Today, I’m going to be talking about getting the most out of your limited packing space. This isn’t just about cramming more stuff into your suitcase; it’s about making smart choices that save you stress and give you room to breathe when you unzip that bag at your destination.
If you’ve ever faced the challenge of fitting everything you need into a small carry-on or backpack, you know the trick isn’t just knowing what to pack, but HOW to pack. And, If you are anything like me you loose patience with packing after about 10 minutes of trying to get everything to fit it is always good to outsource this task to a more qualified, organised person. Luckily for me my husband is an expert in this field (you should see the ways he stacks a fridge after the weekly shop!) His top tips for packing are making sure your more used/day to day items are easily accessible and near the top of your packing, heavier items should be worn whilst travelling to your destination and always roll your clothes neatly before putting them in your luggage, It not only saves space, but it also minimizes wrinkles. For those willing to take the extra step, compression bags work wonders for bulky items like jackets.
But, why is this so important? Because whether you’re trying to avoid extra baggage fees, traveling to multiple destinations, or simply aiming to be more mobile and organized, mastering the art of efficient packing can make all the difference.
Next, you’re going to find out about selecting the right luggage and making a packing list that’s less about wishful thinking and more about practicality. Because, when it comes to traveling light and smart, every cubic inch counts.
Strategies for Maximizing Packing Space
In my opinion, choosing the RIGHT LUGGAGE can make all the difference. The size and design should meet airline standards, yet provide ample space for your belongings. Consider features like expandability, multiple compartments, and durability.
For small children I recommend their own carry on luggage, something that will engage them with the packing process and give them some understanding of what can and can’t be packed. We invested in a Trunki when the fairy was three and she still uses it five years later. There are plenty of different options available depending on your child and their age.
Whilst I may not be the most organised person I do enjoy writing lists! Especially packing lists, it makes me excited writing out exactly what we need to take whilst dreaming of being on our next adventure. It is also a good way to prevent overpacking. List out essentials bespoke to your child as well as your trip and tick them off as you pack. This also gives me a sense of achievement when I start to see my list slowly getting smaller!
If you want to further optimize packing, let’s not overlook packing cubes. They’re like drawers for your suitcase, categorizing your items and making it easier to find what you need without uprooting everything else. Whilst backpacking round South East Asia we used packing cubes to separate our clothes and as somewhere to put the laundry. Having clothing and accessories in different sections made finding things so much easier for us.
When it comes to clothing: go for multipurpose. A sarong that doubles as a blanket, or footwear that’s comfortable for both treks and casual outings. By selecting items that can be used in multiple scenarios, you spare room for other items – or just enjoy the additional space.
I’ve collected tips from seasoned travellers and packing professionals, and one piece of advise I try to stick with is the 5,4,3,2,1 rule. This means we pack, 5 pairs of underwear, 4 tops (a mix of long and short sleeves), 3 bottoms, 2 pairs of shoes and 1 hat. This is just for your essentials, depending on your destination you may want to take some extra items such as swimwear and evening wear. This is usually enough to last around a week or until you can find somewhere you can do your laundry.
This being said, packing with a baby/toddler is always going to be more tricky as spills and accidents are bound to happen. Soo many times we have run out of clothes for our fairy and have had to make a mad dash to the nearest shop/market to buy her something to wear. However, as baby/toddler clothes are generally smaller than an adults its usually OK to add a few extra tops, bottoms and underwear in your suitcase!
Avoiding Common Over-Packing Pitfalls
Getting the hang of packing efficiently can be a GAME CHANGER for your travels. It’s not just about saving space; it’s about understanding the fine line between necessity and excess. Here’s a closer look at how to steer clear of the common traps that lead to over-packing.
First off, clarify what you need versus what you want. This might seem straightforward, but trust me, the distinction can blur when you’re staring at an open suitcase. To nail this, think about your daily routine. What items are non-negotiables? Stick to these and avoid the allure of ‘might-use’ gadgets and ‘just-in-case’ outfits.
Consider the climate and your planned activities. Will you be lounging on beaches or trekking through mountains? Each scenario requires a different set of gear. By tailoring your pack to your itinerary, you avoid hauling around dead weight.
Resist the ‘just in case’ syndrome. You’re likely not going to need three different evening outfits for a weekend getaway or multiple pairs of shoes for a beech holiday. Choose versatile pieces that can be dressed up or down, or footwear adaptable to multiple occasions.
Another point I want to mention when packing is to remember pretty much any place in the world now has most things you need. We like to visit the local shops and markets to pick up a new top or a sarong for the beach. This is also a nice souvenir of your trip and, providing you go for something that is of good quality, will last until your next adventure! Things like nappies, medicines, toys, sunglasses and hats are all accessible in most places, although the brands or quality may not be the same as you are used to back home. With this being said, in an emergency its always good to know you won’t be totally stuck! One item I do recommend bringing from home is sun cream. This is an essential item for any hot climate and unfortunately, in our experience, the sun creams we have found whilst travelling have not been as good as the ones we get back home.
And remember, before zipping up that suitcase, do a last sweep. Lay everything out, and be ruthless in weeding out non-essentials. Ask yourself, ‘Will I use this enough to justify the space it’s taking up?’ If the answer’s no, leave it behind.
Happy travels and revel in the freedom a lighter suitcase brings!