Okay, so you’ve got your plane ticket, your passport, and a spark of excitement for your upcoming adventure abroad. But before you take off to explore new lands and make unforgettable memories, there’s one task that can either be a breeze or a headache… packing your suitcase. I’ll give you some handy tips and a free checklist in this blog, so you’ll be packing like a pro in no time, leaving plenty of space for souvenirs and spontaneous finds along the journey.
1. Make a Packing List:
First things first, jot down a list of essentials. Start with the must-haves like clothes, toiletries, travel documents, and any specific items you’ll need for your destination’s climate or activities. Having a list ensures you won’t forget anything crucial and helps you avoid overpacking unnecessary items. I have created a checklist with some of the main items you’ll need:
2. Choose the Right Suitcase:
Opt for a suitcase that’s lightweight, durable, and suits your travel needs. Consider the size restrictions of airlines to avoid excess baggage fees. If you’re going on a longer trip or plan to bring back lots of goodies, an expandable suitcase might be a wise choice. Bonus tip, invest in a little travel scale if you’re planning to catch flights within your trip. This really did save me hundreds of dollars when going from country to country in Europe!
3. Roll, Don’t Fold:
Say goodbye to bulky, creased clothes! Rolling your clothes not only saves space but also reduces wrinkles. Plus, it allows for better organisation and visibility inside your suitcase. Pro tip: Use packing cubes to further compartmentalise and keep things tidy.
4. Pack Versatile Clothing:
Pack clothing items that can be mixed and matched to create multiple outfits. Choose versatile pieces that can transition from day to night, and consider the weather forecast of your destination to pack accordingly. And please be real with yourself – you don’t need 15 pairs of underwear for a 1 week holiday. Washing machines exist! And yes, I am very guilty of this (EMOJI)
5. Utilise Empty Spaces:
Don’t let any nook or cranny go to waste! Utilize the space inside your shoes by stuffing them with socks or small items. Tuck underwear and accessories into gaps between larger items to maximise space.
6. Minimise Toiletries:
Ditch the full-size bottles and opt for travel-sized toiletries or invest in refillable containers. Remember, most accommodations provide basic toiletries, so you might not need to bring everything from home. Depending on where you’re going, I’m 99% sure you’ll be able to find a convenience store if you do happen to run out of your shampoo. #nostress
7. Pack Smart Electronics:
Keep your gadgets safe and organised by storing them in a dedicated tech pouch or using protective cases. To save space, consider bringing multi-purpose devices like a smartphone with a good camera instead of bulky cameras. An international travel adapter is also a really smart purchase, especially if you’re heading off on the trip of a lifetime and visiting multiple countries.
8. Leave Room for Souvenirs:
It’s tempting to fill every inch of your suitcase, but leaving some space for souvenirs and mementos is essential. You don’t want to be scrambling to make room for that cute trinket you found at a local market.
9. Wear Bulky Items on the Plane:
If you’re bringing bulky items like a winter coat or boots, wear them on the plane to free up space in your suitcase. From personal experience, there is no embarrassment in wearing 3 shirts, a puffer jacket, and a regular jacket at the airport on a 30°C day (EMOJI)
10. Don’t Forget the Essentials:
Lastly, ensure you have all your important documents (passport, visas, travel insurance), medications, and any other essentials in your carry-on bag. It’s always a good idea to have these items easily accessible, but don’t forget to scan copies of everything and leave them in a folder at the bottom of your suitcase. There’s no such thing as being overprepared in my books!
And there you have it, friends! Packing your suitcase efficiently is the key to stress-free travel adventures. With these tips, you’ll be ready to take off with ease, leaving behind the hassle of overpacking and bulky luggage. So, go ahead, embrace the wanderlust, and bon voyage!
Au revoir, Ahoj, Até já!
Priya x
Enhanced Travels 
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