tips

I LOVE to pack. I confess.

​It's such a fun feeling to be preparing to leave on a trip. The best part is when all the errands are done, the laundry is done, and the empty suitcase is sitting on the bed next to the packing list while music is blaring. 

Like anything else in life, packing skills improve with practice, patience and experience. 

Here are 7 packing strategies that I have honed over the years. 

1. Invest in a lightweight suitcase

I love hardshell suitcases, but they tend to be heavy even when empty. Softshell suitcases made from lightweight materials not only help keep the weight down, but they are also more malleable and flexible while packing, and there are no parts that could crack in transport.

2. Scrutinize your selection

Have your clothes and accessories audition for you before they make the final cut! This seems like a trivial tip, but even as a seasoned packer, I find this bit of “telling the future” hard to do, especially when I am travelling to multiple destinations with different climates or for different occasions. I usually lay my initial selection out on the bed and then cut dramatically through a careful thought-process.

Think in terms of the contexts in which you’ll use what you’re packing. If you have the mildest doubt, eliminate it. Plan outfits – not one for every day or even twice a day, but think instead in terms of mixable and interchangeable combinations and layers. Plan to handwash just a few items if you won’t have access to laundry facilities (in fact: you could pack a travel clothesline, which is super convenient!) Opt for versatile footwear over multiple pairs.

​Cut down heavily on the toiletries; if you end up needing something, chances are you will be able to get it there, or you may be able to live without it! Also, keep toiletries travel-sized even if you are checking your bag in. 

3. Maximize your space

​Don’t fold your clothes as you would in your closet or drawers – lay them flat or roll them. To avoid creases in cotton or more finicky fabrics, roll the item in tissue paper. Be sure to make use of the corners and in-between spaces of your luggage, as well as spaces in purses, boots or shoes. Items like belts can be snaked around the inside perimeter of your suitcase. Store flat items in the zippered pockets and mesh divider of your suitcase. If you’re travelling with gifts, pre-wrapping them will cause you to lose space. You could slip them in a gift bag once you arrive, or take them in your carry-on. To save space in your luggage, wear bulker items (like a hoodie or jacket) while you travel. 

Photo source: thinkstockphotos.com

4. Squeeze the air out! 

​Use Ziploc bags or packing cubes to organize your clothes into batches and compress them as much as possible. This strategy also allows you to keep your clothes clean and dry. It can be annoying to repeat this process every time you take something from your suitcase while travelling, so be sure to thoughtfully group what you will need first, and keep those items near the top of your suitcase.

5. Ward off stains and spills

Pack your liquids in Ziploc bags to prevent leaks. Be sure to carry extra Ziploc bags of various sizes and a garbage bag in case the need arises. Before closing your suitcase, layer the top with a plastic bag or a clean garment bag, to give your stuff an extra layer of protection. 

6. Keep all your electronic gadgets in one place

Keep all your gadgets in a Ziploc bag or pouch so that you're not digging around in your suitcase for a charger, adapter, extra SD card or whatever else! I used to stick chargers in the corners and bare spaces of my luggage but stopped doing that because I would never remember which corner I shoved them into. Having everything in one pouch or Ziploc bag is very helpful, but consider keeping it in your carry-on in the (not rare enough) case that the airline loses your luggage.

7. Keep it fresh

Pack a lavender sachet or fabric softener sheets and you'll be pleasantly surprised at how freshly scented your suitcase and its contents will remain during your trip. 

Photo source: Fleeing France blog

8. Don't forget the duct tape

You'll never know when you might need it. I have, more than once, bought a ridiculously pricey roll of duct tape in foreign currencies in order to salvage (most often) a broken suitcase. Duct tape may be a bit bulky, but it's definitely handy. Add it to your packing list! 

I hope you find these tips helpful!

Leave a comment and tell me a tip of your own that I missed. I'd love to know!

From my heart to yours.

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