Packing efficiently with only hand luggage is certainly a skill. But once you can do it, it’ll make future trips so much easier, and cheaper. Flying with hand luggage only means cheaper flight prices, and a much easier and quicker time at the airport. Here are some practical tips for packing which should make sure you have everything you need for a smooth trip.
1. Make sure your bag is the right size for the airline you are flying with. Check their official website and make sure your case is suitable.
2. Make a list of essentials. Don’t leave it to the last minute as that’s when you’re likely to forget something.
3. Use packing cubes or roll up your clothes. You can use the cubes to separate underwear, swimwear and any accessories you may be bringing. Rolling your clothes with prevent creases.
4. Wear the heaviest clothes on travel day. Wear a warm top that you can also wear if the evenings are cooler while you are away.
5. Wear comfortable shoes that you can keep on most of the time, and perhaps a light weight smarter pair to wear if you are going out in the evenings, you can fill these with socks or your accessories in the suitcase.
6. Books are heavy, so bring your kindle or buy a book while you are away.
7. Put your shampoo, make up etc into small travel bottles and remember you could also buy things while you are there.
8. Bring a fanny pack/bum bag to keep your passport, phone and bank card in. You can tuck it under your clothes while exploring to keep them safe, and should also (I always have) be able to wear it in the airport to keep them accessible when you need them.
9. Bring versatile lightweight clothes that you can mix and match and dress up or down.
10. Smaller items can be shoved in corners and gaps, you’d be surprised how much you can get in.
Please let me know if this helps you perfect your packing, and if you have any extra tips.
