How often have you travelled only to realise that the most important things were left in the closet at home? Of course, it is fun to pop into a few fantastic shops when on a trip, but if you already have several pairs of great black boots, having to spend money on another pair REALLY hurts!
Then there’s the other situation: You pack that suitcase to the absolute bursting point, schlep it around, and bring most of its contents back unused and unworn!
Whether you are setting off for business or pleasure, we’ve hunted down a carry-on of 7 very useful packing tips that will make life a whole lot easier.
1. BAG RESEARCH
Start off – and this is essential – with the luggage!
Step 1 is to double-check the airline’s rules and policies. You definitely don’t want to spend money on extra baggage fees before you’re even in the air…
Step 2 is to take the right bag for the job. A backpack isn’t going to work for a business conference, nor is a wheelie suitcase useful on a hiking trip.
PRO-TIP: Take along a foldable or collapsible bag. This will come in really handy if you want to keep your dirty laundry separate or do some shopping.
2. PLAN, PLAN, PLAN!
Now you have the bag or bags chosen, you can start packing, right? Wrong! Stop and think.
Step 1 is to make a list. Plan your outfits, consider the weather, and plan what you will be doing.
Step 2 is to keep that very list as a checklist so you don’t leave essentials behind.
PRO-TIP: Lay out your outfits – including the underwear, socks and accessories. Try on things you haven’t worn for a while to make sure they fit and don’t need mending.
3. COORDINATION IS KEY!
You might have different personalities and varied styles when you are at home, but random isn’t the best idea when travelling.
Step 1 is to pick a colour scheme that let’s you mix and match. This cuts down on the amount of clothing and also helps you to look put-together all the time.
Step 2 is to choose versatile pieces that can be dressed up or down and worn day or night.
Steps 1 and 2 count for shoes as well! Keep comfort in mind.
PRO-TIP: Take one fun, happy outfit that makes you feel great about yourself.
4. LAYER IT UP
Apart from being practical, layering is chic!
This one is pretty self-explanatory.
PRO-TIP: Try on the layers. Make sure the layering you plan is physically possible. A lightweight multi-purpose scarf is never wasted!
5. NO ONE WANTS TO BE WRINKLY!
Nobody wants to iron either!
Step 1 is to choose wrinkle-resistant fabrics where possible. Scrunch them up in your hand to see how well they hold up.
Step 2 is to roll up your clothes when packing. It saves space as well.
PRO-TIP: Packing cubes are a game-changer! Pack by type – it keeps your suitcase tidy AND you don’t have to upend your entire suitcase when hunting for something.
6. CARRY-ON CARRYING ON…
Your carry-on bag is the most hard-working member of your luggage! So, we’re going to skip the steps and go for all its roles:
• Lost luggage protector – Pack a spare outfit, important documents and all your medications in your carry-on. Of course, this is where your MYRKL* goes!
• Toiletry bag – Invest in travel-sized toiletries or pour some of yours into small bottles. This is a great space saver! Keep them in sealed plastic bags to avoid leaking. A basic First Aid kit is a great idea.
• Travel soothers – The things that make life easy, such as a book, your soft scarf, photographs – you know what we mean.
PRO-TIP: With all those essentials, keeping your carry-on bag safe and secure is important. Get a little travel lock and keep the key on your person.
7. CABLES, CHARGERS, COPIES & CASH
• Cables – Roll up your cables, put them in containers or bags and label them.
• Chargers – A portable charger is essential; one with multiple ports is best.
• Copies—In this digital age, it’s easy to rely on electronic versions of your important documents. However, to avoid stress, make physical copies.
• Cash—Keep some spare cash or a low-limit credit card stashed away for emergencies. Keep it away from your other cash and cards.
PRO-TIP: Consider using hidden pockets—in your clothes or a belt—to safely carry valuables and spare money.
That’s it! Follow these tips as you see fit, but remember the most important thing is to enjoy yourself. Don’t sweat the small stuff, and have fun.
BON VOYAGE!
Important Notes:
*MYRKL is a supplement designed to support well-being while consuming alcohol and promote responsible alcohol consumption. It efficiently slows down the absorption of alcohol, giving you the opportunity to enjoy your social experiences regret-free. Do not take more than the recommended dose of 2 capsules in 24 hours.
Based on a randomised placebo-controlled double-blind crossover study, conducted with 24 healthy subjects. Subjects were randomised to take 2 capsules/day of AB001 or placebo for 1 week prior to experimental day, where they ingested a light breakfast and drank a moderate glass of spirit (0.3 g/kg body weight).
- Pfützner A, Hanna M, Andor Y, Sachsenheimer D, Demircik F, Wittig T and de Faire J. Chronic Uptake of A Probiotic Nutritional Supplement (AB001) Inhibits Absorption of Ethylalcohol in the Intestine Tract – Results from a Randomized Double-blind Crossover Study. Nutr. Metab. Insights. 2022;15:1-5.
