Packing requires that you keep one thing in mind: practicality. Not only must you carefully decide what you need to pack, but you must also strategically organize everything into one compact piece of luggage. While carrying less luggage certainly has its benefits, even seasoned travelers will fret over how to limit their cargo. How is anyone supposed to pack, say, three weeks of luggage into one bag? Don't worry, these seven traveling techniques will help you pack as efficiently as possible for your next long trip.
Make a List and Check it Twice
The first and practically most important tip for packing is to plan ahead and make a check list. A week or so before, plan out your necessities and make a list. Allow yourself enough time to assess your items. Chances are if you pack last minute you will overload your luggage. Lay everything out so that you can see what you have and what you want to bring.
Pile on the Layers
If you are going somewhere that requires warmer clothing, layer yourself, not your luggage. To slim down your suitcase, wear your bulkier items as you travel. Keeping your bulky items out of the suitcase makes room for extended travel items. If you ever get too warm you can always take some off and stow them in the overhead of planes or in the car.
Use Compression Bags
One of the best ways to fit a lot of items into one bag is by using vacuum bags. By compressing and reducing excess air you can fit much more items inside your luggage. It's also good for organizing; need certain items for a certain meeting or evening? You can pack them together and label the bag so everything is in a concise, memorable spot.
Stuff the Shoes
Pack things within things and save space! If your shoes are not in the condition to house your socks, belts or other small items, this really helps maximize the space in your luggage bag. So put them to use while traveling and stuff your small accessories in them!
Another tip for traveling with shoes is always wear your bulkiest pair while traveling. Don't let them take up the space in your bag. And before you even pack your shoes, consider if you really need them. Try to pack fewer shoes by making sure the ones you do pack work with multiple outfits.
Try the Bundling Technique
You may have heard that rolling clothing is the best way to pack. Some say layering flat is the best way. Instead try the bundling technique which is wrapping your clothes in bundles, together. You will find that your clothes will also stay more wrinkle-free.
Do You Really Need That Many Clothes?
There are always ways to get clothing washed and dried while you are on your travels. Check ahead of time and see if your hotel offers a service, or if there are laundromats nearby. If you're visiting friends or family, ask to use their washer and dryer. This can cut back on the articles of clothes you have to pack.
Keep in Mind What You'll Bring Back
Remember, you are more than likely going to make purchases, buy souvenirs and other trinkets. Make sure you keep space in the bag for the trip home, usually its harder to pack for home with the extra items.
There are many items that you may consider bringing along that can be purchased at your destination. Keep that in mind and skip packing items you may just want to buy later.
How do you save space while packing?
Image Credits
The Travel House by Shena Tschofen
Blond in a Fur by Born1945
257/365 by slurpiesandstraws
New Shoes by Dave Morris
