16 Tips for Packing a Suitcase

Whether you're on your way to a wonderful vacation somewhere warm or traveling on business, packing a suitcase can be a hassle for many. Learning how to maximize that space that you have in your suitcase is critical. With record high fuel prices, many airlines have instituted strict rules regarding how much luggage you can bring. If you are not able to maximize the space available and need to take more baggage, it could end up costing you.

1. Lay out all of the items that you would like to take with you. Only choose stuff that is absolutely necessary, not just things that you "might" need. Depending on your mode of travel, you will need to decide how many bags you are allowed to take. Consult with specific airlines for their baggage limits.

2. Pack all our valuable items in a carry-on bag. Also place any crucial items like prescription drugs (in their original bottle), contact lenses, toothbrush and a light change of clothing in your carry-on if you're traveling on a plane. If your luggage is lost, at least you will have the essentials to get by for a little while.

3. Be sure to check with the airlines regarding carrying liquid items on the plane. You may have to hand over that expensive bottle of shampoo if its too large, or pack it in your checked luggage.

4. Any item that you will need to get you from the airport to your destination such as other tickets, maps, phone numbers, directions or notes should be carried on the plane as well.

5. Roll your clothing when you're putting it into your suitcase. You will be surprised at how much space you will save by rolling your clothes, and it will help to prevent wrinkles. Try to roll them as tightly as possible. For anything that can't be rolled, place those items on the bottom of the suitcase, as flat as possible. Items like pants or jeans may need to go in the bottom.

6. Place your shoes on top, but make sure you wrap them in a plastic bag to avoid marking your clean clothes.

7. Look for empty spaces that you can tuck little items after the suitcase is packed. Use up all the available space and don't forget about the outside pockets of the suitcase.

8. If traveling on business and you have to take large books or papers, place them at the bottom of the suitcase. However, if it would cause major issue if you lost the book or papers, make sure you take them on the plane with you.

9. If traveling by car, you likely think that you can take as much luggage as you want, and that's true. But remember, the heavier the car is, the more fuel it will take to get to your destination.

If you're traveling on business and must take formal clothing like suits or dresses, place them in an appropriate garment bag so that they will not get wrinkled or ruined.

10. Like many vacationers, if you plan to do some shopping before you go, make sure to take an extra bag with you so you won't have to buy another. Again, remember you luggage limits imposed by the airlines.

11. Don't pack your suitcase too heavy. It will make it difficult to get in and out of vehicle trunks and off the baggage claim at the airport.

Bag solid colored items that can be easily mixed and matched so that you have the appearance of a new outfit everyday while reusing some pieces.

12. Take colorful accessories to help add a touch of color rather than bringing a large number of colored items. This can cut down on the amount of luggage that you will need to take.

13. For men, take a blazer that matches with a number of items that can easily dress up any outfit.

14. When choosing your outfits, try to think about what shoes go with the outfit. If you pack outfits that require you to bring several pairs of shoes, try going with outfits that will allow you to take only 2 pairs of shoes with you.

15. Place socks in the toes of your shoes to keep them from being crushed.

If you're going on a trip where you will be quite active (ie. theme parks, hiking etc), use a backpack as your carry-on and then you can use it when at your destination.

16. Don't buy gigantic luggage! I once traveled with my parents and they were determined to buy a piece of luggage that would suffice for 2 people for 2 weeks. Needless to say, the suitcase was so large that the two grandkids could have fit in it with room to spare. It was very heavy to get in and out of the car and off the luggage claim at the airport.

Carry-On Luggage Size Information

If you're like most travelers, you might try to stuff as many items in your carry-on as possible. To avoid a possibly embarrassing or frustrating time at the boarding gate, don't try to bend the rules.

For many airlines usually a bag cannot exceed 22 inches by 14 inches or weigh more than 40 lbs. Some airlines allow a larger bag in size, but limit the weight. Even if an airline does allow you to take a heavy bag, consider whether you want to lug around a 40 lb. bag all day! Some airlines restrict carry-on luggage to a tiny 11lbs, so make sure you check with your specific airline. Keep in mind that the bag must fit either under the seat or in the storage overheard. Be courteous of other travelers. If you're in a row with two other people, remember that 3 bags need to be able to fit in the overheard compartment, not just yours!

