Have you ever fallen victim to an airline who lost your luggage? How about paying an extra fee just to check your luggage? One of the questions I get asked most frequently is how I manage to pack for every trip using only a carry on suitcase and a purse or backpack. It’s actually easier to do than you might think!

Every traveler, no matter how experienced, uses a packing list of some kind (even if it is only a mental checklist). Lucky for us there is an app for just about everything including a packing assistant. I chose the Packr app based on over 3,000 customer reviews and the fact that it builds a personalized packing list based on your destination, weather and planned activities. The app even has a “family” feature that helps you pack for the entire family!

Now let’s talk about clothing selection. Layers are your friend. They will help you keep warm or cool and will transition through different climates on a multiple destination trip. I start by picking layers in solid or neutral tones that can be mixed and matched to make multiple outfits. I lay out everything I want to take and then cut it down by at least one third. To help reduce the feeling of not having enough, I always budget spending money to buy clothing from my destination. It makes for a great souvenir that you can actually use when you return home. Traveling on a budget is still no reason to over-pack. These days you can buy travel sized anything including single use packs of laundry soap. This will allow you to wash smaller items such as t-shirts, socks or underwear right in your hotel room. If choosing this option try to pack light weight items that will dry more quickly and help you avoid transporting wet laundry.

Once you’ve made your selections, there are several methods you can use to pack your clothing such as rolling, folding, bundling, stuffing, packing cubes and many more. Personally, I used to be a “roller” because it saves space and reduces wrinkles. But then, I was introduced to packing cubes and my suitcase was forever changed! Packing cubes can be used to help save space and keep your suitcase extremely organized. Here are a few things to consider when selecting the perfect packing cube. ALWAYS read the customer reviews. They will give you the truth no matter if it’s good or bad. Some websites even have a section where you can ask questions to make sure you have all the info you need to make the right selection. Also, make sure you are purchasing COMPRESSION packing cubes. This will help you save the maximum amount of space in your suitcase. The cubes pictured here are by Gonex and were purchased through Amazon. I LOVE THESE CUBES!!! I was able to fit 4 thick sweaters into a large cube and 7 tank tops into a small cube.

Lastly, I always pack a folding travel duffle/tote bag. They fold up small and allow me to have that extra space if needed. And, when you buy souvenirs like I do, it’s ALWAYS needed!

Well, that about sums up my suitcase. Hope this answers some of your questions and helps you to become more of a savvy packer. Stay tuned…to the next blog where I will focus on tips, tricks and essentials for packing your personal carry-on.

Happy Wandering

Lizzy

Packing like a pro…