Tips For Packing Carry On Luggage
Packing carry on luggage efficiently can be both time and money-saving. Airlines charge fees for extra checked suitcases and for suitcases that exceed posted weight limits. Therefore, lightening the load in checked baggage makes good financial sense.
First, pack clothing. Begin with sturdy items like underwear and socks. Roll them and pack them in the bottom of the suitcase. Use the space near the handle tubing and stuff them in these crevices. Next, carefully fold items that should be ironed and lay them on top of the previously packed items. Then, take clothing that can be fluffed in the dryer at a later time and roll it tightly. Start by folding the items in half and then rolling them up from the bottom. Set rolled clothing aside.
Next, pack shoes. Take advantage of the space inside shoes to store small items. Pack the shoes on top of the folded clothes, and pack them back to back. The space between high heels and the sole of the shoe can be used to secure fragile items. If needed, wrap shoes in durable clothing or use shoe bags. Stuff leather shoes with socks so that they will keep their shape.
Third, minimize toiletries. Regulations permit up to 3.4 ounces of each liquid item in a bag. They also require that toiletries be secured inside plastic zip bags. For this reason, passengers should buy travel-sized tubes and bottles of most toiletries. For example, with shampoo, a passenger could buy a travel-sized item, or the passenger could buy a small empty bottle and pour shampoo into it.
Bring samples of items like perfume to avoid spillage. Also, buy as many combination products as possible. For instance, use a combined shampoo and conditioner for the duration of the trip. Also, use double-duty makeup items. For instance, bring a lipstick that can double as a blush. Or, wear a tinted moisturizer in place of foundation. Do not bring a hair dryer if the hotel has one or if it can be borrowed at the destination. Set toiletries aside with the rolled clothing.
Fourth, pack work-related electronics and papers. Place laptops, cell phones, iPods, and folders in pouches so they will be protected. Keep them vertical in the suitcase so they can be easily accessed. In the bag’s outer pockets, pack chargers, cords, and headphones. When work items are packed, take rolled clothes and bagged toiletries. Surround the work items but don’t cover them. Keep them showing so they can be accessed easily.
Finally, wear or carry bulky items. These can include coats, sweaters, and hiking boots. If carrying a handbag, carry a cloth one that can be stuffed inside the suitcase if needed. Always place bulky items under the seat on the airplane. Do not crowd overhead bins.
Packing carry-on luggage efficiently can lighten the load inside checked baggage. Passengers may even find that they can avoid checking bags. Follow a simple strategy. Pack items in the right order, and pack them the right way. Take as few toiletries as possible and consolidate them into smaller containers. Finally, wear or carry bulky items. With a little preparation, packing a carry-on can be easy to handle.
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