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We don't recommend filling your suitcase to the brim, and here's why

General

Image: Mantas Hesthaven

Image: Mantas Hesthaven

Travel with ease

We don't recommend filling your suitcase to the brim, and here's why

Packing can be a bit overwhelming, regardless of how much of an experienced traveller you are. Besides using packing cubes and the often-repeated rolling technique to pack clothes efficiently, there are other packing rules that don’t get much spotlight. Read them and see if you can apply them on your next trip!

Travelling starts way earlier than the actual plane or bus. It starts with all the planning behind it. Part of that planning is making a checklist of all the things you’ll need for it. A simple list on your phone works wonders. Whenever something pops into your mind, add it to the list. By the time packing day arrives, you will already have a clear guide and far less chance of forgetting something important.

Even if you've made a list, there’s always that item that makes you doubt. Do I take it or not? If you hesitate while packing something, there is a good chance you will never use it. The rule is simple: When in doubt, leave it out. Your suitcase will stay lighter and easier to manage.

The secret to packing light is versatility. Choose tops that work with several pairs of pants to get more outfit combinations without extra clothing. A small wardrobe that works together can stretch surprisingly far.

If your boots or jacket take up a lot of space, wear them on the plane. This simple trick frees up room in your bag and keeps your luggage lighter. Of course, this rule applies to comfortable clothing only; high-heeled boots or a leather jacket may not apply. But that bulky sweatshirt that may also save you on cold nights? That’s the item you want to travel with.

Even the sunniest destinations can surprise you. A compact rain jacket or a small umbrella can save the day if the skies open up. Waterproof or water-resistant shoes are also worth considering. Walking all day in soggy socks is not a highlight of any vacation.

Depending on your destination and the time of the year, take this into account. The weather can change quickly, so instead of packing only summer clothes or one big coat, bring a few items you can layer. A light sweater, a cardigan, and a simple jacket give you options without taking up too much room.

Here’s a controversial one, but it’s a game-changer. It is tempting to pack every inch of space before leaving home. Try to resist that urge. If you’ve travelled enough, you know that when it’s time to pack everything to go home, there never seems to be enough space in the same suitcase you packed a week ago. A little extra room makes it easier to repack later and gives you space for a souvenir or two along the way.

Reusable bags and small zip bags come in handy more often than you might expect. They work well for laundry, wet swimsuits, groceries from a local market, or organizing small items in your suitcase.

If you enjoy reading on vacation, an e-reader like a Kindle is a wonderful travel choice. It weighs almost nothing and can hold dozens of books. That means you can switch between mysteries, memoirs, and travel guides without carrying a stack of paperbacks in your bag.

Airlines and airports each have their own guidelines about luggage size, liquids, and security checks. There’s no point in packing that bottle of face cream if they’ll take it away later. A quick look at the rules (especially the handbag or cabin luggage ones) before leaving home can help you avoid surprises at the airport and start your trip on a smoother note.