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When heading off on a trip, sometimes it’s difficult to know what to put in your suitcase. After all, each voyage requires different things; a backpacking adventure to South America is very different than a relaxing cruise in the Caribbean! But no matter the destination, there will always be some universal tricks to help you bring what you need.
1. Roll your clothes
Many long-term backpackers can attest to this! When getting your clothes ready, roll your clothes into bundles. This will help them fit more easily into your suitcase or backpack, leaving you more room to fit more items.
2. Consider getting a large Shemagh scarf
Shemagh scarves are large, soft, lightweight, and perfect for a multitude of uses. They can be used to block out the sun, keep you warm on long on plane rides and even dry if you off if you happened to lose your towel. In fact, they’re so useful that even some people in the military use them.
3. Make a list
This might sound incredibly simple, but sometimes it can help you more than you realize. When packing, it’s easy to just start throwing in clothes and items that you really like. But putting everything on a list helps you whittle down unnecessary things. As a general rule, try to list things in relation to different potential situations. For example, if you really want to bring a certain pair of pants, think about why you might need them. Are they good for a night out? Or a long city tour? If you can’t think of any situation that you would specifically need them for on your trip, don’t bring them. Also remember that some clothes can be used for multiple situations.
4. Wear your bulkiest shoes while you’re traveling to your destination
Because everyone has different kinds of trips, this tip might not work for everyone. What if you’re going on a business trip and your bulkiest pair of shoes is a pair of heels? But for everyone else, this can help you save space in your luggage. For instance, if you’re bringing sneakers, flip flips, and hiking boots, wear the hiking boots on the plane.
5. Use the inside of your shoes
Instead of putting your socks into another section of your bag, consider storing them inside a pair of shoes. It’s an easy way to compact them into a small space, leaving plenty of room for souvenirs. You can use this method to store a plethora of different things, but make sure that what you put in won’t fall out.
-by Connie Lee