The standard carry on luggage rules are 22" X 14" X 9" for a total of 45". Again, these carry on luggage dimensions vary both by airline and shape of the bag. Even if your carry on luggage doesn't exceed the allowed dimensions, the airline can make you prove that the bag will fit by putting it in a box, and if it won't fit, your luggage will be checked.

See below for airline specific carry-on luggage size information and regulations.

Airtran
Alaska Airlines
American Airlines
Continental
Delta
JetBlue
Northwest
Southwest
Spirit
United
US Airways

Did Your Luggage Survive Your Vacation

If you're like me, during the summer we do quite a bit of traveling during the summer months.  Not all of these trips are on an airplane, so we can keep our luggage in decent shape, but using luggage often takes its toll.

We had one luggage casualty this year so far; one of handles used to roll the bag when its in the upright position broke.  The suitcase is still very usable, but it doesn't look good.

So what do you do when your luggage breaks when you're away?  If you're at the airport, you might be tempted to purchase a new suitcase at a store there, but have you looked at their prices? They know that people that buy at the airport are in a hurry and desperate and they charge accordingly.  Of course if you only have one suitcase and it's totally destroyed, you may not have any other options.

Designer luggage does tend to hold up better than cheap luggage, but with lots of use, even good luggage can break.  The best way to save yourself the expensive and headache, inspect your luggage thoroughly before you leave on vacation, preferably a few weeks ahead of time. If you see something that causes concern and you suspect your luggage may break, buy new luggage before going away.  By doing this you not only avoid the hassle in the airport, but you save money.

If you know ahead of time that you will need new luggage, check out online stores and auctions before visiting a retail store.   You will be able to get more for your money by buying your new luggage on the internet.

Check out these great deals on designer luggage

Hardside Luggage

If you've ever sat in an airport terminal and watched planes being loaded and unloaded, you know that luggage handlers aren't exactly kind to your luggage!  Luggage gets tossed, dropped, crammed or many find itself buried at the bottom of a heap of luggage.  When you arrive at your destination you find that something is broken or sometimes even worse, some shampoo or other bottle with liquid in it as broken and spilled everywhere.

So what's the solution to these problems.  One solution would be to fly on a private jet and have your luggage loaded with care.  Unfortunately for most of us, we'll never see the inside of a private jet, but are more likely to be hanging out with 200 strangers on a commercial flight.

The real solution is in the type of luggage that you use.  Any clothlike material, vinyl or even leather, if it's no on a solid frame will leave your suitcase vulernable to getting damaged.  Hardside luggage can solve that problem.  Hardside luggage is luggage that make look more like a small trunk.  It's got a hard shell usually made of plastic that can withstand the bumps and bruises without damaging what's inside.

There is one downfall to hardside luggage and it comes when you're trying to pack your car.  Sometimes you need just 1 inch more to get the trunk closed and with conventional suitcases, you just give it a nudge and you've now got enough room to close the trunk. Not so with hardside luggage.  Because its made of hard plastic it doesn't have room to move which can be frustrating if you're just a little short on space.

New hardside luggage comes in many different sizes and colors and many times has 4 wheels on the bottom rather than two.  This is great because you don't have to balance the suitcase and pull it at the same time like the ones with two wheels.  This is great when you're traveling and your arms are full.

I would say that the pros certainly outway the cons though.  Think about what you put inside your luggage.  If you're traveling with something that you would be devastated if it were broken, then certainly buy some hardside luggage.

Luggage Reviews

So before you buy that new luggage, you likely want to know if your investment is a good one, right?  There are a few places to go if you want luggage reviews from people who actually own the luggage.  Sometimes looking for reviews on any product and in this case,  luggage reviews can be a wise thing.

I'm sure all of us have learned the hard way.  You went out and bought something for a considerable amount of money only to find out it doesn't do what you wanted it to do or the quality is not what you expected.  You can prepare in advance of a purchase of luggage by looking at the reviews posted online from people who already own the piece of luggage that you looking at buying.

