Packing for travel. A chore but essential and someone has to do it!
Packing can make or break a vacation. This may seem a little dramatic, but as Benjamin Franklin once said, “If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.” Taking the time to pack your bags properly for travel can save you time and tears during what should be a happy and fun time.
Packing for a long weekend break using only hand luggage can be even more difficult. With limited space, you need to use every nook and cranny while not leaving yourself short. So here are my packing tips!
Stay organized and carry on
If, like me, you just throw things in your bag, you’re doing it wrong. A bag is an essential travel item, but not if you can’t find anything in it without dumping everything on the nearest bench. Have you ever been in the position where you can’t find your hotel room key? Have you ever needed to produce your passport to prove your identity? Can’t find your tourist itinerary, the one you’ve been working on for the last month? You’ve probably experienced all three at some point. And even all three on one holiday if you’re unlucky enough!
I recommend buying a travel document folder or wallet to keep your travel bits and bobs organised. I love my Maxwell Scott travel wallet which is super slim and stylish. It is made of genuine leather so it is durable and will last more than just a handful of trips.
You may be interested in… The most beautiful personalized notebook
Buy cheap, buy twice
And that brings me nicely to my second point. I made the mistake of buying cheap travel bags and luggage time and time again. But like most things, if you buy cheap you buy twice. I know the frustration of zippers, handles and wheels falling apart. Just because you’re careful with your case, doesn’t mean the airport baggage handler will give it the same TLC as you do. Do you really want to spend your time and money on vacation buying another bag?
Again, a leather travel bag is worth paying the premium for. Think of it as an investment as it will save you in the long run from having to pay for a new travel bag every time you go on holiday. This Birkin style leather travel bag from Maxwell Scott it is hand luggage sized and comes with a 25 year guarantee.
Vacuum bags
Can’t decide what or how many clothes to get? Yup, I’ve experienced that feeling of letting myself down and having to wash clothes in the hotel bathroom basin – not ideal. I always make the mistake of only taking hand luggage, I think that will be enough but it usually means it’s bursting at the seams as soon as I get into it as much as I can. Then I found out about vacuum storage bags for travel.
Simply put all your things in the clear plastic bag and let the vacuum do its thing, sucking out all the air and leaving you with a compressed pile of clothes. If you don’t want to ask the hotel if you can use their vacuum, sitting on the bag and letting the air out has a similar effect – more room for tacky souvenirs!
Do not pack toiletries
By no means am I suggesting you don’t use toiletries on your vacation! Think of the other passengers on the journey back home! Of course, you can buy toiletries as you travel but if you are looking to save space, buy them at your destination. It also means you don’t have to worry about liquid restrictions at airport security.
Wear it on the plane
Not sure what the weather will bring. You must be ready for all eventualities. Not great when you are limited for space. If you have thicker clothing such as knitwear or a heavy coat, wear it or carry it on the plane. And if it’s a coat, be sure to fill the pockets! However, this A travel jacket may be taking things a little too far!
Holiday reading
While I am a huge advocate of physical books, I have the complete opposite opinion when it comes to my travel hat. Buying an e-book reader for travel means you can have many books to choose from. Or save even more space by uploading your books to your mobile.
fill your boots (shoes)
One last little tip but something you can forget. If you are packing a pair of shoes, you can fill them with socks or a tie. You may want to wrap in plastic if you have smelly feet!
What are your tips for packing for a long weekend away? Tell me in the comments section below!