How to Pack a Suitcase for a Plane Ride
Whether it is to make random security searches easier or just so you can remember what you packed and where, it is always a good idea to pack your suitcase in an orderly fashion. Folding items to maximize the space and using zip-top bags and toiletry kits are all ways you can have a well-organized suitcase and minimize accidental leaks or spills during your flight.
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Instructions
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Separate your clothes into types. For example, you can group them into the categories of bottoms, tops, underwear, socks, sleeping clothes and miscellaneous items (like swimsuits).
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Roll your clothes to maximize space and prevent wrinkling as you pack each item.
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Place like items in the same area of the suitcase. Start with heavier pieces, such as jeans, at the bottom of the luggage. Next to them, pack your tops, then sleeping clothes, then undergarments, gradually working your way to the top of the suitcase.
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Leave space at the top for your toiletry bag. Putting it at the top will prevent extra weight from resting on it while you are rolling the suitcase or letting it stand upright. The weight could squish bottles, causing leaks.
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Use a travel toiletry bag or makeup bag with a zipper to pack your toiletries and liquid items. Consider putting liquid items like hairspray inside a zip-top bag before putting in the toiletry bag.
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Place your toiletry bag inside another protective bag, like a plastic shopping bag, or in a zip case, like those used for new sheet sets. Put the secured toiletry bag at the top of your suitcase, upright.
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Put your shoes in a shoe bag or plastic shopping bag to protect your clean clothes. Place the shoes on top of clothes wherever they fit in comfortably. Also consider using the outside pockets for sandals or flats.
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Zip up your bag to the top so that the zipper sliders come together at the end of the zipper chain on the top of the suitcase. This will keep the zipper from drifting open on the side, and will prevent contents from falling out.
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Write your name, address and phone number on a piece of paper and put it inside of your bag. Provide the same information on a tag and hang it on the bag handle.
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Tips & Warnings
Consider packing loose items that move around easily (such as undergarments and socks) in a bag, so they will stay together when your suitcase gets jostled during transport.
Never pack valuables, including electronics and jewelry, in your checked luggage. Also, consider leaving expensive face creams and perfumes at home. If something is taken or your luggage is lost, it is likely you will never get it back.
Resources
- Photo Credit xenia, http://www.morguefile.com/archive/display/93650
