Pack your bags like a pro or panic-packing?

Holidays certainly make us dream, but when it comes to getting everything ready, all too often it’s a bit of a nightmare. When it comes to packing our bags, we tend to put things off until the last minute resulting in us panic-packing in a rush.

So take the time to read the sage advice that we can offer so that you can pack for the holidays without getting stressed!

Photo by tookapic via Pixabay

choose your luggage

depending on the journey

Yes indeed, good packing is all about having the right bag to pack! It all depends on the journey, of course. A travel bag is perfectly fine for a trendy city break, but if you’re planning to hop on a flight you’re better off taking a wheeled suitcase. The wheels take the strain so, wherever you go, make sure to check that they’re sturdy enough to handle the weight and withstand any bumps in the road!

depending on the airline

Speaking of weight, it’s important to check what dimensions and size of cabin bag are authorised by your airline. Weigh your bag prior to departure in order to avoid having to empty out some of its contents at check-in…

A rigid suitcase is always a good idea as it’s more resistant and waterproof. Also, it won’t get as dirty as you drag it around the airport.

To help you close your packed suitcase, little pockets and other inner compartments can be a big help! Make sure you select a suitcase that lets you easily pack away as many small items as possible.

make a list

prioritise

Because it would be a shame if your holidays were ruined by the weight of your luggage, make sure to only take what’s useful! In order to help you, make a list that will help you remember all those things that are indispensable (like your I.D) without being weighed down. Don’t forget to consult the list of prohibited items and restricted food products for your flight!

Photo by StockSnap via Pixabay

your washbag

Among the indispensable items in your washbag, don’t forget your toothbrush and some toothpaste, of course, as well as a comb or hairbrush, an aerosol-free deodorant, soap, shampoo and perhaps some sun cream, insect repellent and earplugs. Remember also to pack any medication you might need!

liquid items

If you’re thinking of taking any liquids, 100ml bottles are essential because only authorised containers are allowed in your hand luggage. All of this must be stored in a transparent pouch and cannot exceed 1L in total. There are lots of terms and conditions, so limit your liquid items as much as you can, especially for short breaks.

your wardrobe

When it comes to clothes, a general rule is less is more, because you can wear items more than once and you often only need one highlight for every day in order to change your look and feel comfortable. You should also plan to take one warm item, such as a jumper or jacket, one pair of pyjamas and, of course, underwear. A small backpack is also useful, but the thing you really have to remember is shoes! Take a variety of different types (walking, smart…) depending on what you’re doing so you can avoid the dreaded blisters…

If they’re not supplied, remember to take bath towels. Nowadays it’s possible to find very thin towels that don’t take up too much space. And remember to take a swimming costume if appropriate!

handy accessories

Other accessories can be very useful: camera, speakers, tablet…Along with a charger of course!  Spare bags can also be useful if you want to take home souvenirs, keep clean and dirty clothing separate or if you want to take packing to another level and really organise the items in your luggage.

Once you’ve decided what to take and these items are ready to be packed away in your luggage, take a photo of them and of your luggage. This one simple thing can make your life much easier if you lose your bags or encounter any problems.

optimise your packing

Now it’s your turn to play. Are you going to have to ditch something in order to close your bags? If you follow our advice, you may not have to sit on your suitcase just to close it…

Photo libre de droits

rolling up your clothes

The top tip for packing clothes is to fold items in two and then roll them: you save space and avoid creases. You can also wrap fragile objects in clothing to protect them.

don't leave any empty space

Use linen bags or plastic bags to store shoes so they don’t dirty your clothes, whilst food bags are useful for storing toiletries, underwear, cables, chargers, make-up and other accessories. Also, make use of every empty space: pack socks or other small items inside your shoes.

Bonus: You can also save more space by using vacuum packed bags, as long as you use the type of bags that empty without the need for a vacuum cleaner just in case you don’t have one to hand at your destination.

think about your arrival

When you’re packing your bags, think about prioritising your things: place anything you might need straight away at the top of your bag so that you don’t have to empty out all its contents in order to find one specific item…

Also, so that your luggage is not too heavy, wear bulky items of clothing during your journey: coats, jackets…

just in case

Valuable items should be carried in your handbag, limiting the risk of losing them if your luggage goes missing. Also, remember to take a toothbrush in your hand luggage, a small tube of toothpaste and something to change into, because you never know…

Now you know how to pack your bags like a pro so packing needn’t be a nightmare ever again!