Here's a link to a page that lists places where you can find Luggage Reviews.

Travel In Style - Louis Vuitton Luggage

For frequent travelers with a flare for fashion, designer luggage is a must since traveling with cheap department store luggage is not an option. For one thing, cheap luggage is exactly that; Cheap! Luggage purchased at a department store or discount store is usually of poor quality. The handles break, the seems rip and the wear and tear on a piece of cheap luggage is noticeable.

Now compare that to a nice piece of Louis Vuitton Luggage. Vuitton luggage is the exact opposite of cheap luggage. It's made of the best materials available and able to withstand frequent use but the cost is usually more. Louis Vuitton Luggage is a fashion guru's dream. If you normally spend quite a bit of time on your clothing choices and have to look perfect, adding designer luggage to your ensemble is a must, especially important for frequent travelers.

A Louis Vuitton suitcase will not only look good, but will stand up to the abuse incurred by both airline staff and taxi drivers. Because of its quality construction you won't have to worry about your luggage falling apart at the airport, which can be a very frustrating experience.

Vacation Packing Checklist

Have you ever went on a vacation only to find out that you had forgotten something once you have already arrived at your destination? How unfortunate would it be to arrive in a beautiful country full of lots of sights only to find you forgot to pack your camera somewhere in your luggage!  Remember to try to pack your suitcases as light as possible to make traveling much less hassle. Wear clothing items more than once and choose items that you can mix and match. This will give the appearance of a new outfit everyday, while reusing some items.  Using a vacation planning checklist will ensure that you haven't forgotten any important items. Here is a list of items that you will need to take as well as some tips.

For your convenience you can also download and print a

pdf version of the Vacation Packing Checklist Here.

Checked Luggage/Suitcases

Climate Appropriate Clothing:

Undergarments

Bras, Underwear, boxers. If you're packing for a romantic getaway, don't forget any other special apparel. (ie. lingerie)

Outerwear or Sweater

Even if you plan to go somewhere warm, remember that it can still get quite chilly in the evening. Bring a light jacket, sweater or hoodie. Taking multiple thin layers is better than bulkier items, since you can always remove items if you're too hot.

Pants/Skirts

Do you have pants for more formal events or dinners as well as jeans or khakis?

Shirts/Blouses

Both T-Shirts, Golf Shirts are great for less formal events, but plan to bring a dress shirt of two, especially for fine dining.(Very important for Cruises where dinners are usually formal or semi-formal attire)

Socks/Pantyhose

Remember to pack socks that will match your outfits. Sticking with simple colors ensures that you will have the right color of socks for whatever outfit that you will wear.

Shoes/Sandals

If you can, try to only take 2 pairs. Plan your outfits and shoe choices together beforehand to minimize the number of shoes that you should take. For hot climates, remember your sandals. Wear the heaviest pair if you're taking a plane so that you aren't stuck carrying them.

Swimwear

I have forgotten this on many occasions were swimming was not high on the list of things to do. Remember that even if you're on a business trip, most hotels have a pool or hot tub that you may want to use to wind down in the evening.

Sleepwear

This one sounds funny, but we actually forgot to take sleepwear on our honeymoon...and you WILL want it eventually!

Clothing Accessories

Ties, belts, scarves, pins, jewelry etc.

Miscellaneous Items:

GPS

If you are driving, a GPS is invaluable. Make sure that it has maps to support the country you are visiting before you go.

Cell Phone/PDA

Check with your provider about roaming fees before you use it to avoid a surprise when you get the bill! Bring the charger as well, especially for trips longer than 48 hours.

Laptop

Carry it in a padded case, but be prepared to take it out of the case at the airport screening points.

Sarong/Beach Towels

A sarong works well for women for many uses and many hotels do not allow guest to use hotel towels at a beach.

Sunglasses

I've purchased several pairs while at a sunny destination because I left mine in the car.

Alarm Clock

Useful if you're staying somewhere that may not have one, although most hotels do.

Deodorant

This one needs no explanation.

Shampoo

Usually relatively inexpensive if you forget, but if you use special shampoo, it could be expensive to replace. Try to take travel sizes if possible.

