I have packed and unpacked many times. Packing for a big trip involves cunning, lateral thinking, flexibility and good jumping ability when you’re trying to get the damn suitcase closed.
Things to consider when packing:
- Will this be too heavy for me to carry? If the answer is yes, pull it all out and start again. You will need to be able to carry it.
- Is it securely locked? Even backpacks can take locks, or some airports (eg. in South America) offer a plastic seal service to make sure nobody tampers with your stuff.
- Will it hold? If you’ve bought a cheapie suitcase from Thailand make sure it won’t fall open by taping it up. Many luggage shops sell straps.
- What season/weather am I packing for? If you’re heading somewhere tropical, ditch the fluffy boots.
- Roll tightly. You will be able to fit much more in if you roll clothes up.
- Seal toiletries. Leaking shampoos are to be avoided.
- What will I be able to buy once there? Take into account that while traveling you are likely to shop. Leave room for additional items.
- What am I not allowed to pack? Most airlines have restrictions. Check their website to make sure you won’t have to chuck out anything at the airport.
- Have I packed my own luggage? Don’t let random people pack your packs and don’t offer to transport anything unless you know the person very, very well.
- Does it look like everyone else’s luggage? If the answer is yes, cover it in ribbons, stickers, anything to make it clearly yours.
- Do I really want to carry this? Look at each item long and hard, and be ruthless. Do you really want to carry the Lord of the Rings trilogy (books) around the world with you? Your pet rock?
July 22nd, 2007 at 12:07 am
…and if you have to pack valuable items in your main luggage, try to pack them towards the centre, so that if someone slashes your bag, they’ll only see dirty clothes. Better still, keep them in your hand luggage.
July 22nd, 2007 at 6:04 am
Great advice. It never hurts to be really ruthless with your packing – especially for everyday items such as clothes etc. One major pitfall is the packing for every eventuality syndrome – y’know the ‘but what if…’ questions that we all ask ourselves. If its a ‘maybe I’ll need this’ – then don’t take it. Its always good to remember that if it is really needed then other people where you are going will need it too, in which case it will be on sale (everyone wants to turn a coin or two). So only take what you KNOW you will need. That comes from the man who always takes a laptop, a party pack of Rizzlas, and a full compliment of fishing gear away with him….doh!
Looking forward to more of the tips
July 22nd, 2007 at 7:55 am
Paul: God point. And good to put jewelry in an innocuous bag or case.
Nath: Really, you always take a laptop? Even on holiday?
January 15th, 2010 at 10:54 am
These were really helpful in packing for my trip that I’m departing on tomorrow to Cancun. Thanks!
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