Comments on: How to Pack a Suitcase

on 11/22/2005 Instead of buying the fancy vacuum bags to save space, use regular sandwich bags and just sit on them. This works just as well, but it's cheaper.

on 11/22/2005 I found that the little ties that come with garbage bags great when it comes to traveling. I use the to hold the zippers closed, because mini locks are no longer allowed. It keeps your things from falling out and it also allows for easy access incase your luggage gets searched!

on 11/22/2005 If you have reason to believe that your suitcase may be placed in or around anything that may get it wet, put everything possible in a Ziploc baggie. Preferably the ones that are leak-resistant. If anything were to spill on your suitcase, it wouldn't wet your $200 suit.

on 11/22/2005 I travel to different countries and climates very often, and I love clothes. My minimalist strategy is to lay out everything I want to take on my bed and group the items into outfits. Then, I eliminate until only the very coolest outfits are left, being sure that evening wear, daywear, and sportswear are covered. In other countries, it is common to wear clothes many days in a row. Also, the people you pass are never going to see you again anyway, so repeat outfits are no big deal. Always roll clothes tightly, take only one versatile jacket/sweater, and know that you can buy any items you really need along the way.

on 11/22/2005 Pack a pen and sheet of paper on which to note items you regret not bringing on your trip, or items which have been used up or lost during the trip.

on 11/22/2005 When packing the essentials (socks and underwear), use their compact size to your advantage and stuff them inside hats or shoes to save space in your suitcase.

on 11/22/2005 Go to the $1 store and get the micro zip lock bags. You can get 50 for $1 and they come in various sizes. Put each day's pills in a single zip lock bag...This way, you pick one bag up and put it in your pocket and you have your pills for breakfast. When you use pill cases, they have a tendency to fall. Put all medication in the micro mini zip lock bags. It's easy, convenient, and water proof.

on 11/22/2005 Some duct tape with your last name or other identifying information will help you spot your bag on the luggage carousel. Taking a roll of tape with you may come in handy for quick repairs of all kinds.

on 11/22/2005 If you have any clothing that is getting worn out and you will soon be disposing of but is still "presentable," take it with you. When you're ready to leave, toss it out and you will have additional space in your bags.

on 11/22/2005 If you would like bringing home keepsakes from your trip, roll a duffel bag up and use it to pack your keepsakes in. That way you will also have more room in your suitcase for more items you are bringing back as well. :-)

on 11/22/2005 During these times of increased airport security, plan ahead to decrease your embarrassment at the airport. Pack all of your undergarments in plastic bags with 'zipper' closures. When the security personnel opens your luggage, they look through your belongings but aren't able to 'manhandle' your personal items as easily. Also, a great way to pack those items that you aren't willing for others to see in an inspection is to pack those unmentionables in between your undergarments so that only the unders are seen.

on 11/22/2005 If you pack your cosmetics with your carry-on luggage, be sure to remove any metal eyelash curlers, nail clippers, etc. to avoid setting off a metal detector.

on 11/22/2005 When taking essentials (shampoo, toothpaste, body lotion, etc.) bring trial sizes (available for around 50 cents). When you're finished, throw them away . This gives you more room to pack other things, including souvenirs.

on 11/22/2005 Pack and wear older clothes that you will be getting rid of. Then, leave them with a charitable organization that will accept your donated item. Voila! You've made room in your suitcase for your purchases, while helping meet someone else's need. Traveling abroad? Contact the country's embassy here (or search the Internet) for churches and other organizations that accept used clothing.

on 11/22/2005 Bulky items such as pillows or stuffed animals can take up most of your baggage space. If you absolutely need them, put your bulky item in a garbage bag, then use your vaccuum to vaccum the air out. King-sized feather pillows turn into the size of a shirt!!