Packing Hacks to Help Save Space
The travel industry is more competitive than ever and airlines are cutting costs to stay ahead of the game. Things like free movie headphones, edible airline meals and ample luggage allowances have gone the way of the dodo and it’s now up to you, the intrepid travel adventurer, to make it work.
Never fear, I can help you find all the travel hacks you need to pack your luggage like a champ:
Become a Luggage Guru
Your suitcase is your foundation for packing right. Airlines have different rules for the size and weight of your luggage and knowing the specifics will save you money. If you show up at the airport with oversized bags, you’ll be paying an oversized bill.
Height and width are just as important as weight and sometimes the airline’s measurement maximums aren’t always clear. Google your specific airline’s luggage allowance and watch this video to learn how to measure your bags at home. You can also buy a luggage scale to ensure that you are under the weight limit before heading to the airport. They are cheap and easy to find at places like Walmart and Home Depot.
Pack with Travel Space Saver Bags
If you're travelling somewhere that requires bulkier clothes, travel space saver bags like these ones from Amazon, might be the thing for you. They can reduce puffier pieces like sweaters, coats and bedding by up to 75% and make room for all the extra things you need to pack.
Roll all your belongings in the bag, compress all the air out and close the valve. Make sure you buy the bags that can seal without using a vacuum. You won’t always have access to one when you pack up again for your return trip home.
The Little Things Add Up
When packing little things, there are some tricks for saving space and staying organized. Here are a few of my favourites:
- You can keep jewellery from tangling together by laying them on a sheet of cling film and folding it over to wrap your pieces in plastic. It will keep things neat and tidy for your night on the town.
- Protect small stud earrings by pinning them together through a button. You’ll always have the matching pair and they’ll be easy to find in your bag.
- Use shower caps to cover the bottoms of your dirty shoes so your clothes aren’t worse for wear.
- Fold your blazer inside out to prevent it from wrinkling while en route.
- Use a big paper clip to protect the top of your razor so it stays sharp for your next shave
Plan Ahead to Power Up
Anything can happen when you’re traveling and it pays to be prepared. Most of us like to take our gadgets along when we travel and there’s nothing worse than losing power at the wrong time.
There are plenty of options for plugging in your electronics: portable batteries for on-the-go charging, a converter/plugin for international outlets, and an extra-long power bar for airport lounge emergencies. Put these in your carry on so you always have access when you need them.
Before you pack your bags and head off on your next vacation don't forget to buy travel insurance. This can help protect you in case of any unforeseen events happen such as your bags being lost or delayed.