How to Pack a Suitcase for Vacation?
• Posted July 10 • 2024.
Thinking About Clothes
Check the Weather
It may seem obvious, but it's important to mention: before packing, check the weather forecast for your destination. Make sure to look at the forecast for the days you will be there, not just the current weather, so you can pack appropriately.
Opt for Versatile Outfits
Choose clothes that are not only easy to mix and match but also suitable for various occasions. For example, pick items that you can wear both during the day and at night, and that adapt to different activities. A neutral-colored cotton shirt can be perfect for sightseeing during the day and, when paired with pants or a skirt, can work for a dinner at night. Don’t forget your jeans and basic-colored pants, as they are great options simply because they go with almost everything.
Limit the Number of Shoes
There’s no need to pack many shoes that will take up too much space in your suitcase. Bring only two or three pairs that are comfortable and versatile, and you’ll be more than covered.
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Suitcase Organization
Use Packing Cubes
You can use packing cubes, which help keep your suitcase organized and maximize space. These small zippered bags come in various sizes and help compartmentalize your belongings, making it easier to find what you need without having to rummage through and mess up your entire suitcase. An example of their usefulness is to separate and organize accessories and beauty products from the rest of your belongings.
Roll Your Clothes, Don't Fold Them
A great idea is to roll your clothes instead of folding them because this not only saves space and reduces wrinkles, but also allows you to pack more items. However, as we will see later, this can be improved by using vacuum bags.
Place Heavy Items at the Bottom
This is important but not everyone does it, simply because they don't know about it. Place heavy items, such as shoes and books, at the bottom of the suitcase to maintain balance.
Use Vacuum Bags
Vacuum bags or travel compression bags allow you to compress your clothes and save space in your suitcase. They work simply: you put your items in and remove all the air, resulting in a significant space saving. Here are some tips for using them effectively:
Not for All Clothes
Choose clothes that don't wrinkle easily, such as t-shirts, sweaters, and underwear, to put in the vacuum bags.
Use a Hand Pump or a Vacuum Cleaner
Depending on the type of vacuum bag, use a hand pump or a vacuum cleaner to remove the air and compress the clothes. Nowadays, there are new bags where a pump is no longer needed; by using a zipper, you can expel the air and achieve a similar result.
Organize by Type of Clothing
You can organize the vacuum bags by type of clothing, for example, one for pants, another for skirts, etc. This will help keep your suitcase organized.
Be Careful with Weight Limits
While vacuum bags save space, they might encourage you to pack more items, which can make your suitcase heavier. Check this before you leave and make sure not to exceed the weight limits allowed by the airline. We all know they love charging extra dollars for anything.
Reuse the Bags During the Trip
You can bring some extra bags for any clothing purchases or additional souvenirs during the trip. Of course, reuse the ones you already used for the return trip.
Hygiene Items and Liquids
Use Travel Bottles
Liquids can be a headache at some airports and with certain airlines. It’s best to transfer your hygiene products into travel-sized bottles to save space and comply with airline and authority regulations.
Liquid Items Bag
In addition to the above, place all liquids in a sealed plastic bag to prevent spills.
Technology and Accessories
Chargers and Adapters
Please don't forget to pack the chargers for your devices and, if necessary, a power adapter, especially if you’re traveling abroad. You have no idea the hassle it is to arrive in another country without chargers or power adapters and try to find one in the middle of the night at the airport. I do, which is why I'm warning you.
Important Documents
Make sure to reserve a section of your personal bag specifically for your travel documents, such as passports and tickets, in an accessible and secure place close to you. This applies to a fanny pack or a small bag; don’t put them in the checked luggage. Imagine if the airline loses it—what would you do without these documents?
Essential Items for the Flight
Entertainment
Especially if your flight is long, you always need something to entertain yourself. I mean, I know many airlines offer a menu of movies and series to watch on the screen, but you can also bring a book, a tablet, and headphones to keep yourself entertained during the flight. Whether you're listening to music, playing video games, or watching a movie you already have on your devices, these items should go in your personal bag so you have them handy during the flight.
Earplugs and Sleep Mask
I know that most airlines offer these for long flights, but what if your flight is just two or three hours and you want to sleep? It's better to pack these items and immerse yourself in a delightful nap without anyone bothering you.
Safety and Protection
Lock Your Suitcase with a Padlock
Make sure to lock your suitcase with a padlock for added security. It's even better with a combination lock. Just don't forget the combination, as that can be a big hassle. Another option is to wrap your suitcase in plastic to protect it entirely.
Label Your Suitcase
Just in case, it's a good idea to label your suitcase with your contact information in case it gets lost.
In conclusion, packing a suitcase is a relatively simple matter, especially when using the guide we wrote above and, most importantly, travel vacuum bags. Believe me, they will make your suitcase lighter and more spacious; they are truly useful. If you don't want to use them, it's still very easy to organize everything with the tips provided here. So, pack your suitcase and embark on a new adventure!
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Tastes of La Paz.