The first question any person is asked when they tell their friends and family they are going on a trip is, “So have you packed yet?”
With these tips, the task does not have to be so daunting, there is nothing worse than forgetting something or overpacking. Hopefully, this guide will help you make sure you have everything you need and more.
- Airline Baggage Rules:
When you or if you are booking air travel, know which airline you are using and their baggage policy. There are two types of baggage allowed by airlines, weight and piece concept.
One is the number of bags with a maximum weight (Piece Concept) and the other is a maximum weight (Weight Concept). Knowing this will help you plan.
Knowing how much you have before you arrive at the airport helps the embarrassment of having to unpack your bag in front of strangers and being “THAT PERSON” and pre-paying for excess is always cheaper prior to departure than at the airport. - Purpose of Travel:
Whether for business or pleasure, if there are any additional items you need to take see if the airline allows for these items to travel at no additional cost. An example of this would be Golf Equipment, Sports Equipment, Musical Instruments etc. You might be able to have these checked in over and above your baggage allocation.
A really good travel agent will help you with this, a really great travel agent will help you maximise these allowances. - Make a packing list:
It might seem like just another list, however when things come to mind, write them down. That way you wont forget the business suite for the one meeting, the binoculars for the bird watching or swim suit for the beach. Even the simple things like a toothbrush. You will be amazed how even the most seasoned traveller can forget the most simple things. - Roll Don’t Fold:
It’s been proven, I kid you not even on Myth Busters that rolling items take up less space than regular folded clothing. In my opinion it also creases clothing less. - The 3 – 1 – 1 Rule:
Remember that items over a 100ml are not permitted in carry on luggage so if you are needing any toiletries or liquids, make sure you adhere to this rule. Travel size toiletries are great, they save on weight too, you need enough for your trip, not a months supply.
Also a great tip when you travelling, if you have an empty bottle, for water, you are always able to ask the cabin crew to fill it for you. Staying hydrated while travelling is really important. - Personal Items and carry on luggage:
The standard across all airlines and airports is 7kg’s, if it cant fit into the over head locker it’s not going to be allowed. Most airports also have those baggage templates you can fit your bag into before you board, at which point its a little late. In general, a back pack with your valuables, or small wheelie bag, remembering over head lockers or if it can fit under your seat.
If you plan on shopping, don’t be scared to pack an empty bag in your luggage so that you can fill it for your return trip. Just remember if you cant carry it, you shouldn’t be buying it, or packing it for that matter. - Plan your outfits:
Items of clothing that have a dual purpose are great, mix and match is the name of the game. Layers also keep a person warmer than big bulky items so make sure you pack a few items that can be used in multiple ways. Darker or neutral colours also tend to not get dirty as quickly. A bag full of white items and you sure to mess on each one. Airplanes generally are colder than normal, so travel with layers that can be easily removed or added whilst inflight or needed at your destination.
If you don’t wear it at home, I promise, you won’t be wearing it on your trip either. - Essential Items:
Make sure you have enough space in your hand luggage for those essential items, including valuables. Baggage pilfering is real, so make sure you keep those valuables close to you, including while on the plane also. Your passport, money and wallet should always be close at hand to you always. - Wash on the go:
There is no shame in this, if there are items that can be washed while you travel, go for it. Most hotels have a laundry service and almost every hotel has a wash line or rail of sorts to hang items that can be rinsed off in the basin. A little soap powder in the toiletry bag can help with the small items and for the bigger ones, the hotel is able to assist. Many hotels like the Hilton Gardens are now offering guest laundry rooms, check with your properties before you travel. - Gadgets and Plugs:
Make sure you check the country you are travelling to so that you have a universal plug or one that can be used in that country. There is no worse feeling in the world than have a power outlet and no adapter to plug and charge a much needed device. With this in mind also make sure you have your charger cables and any additional power banks that can give you that extra boost when you need it most.
Most importantly make sure you are not travelling with any major lithium batteries, these are considered dangerous goods and you would not be happy if these need to be unpacked and left behind.
