If you're planning a trip away soon and can't be dealing with the cost of checking on luggage, listen up.
When it comes to packing, there are two types of people. Those who have it down to a fine art, packing multi-functional items of clothing that match with everything and have never had to know the struggle of a burst bottle of travel-size shampoo, and those who break out in a cold sweat at the mere thought of getting their suitcase down from the attic.
If you fall into the second camp (like myself), don't despair. Packing expert and owner of
Dust and Rock Susan Furniss-Radley is here to help, and has shared 10 of her top tips for travelling with just carry on luggage.
1. Plan a rough outfit itinerary before you go
If you know what you’ll be doing each day, you’ll know how many outfits you’ll need for nights out, how many days you’ll spend on the beach, how much walking etc.
2. Limit yourself to two pairs of shoes
Shoes are the things to take up the most space in your case so stick to one or two pairs of shoes. Wear your bulky ones on the plane and slip the smaller pair in your case.
Packing tip number 2: don't go overboard with the shoes. Image via Dust and Rock
3. Get the largest lightweight case allowable
Rules vary between airlines so double check what size allowance you have. While rolling cases are easier if your bag is heavier, backpacks are often much easier to transport over cobblestones and place into overhead lockers.
4. Bring a bag in a bag
Alongside your main piece of luggage bring a large tote that doubles as an airport and beach bag. Inside this bag, pop a slim cross-body bag. This is your everyday bag for your trip.
5. Pack versatile items
Choose layering items and co-ords; all your tops and bottoms should work together giving you max number of options. Day outfits can be transformed to evening appropriate with accessories. Go with neutral colours or a monochrome palette.
6. Use packing cubes
Packing cubes are a lifesaver when you’re using hand luggage only. You can squish so much more into each cube and keeps everything organised.
Packing cubes are your friends for short trips! Image via Dust and Rock
7. Bring an extension cable
Eliminate multiple adaptors and charge your phone, Kindle and use a hair straightener at the same time.
8. Do a mini wash
A fabric refresh is often enough for some items after being worn. A sink and some hotel soap are absolutely fine. Choose lightweight fabrics such as silk, which will dry quickly, and take up less space in your bag.
9. Roll everything
Rolled-up clothes take up less space. Lay out two or three pieces on top of each other on your bed and roll tightly from one end, squeezing air and wrinkles out as you go. Pop them in your packing cubes as you go.
Roll up, roll up. Image via Dust and Rock
10. Use the hotel toiletries
We all have our favourite toiletries but in pursuit of the smug carry-on lifestyle, this is the time to use the ones provided by the hotel. You’ll save vital space.
Make the most of the amenities. Image via Shutterstock
Susan is the owner of small business
Dust and Rock, which provides fashionable and functional products to make travelling easier, including their travel cubes and pocket tote bags.
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