So you have your trip booked, often making use of the services of a travel agent or consultant like Sylwia Majtczak, and now you need to get everything you want to take with you packed away and ready to go. This leads you to the time-honored dilemma that many travelers face: how to prepare and pack properly for the trip. It is a quandary that can cause all sorts of stress, especially if you need to consider weight limits for your luggage. Thankfully, there are many tips that you can put to good use that are designed to make the whole process as simple as possible.
Create A Checklist
Write a list of everything that you want to take with you before you even open your bags. Consider everything from the weather you may face to the length of the vacation in making this list and write it with what you want, rather than the limitations you face, in mind. Once you have this list in front of you it is easier to start going through it and cutting the non-essential items that you may be able to get when you are there or won’t really be required at your destination.
Use Dead Space
If weight limitations aren’t an issue, then you need to make use of every bit of spare space that your case has to offer. Stuff all of the little items, like underwear and socks, into the nooks and crannies that can’t be used for anything else. Remember that any shoes you pack will also take up a lot of space, so fill them with socks and underwear as well.
Packing Liquids
Many airlines now place restrictions on the amount of liquids you can bring with you, especially in your carryon luggage. As a general rule you should pack liquids to 100ml each, using special bottles that have been designed for the purpose. Place all of these bottles into a clear Ziploc bag so they can be viewed easily at security and don’t be offended if somebody tells you that you can’t take a liquid on the flight with you. Do your research so you don’t end up with nasty surprises when you try to check in.
Make Your Case Unique
After a while every suitcase starts to look the same, which can make it a nightmare to find yours when you are at the luggage carousel. To avoid this problem, try to do something that will make your case stand out, so it is easy to find at all times, such as attaching a luggage tag. This will also provide attendants with useful information if your bag gets lost in transit, as it gives them something to look out for.
Sylwia Majtczak is a travel consultant who has worked for Altour since 2004.
