What’s the Best Way to Pack a Suitcase?

Posted by Peter Brady on Thu 17th August 2006 at 07:00 AM, Filed in Travel Tips

In light of all the recent turmoil at UK airports I thought it might be useful to impart some tips on the best way to pack a suitcase. In particular, now that it looks like carrying any form of liquid or gel in hand luggage is to become a permanent no no. Here are some quick and easy tips that just might save you a lot of hassle - and yes most of the tips are common sense!

1. Always, always, always clearly mark your destination address and name when flying out and then your home address and name when flying home.

2. Tie a distinctive piece of material on the handle of your case so that it can be easily distinguishable from all the other hundreds of Samsonites on the carousel.

3. Put all liquids and gels into plastic bags and seal them up making sure you drain most of the air beforehand, otherwise they will pop in flight.

4. If you only have that extra large bottle of conditioner why not pour only what you need into a smaller bottle to save space.

5. Making a list of items to include in your case can reduce the possibility of leaving something behind and may come in handy in making any insurance claims should your case be lost.

6. Try and find out whether any of the items you intend to include in your case (like dressing gowns and beach towels) are already provided at your destination.

7. On the outbound flight always allow a small amount of leeway on your weight allowance for things that you buy while on holiday.

8. If you’re travelling with a ruck sack ensure that the shoulder straps are tied together and secured flush to the main body of the sack. 

9. Pack delicate objects in shoes and then place them at the very centre of your case to give the maximum amount of padding. Also pack things like socks and underwear within shoes to save space.

10. It’s a pain, but neatly folding all your clothes actually creates more space and hopefully reduces the amount of ironing you’re going to have to do at the other end.

11. Double check the list of items you are not permitted to take in your suitcase.

12. Maybe consider getting some of your clothes laundered while on holiday instead of trying to squeeze in an extra 6 pairs of boxers for that second week.

13. If you’re going to pack electricals like ipods etc ensure that they can’t accidentally be switched on i.e by packing them in a protective box.

14. Try and get a vague idea of your suit case’s weight in kg’s by putting it on your scales. This might save you money and time at check in.

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