Packing Tips 101

     One of the hardest challenges of traveling is knowing how and what to pack for a trip.  While I too, struggle with this, I have learned a few tricks along the way.  It is important to organize everything you’ll need and pack it in a manner that reduces space while also protecting your clothing from leaks or other damage.  If you have ever opened your suitcase to a toothpaste explosion you know just what I mean!
 
     First and foremost, it is important to begin by making a checklist of every item you need to take on your trip.  As you pack your luggage, check items off your list. Include any important documents, clothing, shoes, toiletries, sunglasses, hats, etc.  Your space will fill up very quickly, so list only the necessary items first.   Most ladies can fill an entire suitcase with just shoes! Coats also tend to take up space so it is important to choose a versatile coat.   You may want to check the weather channel for the weather forecast to help you decide appropriate attire. 
 
     Buy travel-size containers for your toiletries, regardless of the length of your trip. This includes your toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, etc.  You can always drop into a local shop to restock your supply of soap and toothpaste unless you will be in a remote location for weeks.  I try to pack the larger toiletry items in a plastic sealable bag in my CHECKED suitcase to avoid having to worry about the security gate confiscating them.  On the other hand, most hotels provide shampoo, conditioner and hairdryers. You can skip packing those items unless you are very particular with your products.

     A good way to prevent wrinkles in clothing is to pack using the rolling technique.   Lay two or three items on top of one another, smooth to flatten, and roll them up like you would a sleeping bag to save space and prevent wrinkles. For added wrinkle insurance, place a sheet of heavy tissue or packing paper between items of clothing before rolling. Pack sweaters, jackets, and underwear in reusable compression bags, which can create up to 75% more space in your luggage. These lock in odors, so they also work for storing dirty laundry. Place breakable items, like jewelry or glass, wrapped in socks and tucked into shoes inside your luggage. 
 
     Know which items not to bring on a plane. This applies to safety, size, weight, and even food, as there are restrictions on all of these. Safety restrictions vary between countries but include obvious safety hazards (knives in your carry-on, flammable liquids in any of your luggage), not-so-obvious hazards (nail clippers or files in your carry-on), and an unopened bottle of water on US flights – unless you purchased it after going through security).
 
     Going through security with unchecked luggage:  You are allowed a maximum of 3.4 ounces of a liquid/gel per container (not total). For example, a 2-ounce bottle of shampoo, a 2-ounce bottle of toothpaste, and a 3.4-ounce bottle of face wash would be okay.  All individual containers of liquid must be placed together inside a resealable 1-quart bag so that it can be inspected if necessary.

     Liquid allowances don’t usually apply to prescription medication (provided that you have documentation with you to verify), infant formula, breast milk, or the like. Just be sure to store these separately from your other liquids and inform an agent that you have them.
 
     While packing your suitcase can be somewhat challenging it surely is much more fun because you know you are about to go on a fun trip.  No doubt about it, unpacking when you return is the worst!