When it comes to a break away, we’ve all fallen victim to over-packing. This is often justified by claims of ‘But what if…’ and ‘I might need it just in case.’ Before you know it, you are sitting on top of the suitcase battling to get the zipper closed. With these tips to save space, you might just be able to cram your luggage into a carry-on bag. Avoid those nasty checked luggage fees once and for all. Or, at the very least manage to close your suitcase zip without the aid of body weight!
- First things first, make a list. It’s a fool proof way to plan and should see less of the ‘throwing random items into your suitcase higgledy-piggledy’ routine that would normally ensue.
- Lay your clothes out and match them up. Bring plenty of mix and match items. It may well be a very pretty top or a really cool shirt, but if it doesn’t match anything else, ditch it! Chances are it would have just stayed at the bottom of your case untouched for the duration of your trip. Consider the occasion for each potential outfit.
- Roll, don’t fold. Not only does it reduce the number of wrinkles, it also saves tons more space.
- The ladies among you should consider items which have multiple uses. For example, a sarong is not just a beach cover up; it can also be a skirt, a towel, a scarf. It can even be tied into a large bag which you can use on the beach. Get imaginative.
- Use socks and underwear as fillers! They can be stuffed into shoes and into the nooks and crannies along other items in your luggage.
- Consider the weather. If it is likely to rain during your time away, consider packing a mini umbrella instead of a more bulky rain jacket. For ultimate space saving, just chance it and buy one locally if need be.
- Sometimes it is unavoidable and you will need to take a jumper or coat with you. If that is the case, wear bulkier items on the plane so that you can save stacks of space in your luggage.
- Try to save a little space for those last minute items like your toothbrush. Save a little space for some small souvenirs you might pick up along the way.
- Consider investing in a Jak Togo. These jackets claim to be the ultimate solution for extra luggage space. The jackets have large, strong pockets on the exterior where you can store plenty of items without the worry of exceeding your hang luggage requirement, as you will be wearing it. Not exactly flattering but a great way to get extra items on board.
- Loading the entire contents of your bathroom cabinet is probably not a good idea. Not only because of airline restrictions, but also from a space-saving point of view. When it comes to personal hygiene, remember to go mini and stick to the basics.
- Unless you are holidaying in the middle of nowhere, you will be able to pick up anything you have forgotten and desperately need from a local shop.
It might sound like a lot to remember but a little preparation and prior planning before you start packing can go a long way and could even help you to save some money. Have you got any space saving tips of your own? Let us know.
Thanks for your comment Liz, that’s an excellent idea!
I take an empty space bag, the vacuum type and put all my used clothes in it for the return journey and save loads of room for those extras we always buy on hols.
my God, 5 euros for an umbrella….bet that ruined your holiday !
Item 6, is a good idea, but beware, got caught in heavy rain on a market in Spain. Umbrella Price Ticket double sided, I for shine, I for rain. Price doubled to 5 Euros per brolly!!.
Easy. Go on a Naturist Holiday. Everything fits into hand luggage.