PAPERmaking! g! FROM THE PUBLISHERS OF PAPER TECHNOLOGY ® Volume 10, Number 1, 2024
Make a packing list Taking the time to create a packing list (this is different than an organized traveler’s checklist) a week or two before your trip is one of the best packing tips because it makes certain you don’t forget anything and saves you time later on. Starting earl y ensures you’ll be able to purchase things you still need or place an Amazon order without last - minute stress. Begin by creating your main categories (clothing, toiletries, charging accessories, documents, etc.). Under each category, list the items you want to bring — and get specific. How many times can you wear a specific top? Which days will you actually be at the beach and need swimwear? Do you anticipate needing sneakers? If you consider yourself an overpacker (or don’t want to incur hefty baggage fees), packing lists help you pack lighter—you’ve already done the work to build your vacation wardrobe and won’t be tempted to add another outfit or two. Plus, you can refer to it when you go home so you don’t leave anything in the hotel room or Airbnb. Don’t pack everything in your checked bag As tempting as it can be to pack all your belongings in a checked bag and not think about it again until it comes around the carousel, keep in mind that lost luggage happens to even the most experienced travelers. Checking luggage is convenient and gives you the freedom to pack more, but to be on the safe side, keep medications, jewelry and other valuables with you in a carry-on, travel backpack or handbag. Take the right size suitcase Once you have a complete packing list, you’ll know whether you need a carry -on, a checked bag or both, and some of the best luggage brands offer a variety of sizes, styles and weights. Frequent travelers typically recommend taking a carry-on whenever possi ble, whether you’re on a weekend getaway, mini vacation or something slightly longer. Doing so not only helps you avoid airline baggage fees (most airlines allow at least one free carry-on bag, but some budget airlines do not), it also makes for quicker airport departures (no waiting at baggage claim) and limits any restrictions you might have moving around with heavier, larger luggage. Underseat luggage that fits beneath the seat in front of you can be a super convenient and surprisingly roomy option. So too can rolling carry-ons that fit in overhead bins. (Just don’t close the bins when you’re done; it’s one of the airplane travel mistakes many people make.) Decide on a color palette Choosing a color palette for your travel wardrobe might sound like an unnecessary step, but it will make packing and getting dressed so much easier. Similar to creating a capsule wardrobe (which includes a minimum number of wardrobe staples that coordinate for maximum efficiency), sticking to coordinating colors (and versatile capsule- approved items) allows you to mix and match the pieces you bring, creating more outfits, saving space and limiting endless clothing decisions. Opt for travel-friendly fabrics Because you don’t want to have to iron or steam your clothes when you get to your destination (and you definitely don’t want to make room for the travel -size devices), make sure you pack clothing items that will travel well — that means no linens or cotton twills that wrinkle easily. Wrinkle-resistant knits and stretchy fabrics are great choices. Wondering what to wear on a plane? Layer and wear your bulkiest items, when possible. Choose travel-ready, comfortable fabrics. If you’re taking a long trip, look for fabrics that are odor -resistant and quick drying as well so you can wear them more than once and rinse them out in your hotel sink. Lay everything out It’s much easier to pack if you lay everything out before you begin rather than going back and forth to your closet. Refer to your packing list and place each item in front of you. This way, you can see what you might be missing, as well as what needs to go into your suitcase in the order that most makes sense. Laying everything out also ensures you’re not packing items that will get your checked luggage flagged by TSA. You can decide if you want to use packing cubes, which many travelers swear by to organize and save space. Know when to roll, when to fold Folding clothes that could be rolled is one of the most common packing mistakes travelers make. Tightly roll items such as T-shirts, pajamas, casual pants and dresses to optimize suitcase space and avoid creasing. Roll heavy items (such as jeans) first and place at the bottom. Follow with thinner rolled items on top of those to make it easier to force your suitcase closed. If you’re packing bulky or stiff items, such as sweaters or starched shirts, fold these (try using a garment folder) and place them on top of any rolled clothing the length of your suitcase. If you’re using packing cubes, they should be packed the same way as suitcases: Roll whatever you can and place folded items on top.
Article 10 – Packing a Suitcase
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