How to Efficiently Pack A Suitcase
In 2011, one commercial airline had an entire ad campaign based on its policy of not charging for extra baggage. It claimed every other airline did charge, and those charges added up to around $100. It all means a traveler can do herself good to pack efficiently and limit the amount of bags she has to carry. Start with a simple plan in advance. Anticipate your wardrobe and cleaning needs on the road, and determine what you "must" bring. Pack only what you need, and you should find the packing process automatically easier to complete.
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Instructions
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Put an extra pair of shoes in the bottom of the suitcase, then neatly fold or roll clothes, underwear or socks and pack them over and around the shoes. Rolling or folding will save space inside the suitcase. Try to pack clothes that will not completely wrinkle in this process, like stretch cotton. If you have bags or boxes to pack, try to stuff smaller bags into the larger bags.
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Use every bit of the suitcase space. Pack big, heavy items like sweaters and jeans first, then cram the socks, underwear and light T-shirts into the leftover space.
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Purchase travel-size toiletries when you get to your destination. Unless you need to use something on the plane or bus, you don't need to pack it in a suitcase or carry-on bag. Flights restrict the size of liquids in carry-on bags anyway, so avoid taking any shampoo, conditioner, perfumes or mouthwash unless it's vital to your health.
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Avoid using the suitcase for anything electronic, including an electronic toothbrush. The items will take up too much space. Pack a manual toothbrush instead. Other electronic items like laptops and ebook readers should be in your carry-on bag.
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Tips & Warnings
In the planning process, consider what clothes will match. You may not need two pairs of jeans if one pair will go with two different tops.
You could also save luggage space just by wearing the heaviest clothing items on the flight.
References
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