Packing Tips

Packing is probably the least pleasant part of travel. Deciding what to take - and making it all fit - frustrates even the most seasoned traveler.

The Golden Rule of traveling is to pack lightly.

It may be tempting to pack your entire closet into your suitcase, but it is hardly sensible. After settling on a vacation destination, the first thing travelers should do is make up a list of what they will need. This accomplishes two things: it speeds up packing and lets the traveler know what might be missing in the event of lost luggage. Keep this list with you in your wallet or in your carry-on luggage. It helps in case of lost luggage situation.

You should buy all your toiletries in travel sizes or, even better; simply buy them at your destination. Select clothes in coordinating colors, so that you can get several looks out of just a few pieces. Pack all your valuables into your carry-on bag, items such as travel documents, medications, keys, cameras, cash, credit cards, jewelry, etc.

You should always carry important phone numbers along with other important details such as your passport details or copy of your passport in your carry-on bags.

How to pack:

• Start by placing the heavy or bulky items on the bottom of the suitcase, like shoes, cosmetic box, etc.
• Protect fragile items by putting them inside thick clothing and placing them in the center of the case.
• To keep clothing wrinkle-free, place all articles inside plastic bags or wrap them in tissue paper. Rolling your clothes into cylinders, instead of folding them, can also help.
• Extra plastic bags come in handy when transporting wet bathing suits and soiled clothes.
• Put your name inside and outside. Write your name, address, and phone number inside the bag, as the airlines and the DOT recommend, not just on an outside tag. It's also a good idea to put destination information and a copy of your flight itinerary inside as well, to help the airline find you. If you're worried about lost luggage, take an inventory of what you pack; it'll help if you have to file a claim.
• Remove straps and hooks, which can get caught in baggage-handling machinery.
• Remove old tags. You don't want your bag heading back to Hawaii when you're on the way to Paris.
• Have you noticed that many luggage look an awfully lot alike? Use a brightly colored luggage tag or ribbon and you can spot yours a mile away!
• Lock your luggage. Although very few bags get pilfered, it doesn't hurt to lock them up.