Successful Packing For Your Trip

Successful packing begins with a plan! Write down the necessities so nothing is forgotton. Because of the airline weight restrictions, you'll want to limit the number of shoes (and handbags) you take along. After all, shoes will usually weigh more than clothing! I pack on thin wire hangers usually that you get from the cleaners. Everything that is worn together goes on the hanger. Place a shirt, slacks, jacket, scarf, etc. on the hanger. That way nothing is left behind. Plus you won't have to worry about having enough hangers in the hotel. If you stay with one or two color schemes, you'll have a better chance of limiting the number of shoes. Be sure the clothing is clean and pressed before it's packed. Pack your underwear, pajamas, socks, and sweaters in packing cubes. The cubes will go directly into the hotel drawers from your luggage. Pack cosmetics, lotions, and vitamins in the plastic lined packing cubes. Before placing bottles and jars in the luggage be sure to ziplock bag them or wrap them in saran wrap. You need the double wrapping to prevent spills. Vitamins, and a small amount of asperin, etc., should be packed in one of the smaller packing cubes. If you are traveling out of the country, know local customs so the clothing you pack is not inappropriate. You'll want to check on the electrical needs when traveling out of the country too. Bring along a converter and the correct adapter plug(s). Pack necessities in your carry on luggage. You'll want to pack valuables, jewelry, cameras, a miniumum amount of toiletries (in the 3-1-1 bag,) medications, reading material and snacks in the carry on. Use lightweight luggage and don't bring along a case that is too large for the trip. Most of the older pieces of luggage were heavier than the newer lighter in weight luggage. The 22" size should be enough for a 2 - 3 day trip. Traveling from 3 - 6 days and a 24" size should work. Traveling for a week to two weeks, and you'll probably want a 26" size. Longer trips will require the 29" size. Remember most of the airlines now charge for oversized luggage too. Stay within the 62" linear inch size by measuring length, width and depth if you don't want to pay extra. Luckily, many luggage brands are on SALE now, so if you don't have the right size or a lightweight bag, it's the perfect time to purchase one. With a little prior planning, your packing will go easily and smoothly!