How to Pack a Suitcase (2)

So continuing with the best way to pack a suitcase and certainly the best way to minimise the horror of unpacking a badly organized suitcase when you return! For really small items roll them into small bundles that can squeeze into leftover spaces. Items such as underwear and accessories can be packed using mesh laundry bags, which will save on space. Again these are ideal to use to store all your laundry and other items when returning… saving more time when you get home because you can then sort your washing in your bag when you pack to come home and just place in the machine when you return!

Put all folded items in the middle layer in an effort to keep them folded, and try to avoid taking bulky, large items altogether – instead layer your clothes – easier when you get there and for packing too.

Place items you need to be kept flat at the very bottom and remember never pack valuables or items you need to get to quickly in your suitcase. Carry these with you in a secure bag or Money Belt. This one is very strong and has an adjustable belt and soft comfort backing, use it to store all your valuables safely.

Of course for the ultimate help when packing a suitcase use Vaccum Seal Bags - such as the Travel Vacuum Seal Bag Pack (2 bags per pack). This is a brilliant product for travelling because it reduces bullk in your suitcase dramatically!

Each pack contains two bags (Large and Medium) which are re-usable clear sealing bags, and all the air can be squeezed out by rolling the bag up. The clothes will retain their original shape and size.

The bag sizes are Large : 28 x 18" (70 x 45cm) and Medium : 24" x 15" (60 x 38cm). Brilliant when you realise you're taking back more than you went with!! Now things just got a lot easier!

So now you’ve packed your suitcase… is there anything else you need to think about before you leave? I’ll run through any essential items that you may otherwise forget later in the week!

How to Pack a Suitcase

Most people think of packing a suitcase as an enjoyable task, building excitement for the holiday… likewise unpacking it is completely the opposite. Whether going on a business trip or on holiday the way you pack your suitcase at the beginning will determine how painful this job is going to be when you return! So in an effort to make sure you start out correctly, here are a couple of tips to reduce the unpleasant task of unpacking!

Firstly, take only what you need! Obvious, but think about it before you begin packing and you’ll find you have more space for items you do actually need! Don’t put heavy items at the bottom – putting them on top of your clothes minimises creases, because your clothes won’t move around so much within the bag.

Fold clothing properly! The best way to fold top is to fold the sleeves into the torso and then in half so you end up with a rectangle. Make this really quick and easy with a Clothing Folder such as the Flip and Fold Shirt Folder. Designed to help you fold and pack Shirts, Blouses and Sweaters easily makes it ideal for travel and storage.

Use bags to keep items such as shirts looking good. Shirt Bags protect shirts, blouses, t-shirts and other items and are ideal to use for your laundry on the return trip! These are strong and durable bags, useful for storing many other items in your suitcase too!

I always use a Shoe Wash Bag when packing shoes - not only protects your shoes, but also your clothing! Make sure you stuff socks in shoes to make use of otherwise wasted space.

More on this tomorrow when I'll go through how to make sure all your other items are packed properly!