Basic HTML Version
72 | FireFlyz
Check-lists
Make
a list of the essential items and
stick to it when packing. Without a list
you are likely to keep adding to a suitcase,
or you may forget what is in there and
duplicate packed items. A list will also
help when you are packing at the end of
your holiday, allowing you to make sure
you don’t leave anything you brought
with you behind.
Keep it small
Buy
yourself a small suitcase and you
will be forced to pack more carefully to
get in everything that you need. A large
case will only encourage you to take
unnecessary belongings because you
have the space.
Seven-day rule
However
long your trip, only take
enough clothes for seven days, as you
are likely to find somewhere to wash
your clothes during your holiday. You can
even pack a small bottle of travel wash
and clean clothes yourself.
Think versatility
When
picking the clothes and shoes to
pack, try and think versatility – select
colours, shoes and styles that will go with
lots of outfits and for various occasions
to minimise the amount of stuff you
need to take.
Travel bulky
Wear
your heaviest and bulkiest clothing
and shoes on the flight to save space in
your suitcase – you can always carry a
jacket on board if it’s too hot to wear it
when you leave.
Don’t ask ‘what if’
Packers
stray into the danger zone
when they start asking ‘what if …’.
Don’t pack for hypothetical situations or
potential occurrences – just take what
you will definitely need. You can always
buy something if you are stuck.
Mini toiletries
Almost
all brands of toiletries are avail-
able in miniature these days, so stock up
on all your favourite products in a small
size to save masses of space (and weight)
Reflections
No onewants to spend ages waiting for baggage or drag huge, heavy suitcases
aroundwhen travelling. Here are some top tips for packing smart and light tomake
travel a breeze.
Pack Light, Travel Smart
in your suitcase. Remember, basics like
toothpaste can always be bought at your
destination.
Compression bags
These
clever bags are the heavy packers’
salvation! You can easily buy compres-
sion bags at supermarkets or department
stores before you leave. Simply fill them
up and suck their air out with a vacuum
cleaner – you will be amazed at how
small your clothes become!
Roll and stuff
Small
items that can be creased, such
as socks and underwear, can be rolled
tightly and stuffed into shoes and the tight
corners of your suitcase when packing – it
may take longer but it will save you a lot
of space for the bulkier items.
Tech-up
Make
the most of your iPhone or tablet
by loading apps, books and magazines to
avoid having to fill your bag with reading
material or travel guides. Just make sure
you have your charger (and an adaptor if
necessary) or your efforts will be futile!
Check the weather
Take
a look at the weather forecast for
your destination a few days before you
fly and only pack suitable clothing – if it
is going to be hot and sunny, leave the
jacket and umbrella at home!
The Lifting Test
If
your bag is too heavy for you to easily
lift and pull along, you have too much
stuff! Remember you have a long journey
and you will resent a heavy suitcase
when you are tired. Only pack what you
can comfortably carry and leave the rest
behind.