Have a hard time preparing for a trip ? Don’t know where to start ? This article is here to help you . Below , we’ve summarized 8 helpful packing tips used by worldwide travel experts that’ll definitely get you ready for your journey . What are you waiting for ? Let’s begin !
1. Start with a checklist
Rule number 1 — start with a checklist. List down the things you need and mark them off once you put them in your luggage. This allows you to pack efficiently and make sure that you’ve taken all the essentials with you. If you have no idea of how to make a checklist , search online and I’m sure you’ll find plenty .
2. Use packing cubes & Ziploc bags
Packing cubes and Ziploc bags are the keys to smart packing . They create more space and makes finding items a ton easier . Categorize your stuff by sorting it into different cubes / bags . For example , put all the toiletries and makeup products into a cube , socks into another , and underwear into a third one . Pack your electronic cables and chargers for different devices into separate Ziploc bags . There are many ways to do it .
3. Roll your clothes
Always got piles of wrinkled shirts in your luggage ? Well , fix this problem simply by rolling your clothes ! Compared to folding it , this method helps you avoid wrinkles and saves up space in your suitcase , since rolled garment can be stored tightly into corners and sides . Also , keep in mind that you can always wash your clothes , so don’t take up too much space by overpacking the unnecessaries.
4. Cover your shoes with a shower cap
This technique will surely save you plenty of mess — especially if you’re heading to the beach . At the same time you bring home the joy and happiness from your summer holiday , you might as well bring in grains of sand stuck to the sole of your shoes . Having the sand scattered all over your luggage can be a pain in the ass , not to mention cleaning it up . By covering your sandals with a shower cap , you can stop this from happening and keep your suitcase clean .
5. Know your baggage allowance policy
Make sure to look up the baggage restrictions of your airline before your check-in . This is a good way to prevent ending up paying unexpected additional fees . We also recommend that you weigh your luggage at home first . Or , what’s even better , is to bring a digital scale along with you , so you can weigh your luggage both to and back from your destination .
Here is a chart we’ve organized about the carry-on baggage regulations of more than 90 airlines worldwide to help you out ( CLICK ME ) . However, do refer to the airline’s website to double-check if they’ve made any changes .
6. Bring an adapter
Power sockets vary around the world , which makes it really inconvenient for international visitors . Bringing an adapter which fits your destination is necessary . Be sure to understand the type of adapter used in the region prior to your trip .
( Check which kind of plug is used in your arrival country via this link : https://www.worldstandards.eu/electricity/plugs-and-sockets/ )
7. Leave extra room in your suitcase
If you’re a shopper, this tip is a MUST . Remember to leave space for your souvenirs , tax-free purchases … any goods you buy overseas . In case of running out of space , I personally always pack an extra bag in my suitcase so I won’t end up having to buy extra storage if my first luggage is full .
8. Personalize your luggage & make it stand out
Getting your bag lost in baggage claim is a nightmare . I once had my bag mistaken by others , which was a horrible experience that wasted me tremendous amount of travel time . I’ve learnt my lesson . Making your luggage as highly recognizable as possible not only saves your time , but also prevents mistakes like this. If your suitcase is one of those black , plain ones that 99 % of the people have , add a colorful luggage straps around it . Also , hang on a name tag so just in case you lose it , you’ll still be able to get it back .