10 packing hacks to pack cleverly and avoid creases on your summer vacation
From using packing cubes to packing an extra bag for all those souvenir purchases, try these 10 clever packing tips.
Packing can be a nightmare. It takes hours of meticulous planning, just to find your clothes creased and mangled when you unpack the other side of your journey.
Good Housekeeping’s frequent flyers have listed their top 10 tips. If you follow the simple hacks as well as pack a few essentials, you’re guaranteed to have a fabulously organized break.
10 essential packing hacks
Roll your clothes
It works! Lay tops facedown, fold in sleeves, and roll from the bottom up. For pants, put the legs together and roll from the waist down. Pack clothing first and then fit the odd-shaped things around them.
Pack the right fabrics
If you’re going to pack crisp cotton, you’re in for a little wrinkling. Try to opt for softer cotton and light knits which should come out of your case relatively crease-free.
Pack clever
If you’re heading to a wedding, a special occasion, or a business dinner, make sure you have the clothes you want to wear at the top of the case. They will be less likely to wrinkle.
Take a load off
Place heavier items such as books and boots on the wheelie end of your case. It helps keep the bag stable as well as stopping other things from getting crushed.
Layer clothes
Save the plastic bags from your dry cleaning and use them to protect the delicate items in your packing. They will also help your clothing slide and help reduce wrinkling.
Packing cubes
Consider a set of these handy cubes. They come in various sizes and are ingenious when it comes to keeping everything separate.
Pack a separate bag
Most of us buy souvenirs on tour and instead of squashing them into your case, pull out your separate bag which you’ve packed flat, and carry it on your return flight.
Take a mini iron
Not all hotels have irons so if you’re a stickler for crease-free clothing, buy a little mini iron or even a steamer.
Pack medications in your hand luggage
Even if you’re going with hand luggage only, you may well have to check it in at the gate. Keep your important medications in your handbag.
Carry a reusable water bottle
Airports are more than happy to have you take an empty bottle through immigration. Once inside the terminal, you can fill it up at a water station and it’s a greener option than having to buy one.
