You don’t have to feel like you’re compromising with just carry-on luggage.
Follow these simple tricks and you’ll have everything packed and whizzing through airport security in no time.
What voodoo is this? we hear you cry … read on and we’ll explain.
Choose the right luggage
Ideally, you would travel with a carry-on. It permits speedier boarding and makes it simple to carry all through your trip. Whether you’re off on a romantic weekend or an international adventure, travelling light is less stressful.
Small rigid shell suitcases with front compartments are ideal. These types of shell cases are usually lightweight and provide decent waterproof protection. The front compartment is great for laptops, liquids, tech or travel docs. The perfect solution to avoid the embarrassment of opening the entire suitcase at security for the usual rummage around.
If your baggage allowance allows, take a small backpack too. Make sure it folds into a small packable size when not in use as they’re great to use as a day pack during your trip.
Be square
Packing cubes can help you to optimise the space in your case. Not only are they ideal for organisation but if you opt for compression cubes, they’ll allow you to fit a few more things into your bag too. Compression packing cubes have an added zip, which helps fit your clothes in super tight and squeezes out any extra air. Use one for bulky items, one for underwear, one for shoes and one for dirty laundry. Or pack different outfits in individual cubes for each day if you’re a real “organiser”.
Keep it light & versatile
Here’s the tricky part: choosing the right clothes for the trip. Having to consider different climates, different activities, comfort AND style is no easy task. Try to consider multi-functional items and fabrics. For example, a good pair of jeans for daily wear but you can also dress up with a nice top. Classic mix-and-match tops and T-shirts that are comfortable and versatile. Think about layering tops with moisture-wicking fabrics for the cold instead of bulky sweaters. Another good tip is to keep your clothing items in a similar colour palette to make it easier to mix and match. Being able to wash your clothing by hand or throw it into a machine for a quick wash is also a great idea, especially if you’re away for longer periods.
Footwear can be the make or break of the packing stage. Which shoes? How many? Your mantra should be classic and neutral. Footwear should go with all chosen outfits and suit the climate and conditions.
5,4,3,2,1
Have you heard of the 5,4,3,2,1 packing method? It’s a great guide to adhere to when you need to keep your packing to a minimum. For example, five tops, four bottoms, three dresses, three pairs of shoes, two swimsuits, two bags, one watch, one hat and one pair of sunglasses. Or five tops, four bottoms, three accessories, two shoes, and one swimsuit. Or men may pack five shirts/T-shirts, four pairs of trousers, three accessories (hat, belt and sunglasses), two pairs of shoes and one pair of swimming trunks.
The formula is adjustable depending on your destination and requirements. If you were travelling somewhere cold, you’d swap out swimwear for a waterproof jacket. What you’d pack for a business trip and a backpacking trip would of course differ but the 5,4,3,2,1 is a useful guide to becoming a more efficient carry-on traveller.
Ditch the liquids
Okay, there’s no need to ditch ALL the liquids, but if you’re intent on travelling light, you’re restricted to 10 x 100ml. But if you prefer to whizz through airport security, swap out several liquids for solid, multi-purpose products. Sunscreen sticks, solid shampoo and conditioner combination bars, an old-fashioned bar of soap and solid deodorant sticks are great alternatives. Swap out your liquid foundation for a foundation stick. Solid perfume instead of fancy heavy glass bottles. Pack all your solid body care items into a neat little wash bag and hey-presto, no need to whip them out in front of security.
Reduce your tech
Your luggage can also increase with too much tech. The obvious culprit is your laptop. Don’t bother taking it unless it is a work trip; often your mobile or tablet can do the job. Leave your Kindle or media device at home, and store music, movies and e-books on your phone. If you’re a keen photographer your mobile may not be an option. But you can still reduce the weight by taking one large lens, only the necessary cables and leaving the tripod behind. Otherwise, bite the bullet and use your mobile phone for your travel photography.
A few extras to consider
Want to know about a few small items that make a big difference? How about attaching a carabiner clip to your bag so you can attach things like coats, water bottles or shoes? A great way to keep your hands free and have a bit of extra space. An inflatable travel pillow for those long flights, delays or bus rides. Ear plugs and an eye mask for a better sleep on the go. A quick-drying travel towel if you’re heading for a beach holiday.
Don’t overpack
It can be easy to over pack, especially if you’re heading off on a long trip. But there’s no need to pack more and more clothes into your case. Make it your mantra: “wash, rinse, wear and repeat”.
A good tip to avoid excess baggage fees is to invest in inexpensive digital luggage scales. Pop your case on them before you head to the airport to gauge if your case is over the limit. This will give you the chance to re-shuffle the packing before being slapped with that unwanted extra charge.
No need to thank us, a small gift (we never say no to sweets or cheap red wine) on your return will be enough.
Hate packing? These five tips will transform your luggage game
