Make a packing list
Before starting to pack, create a list of everything you need to bring. This will ensure that you don’t forget anything essential and will also help you avoid overpacking. Write down the clothes, shoes, toiletries, and electronics you need, as well as any documents or money you’ll require. Once you have a list, you can begin to organize and prioritize your items.
Roll your clothes
Rather than folding your clothes, try rolling them tightly. This not only saves space but also helps prevent wrinkles. Roll clothes together that are going to be worn together, like a shirt and a pair of shorts. This way, you won’t have to dig through your luggage to find them.
Use packing cubes
Packing cubes are a great way to stay organized and save space. These small, lightweight bags help compress your clothes and keep them in separate compartments. You can use different-colored cubes for different types of clothing, like one for tops and one for bottoms. Additionally, if you need to take something out of your luggage, you won’t have to unpack everything: just remove the cube with the item you need.
Wear your bulkiest items
If you’re packing bulky items like a winter coat or boots, wear them on the plane instead of packing them. This will free up space in your luggage and also keep you warm and comfortable during the flight. Alternatively, you could try wearing layers instead of packing heavy clothing.
Consider the liquid restrictions
If you’re only taking carry-on luggage, you’ll need to adhere to the TSA’s liquid restrictions. Each passenger is allowed to bring a quart-sized bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes in their carry-on. Each container must be 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less. To save space and reduce the risk of spills, transfer your liquids to travel-sized bottles or buy them once you arrive at your destination.
