Whether you are hopping aboard an airplane to travel for work or pleasure, it always is a good idea to pack light.
Some airlines even hand out financial incentives for packing light, giving us an even bigger reason to lighten up our suitcases. For example, EasyJet, a European discount airline, allows only one carry-on piece and charges $20 for checked baggage of up to 44 pounds.
Just think about it? Do you really want to be lugging around a large suitcase from the airport to hotel? In countries where small cars are abundant, your luggage may not even fit in the trunk!
With this being said, there are some ways to beat the system, lowering your airfare and allowing you to get around easier!
1. Think Less
Although this may seem like common sense, in order to pack less, you are going to have to be willing to live with less. If you feel uncomfortable living without your entire closet, just remember that this situation is just temporary. You’ll be reunited with your belongings soon enough!
2. Stuff clothing into shoes
If you are short on space, have you given it any thought to placing your clothes inside of your shoes? Shoes are without a doubt the item that takes up the most space within your shoes. So, the insoles of your shoes are actually an excellent place to store socks, underwear, or t-shirts.
3. Don’t worry about toiletries
Spend less time on your toiletries to save time during packing and room in your bag. Make a list of what you absolutely need. Hotels usually have soap, shampoo, and even toothpaste if you ask for it! If you have makeup, bring only the essentials. Small containers can come in handy if you would to take only a portion of a certain product.
4. The Layered Look
When thinking about your look, it’s all about layers. When travelling, it is difficult to predict the weather. At one moment it could be hot, while the next minute you are freezing on the plane! That’s why, it is important to always carry at least one sweater. Preferably, if the sweater can be dressed up, or down, you should be able to wear it with multiple looks.
5. Wear Your Bulkiest Items
During transit, it is helpful if your wear your bulkiest items on the plane. This especially comes in handy when it comes to your shoes. Wear your bulkiest boots on the plane so that it doesn’t take up room within your suitcase. Jeans can also take up a lot of space within your bag, so it would be beneficial to wear them on the plane. Shorts and skirts can be easily rolled up and take up minimal space within your bag, so feel free to pack those away into your carry on.
Follow these tips and you will surely be an expert at packing light!