Hair Accessories

Hairspray, gel, mousse, rollers etc.

Lint roller

Especially important if you're wearing dark suits

Makeup

Try to take only the items that you know you will use.

Fragrances

Body sprays make a great alternative especially when traveling.

Creams/Masks

Wrinkle cream or moisturizer that you use regularly.

Cotton Swabs

Remember that if you're going for more than a couple of nights, ou may want

these.

First Aid Kit

Even a small simple kit containing some antibiotic cream and bandages is helpful.

Sunscreen

Buy at least an SPF 15 and you should save money by buying it before you go. Many travel destinations realize that many people forget it and they charge accordingly.

Foreign Language Dictionary

Handy to have if you plan to travel somewhere that English is not the first language. For places like Europe where countries are close together, you may need to ensure you have a few languages in one dictionary.

Hat

Very important even for women if you're traveling in an area with lots of sun and high heat.

Sports Gear

Golf clubs, Tennis equipment etc.

Prepaid Phone Card

Since hotel calling and cell roaming charges can be very expensive, consider buying prepaid phone card that works for the country that you are visiting.

In Your Carry On Bag

Vaccination Certificates

If you are traveling to a country where there are problems with disease, you may be required to show proof that you have been vaccinated from certain illnesses.

ATM Card

If you plan to take cash advances, check with your bank to see if they have arrangements with other banks at your destination. You may be able to use ATM's of certain banks for free if you inquire with you local bank before going.

Maps & Directions

Carry these with you so that to avoid getting lost, especially if you need them once you get to your destination. Printing off maps from http://maps.google.com is a good idea. Think about directions to the airport, from the airport to your hotel, from your hotel to any sights that you would like to visit. This also helps to plan your time wisely.

Health Insurance Cards

If you have a card from your health insurance provider that establishes the fact that you have out of country insurance, take it with you. Also take any numbers that you need to call before seeking medical attention or if you're admitted to the hospital. It might be wise to carry the name and number of your family Physician as well, especially if you have documented health problems.

Credit Card

Always handy to carry two kinds, Visa, Mastercard or Amex since some destinations prefer one over the other. Ensure there's sufficient credit available by making payments before you go and give time for them to process. Leave at least 5 days prior to leaving for the processing of credit card payments if you need the available credit when you leave.

Passport

Likely the most important item to take with you. Carry it and know where it is at all times! Make photocopies and put in checked luggage as well.

Birth Certificate

Useful for establishing identity, especially if you lose your passport.

Driver's License

Even if you're not driving, it helps to establish your identity.

Copy of Marriage License

I have never actually needed this, but something good to keep in your wallet or purse.

Addresses

If you plan to send postcards, take addresses of those you wish to mail.

Important Phone Numbers

Family and friends. Also a good idea to have phone numbers for the embassy in whatever country you are planning. This is especially handy if you are traveling somewhere dangerous. Also remember to take the numbers of your bank and credit card providers to call if you lose your cards.

Travel Confirmations

If you booked a flight, hotel or car rental online, make sure you print off your confirmations from each travel company that you booked with.

MP3 Player

If you're an avid music fan, you won't want to go without your MP3 player. Great to take on the plane.

Camera

Whether digital or film, you will want to take lots of pictures.

Batteries

Digital cameras can use up batteries very fast. If you have one, take a battery charger with you and some extra batteries they can be quite expensive at vacation destinations.

Camera Memory Cards

Nice to have if you run out of space of you memory card malfunctions.

Toothbrush/Toothpaste

Nice to carry with you to freshen up throughout the day.

Prescription Drugs

Keep them in the original bottle and pack them in your carry-on to minimize the risk of loss. If they are vitally important, get an extra prescription written to carry with you if you need to replenish.

Over the counter Drugs

If you are prone to headaches, stomach problems, heartburn etc and frequently take over the counter drugs, consider bringing them with you in their original packaging. If you are traveling to a foreign country, it may not always be possible to buy certain over the counter drugs.

Glasses/Contacts

Easy to forget if you don't have to wear them all the time. Remember if you wear contacts to bring the accessories that you may need.