Pack Like a Pro

Date Posted: Jun 18, 2008

Begin making a list days before your trip; add items as you think of them. Check rules and regulations with the U.S. Transportation Sescurity Administration and with your airline--pay attention to luggage size restrictions and items prohibited. If you are traveling internationally, check regulations imposed by the country which you are visiting. Find out the kind of electric current used; your electric items may not work without a converter. Likewise, find out if your cell phone will work in the place where you are visiting.

Carry-on Bag:
Make a list of your carry-on items. Include a change of clothes (underwear & shirt) just in case your luggage doesn't arrive when you do. Many airlines provide in-flight amenity kits on international flights; for example, airlines often provide a toothbrush and toothpaste so you would not have to pack those in your carry-on. Go to the airline's website for information. Remember not to pack any liquids except as allowed. Pack prescriptions in your carry-on. You may want to have a snack packed if you have a connecting flight in case your flight is late and you don't have time to eat at the airport. Good options are protein or energy bars with less than 200 calories and 3 or more grams of fiber. Avoid salted nuts, candy or greasy foods. If you normally travel with a purse, put the items from your purse in your carry-on and pack the purse in your suitcase. Use an outside pocket for your photo ID to save time at the ticket counter and security gate.

Suitcase:
Make a list for your suitcase. Plan your wardrobe around one color scheme so you can limit shoes to 1 or 2 pair. Wear a jacket that coordinates with everything. Take the smallest suitcase that you can. You will be pleased when you aren't hauling a heavy large bag around. Make efficient use of all your space by filling crevices and inside your shoes with small items. Rolling or bundling clothes allows you to fit more in. Check out www.onebag.com to learn about bundling. If you are packing for a business trip, putting clothes in a dry cleaner bag before you roll or bundle them creates air pockets and minimizes wrinkles. You should be able to buy toiletries and other inexpensive items at your destination so you don't have to take everything with you. Include a fold up bag so that if you buy things on your trip you can bring them home. Before closing your suitcase, burp any bottles with liquid to prevent leakage caused from air trapped inside the containers. Finally, attach a distinctive label to your suitcase so that you can recorgnize it easily.