Packing Advice

Pack whatever you plan to take then put half of it back. Most people tend to take far more clothing than is really necessary. (If you are an expert packer, ignore this statement)

Never bring more than you can carry yourself

Try to pack clothing around the same color scheme so that you can mix and match, and minimize on accessories

When traveling with a companion try this idea supplied by one of our site visitors. Pack one of your outfits in your companion's suitcase and have him/her do likewise. Doing this will be invaluable should one person's bag be delayed upon arrival at your destination. (If both are lost, oh well, at least you tried your best!)

A full but not overstuffed suitcase helps keep clothes crease-free. Before you pack, decide how much you need and select a suitcase or carry-on accordingly

If your traveling requirements call for electrical appliances, be sure to bring convenient, travel size units that are both lightweight and compact

Pack a collapsible or expandable bag to carry items you purchase on the return leg of your trip (We have a habit of buying souvenirs)

When packing a hard-sided suitcase, begin by putting all the heavy items like shoes and toiletry kits on the bottom, near the hinges. Then place clothes that won't crease (such as sweaters, socks, T-shirts) around the heavier items to prevent them from sliding around and creasing other clothes

Try to pack clothes with fabrics that require little care (wrinkle-free, cotton-knit etc). Also try to visualize what clothes you will need on a particular trip (with regard to climate, events you will attend etc)

Distributing the weight in a suitcase evenly makes the case easier to carry

Wrap toiletries and the like in plastic in the event that items may break or leak and use plastic containers

Make sure to pack a small pouch with commonly needed incidentals such as aspirin, bandages and a small sewing kit. Small sample sizes are available at most chemists

Place your shoes in plastic bags to prevent them from soiling other clothes

Before you pack shirts, trousers, dresses or other items that might crease, make sure to:
Close all buttons and zips
Fold each item along its natural creases
Any creases on your clothes can be removed by hanging them in a bathroom filled with steam
Include a few plastic bags for dirty or damp clothes

Make sure the last items you pack are the first things you need when you arrive at your destination