Pocket Change - Shopping Blog

I think that learning how to pack our luggage/suitcase before we head out to our trip is very important.  The reason why I say this is because oftentimes when we get back  from our trip, our luggage gets even BIGGER! If we learn how to pack before heading out for a trip, then we can use the same packing tips for our way back!

Perhaps one of the most difficult and stressful parts of preparing for a trip, is packing your luggage. Figuring out what you will need to bring for the duration of your stay is hard enough, but even once you’ve figured out what to bring, you’ll need to figure out how to get two weeks worth of clothing to fit into one suitcase.

Packing a suitcase properly is more art than science, but there are a few techniques that have been developed to fit more clothes into less space. Here are a few tips for packing your bag:

• Fold your clothes. It seems like common sense, but too many people throw their clothing into their suitcase without folding it properly. Folding your clothes saves space, and helps keep your clothing looking nice and neat. The only problem with folding is creasing that can occur while traveling.
• Bundle wrapping. Bundle wrapping is a technique of folding a set of clothes together, from largest to smallest, into one neat little bundle. The advantage of bundle wrapping is that it makes good use of space, and helps to prevent your clothes from creasing.
• Military style folding. Separate your items into separate clothing types, fold them into thin strips, then roll them up. This is a very efficient way to store your clothes, and the rolls of clothes are often small enough to stuff into other items such as shoes.
• Pack your largest items first, then your smallest. This will result in the optimum space usage of your luggage. Make sure that if there are items that you want to get to quickly, such as a cellphone charger, pack it near the top of the bag so you can reach it easily, or keep it in a carry-on.
• Invest in expandable luggage . These specially made suitcases can be expanded to increase their capacity. With expandable luggage you’ll have lots of space for all of your clothes, and it doesn’t take up too much room when it’s not in use.

These tips were written by our traveling expert, Takeshi.  Enjoy your Trip!

-Shenny