Your tickets are booked and exciting plans have been made. You can’t wait and you think you’ve thought of everything. But our advice is to take some time now, in the days and weeks prior to travel, to make sure you’ve given adequate thought about not just what to pack but how.

Our packing guide will help you do just that:

SIZE DOES COUNT

Not all luggage is created equal, and having appropriately sized travel bags is an important start. Think carefully about how much weight you plan to add to your bag and whether it needs to be checked in or taken on board with you. Avoiding checked-in luggage makes departures and arrivals speedier and more convenient, but it doesn’t work if you’re away for longer periods. You might also need room on return to include items you have bought on your travels – so leave space for that. Hard-shelled luggage affords more protection to your personal items and is less likely to be squashed or broken in transit.

Most airlines restrict check-in luggage to one piece not exceeding 7kg and have thankfully standardised the dimensions to 56cm h X 36cm w X 23cm deep. In addition, you are generally also allowed one additional personal item on board – this can be a laptop, handbag or similar if it’s small and can fit under the seat in front of you.  

Depending on the airline, destination and class of travel, passengers can check in 1 to 3 bags. The piece system (i.e. more than one checked bag) generally applies to flights to/from the Americas. For most other destinations, specific baggage allowances are applied. For example, economy class passengers can check in 1 piece not exceeding 20 – 23kg, business class passengers are allowed between 30 – 35kg and first-class travellers are allowed a total of 40kg.

It is advisable to check the allocation for your specific trip before packing.

FORGET THE KITCHEN SINK

Try to avoid over-packing. You probably don’t need as many clothes as you think you do and remember that you will probably be the one dragging heavy bags on and off public transport or between hotels. Roll up your clothes and lay them in rows to maximise space and reduce creasing. Clear, smaller plastic bags and pouches that go inside your main luggage are also very helpful and let you see exactly what you’re looking for at a glance. These are particularly useful in your carry-on bag to avoid delays when passing through airport security.  

POWER IT UP

Regardless of where in the world you travel, having access to a power supply is essential and should be something you think about carefully. A fully charged power bank is a handy item for travel duration in case you can’t find a power point at the airport. Research what plug fittings are applicable in your country of destination and also in your transit location, and carry them in your onboard bag. A small backup travel light is also a useful standby for areas where the power supply might be temperamental.   

THE DEVIL IS IN THE DETAIL

In addition to your regular toiletries, there are some practical smaller items you might consider including, depending on your destination. Think about a mini sewing kit for loose buttons and tears, a few cable ties to use as emergency travel locks, a waterproof laundry bag for damp or smelly clothing, bug spray, extra coat hangers if you have the space and maybe even a spare belt and shoelaces.

GOOD HEALTH MEANS HAPPY TRAVELS

Carry your own small water bottle to stay hydrated. Include a light-sealed snack of some sort to stay fuelled in case of delays in locations that don’t offer convenience stores at all hours. Give careful consideration to your medical needs. Chronic medications and prescription drugs should be clearly labelled and accompanied by a script or a doctor’s letter to appease customs. Take note of the airline requirements about liquid on board and refer to prohibited items per country to avoid trouble. Don’t joke with customs officials – they have a serious job to do! By following these tips, you can pack efficiently and reduce stress on your travels. Remember, the key to effective packing is planning, organisation, and considering your destination’s specific needs.