How To Pack Better – Lighten Your Load With These Tips From Tradewinds

We often leave things like packing until the last minute. However, our tendency to grab now and think about it later can lead to certain disaster upon arrival to our destination. Realizing, of course, to late, that we have forgotten many items and have packed items unnecessary to our trip, the only way to avoid this disaster from occurring is to plan early. Take advantage of tips on travel including how you can better pack with tips from Tradewinds Travel Club.

• TSA rules – If you are planning on taking a portion of your trip by air, knowing the rules and regulations in regards to TSA and your airline will help you plan what to and not to bring with you. TSA offers a website with more detailed information in reference to your carry on luggage. Rules such as 3-1-1 and prohibited items will simplify many of your decisions in regards to your luggage.

• Toiletries - Creatures of habit, none of us likes to use products for our skin or hair that we are not sure are going to be right for us. For this reason, most everyone packs their own items such as shampoo, gel, face wash, shampoo makeup and other products. If you are planning on traveling light, you will want to learn how to better accomplish this as it can take up much of your valuable space. Instead of packing whole bottles, instead purchase small refillable containers and then fill them with your products. If you traveling with only a carry on, these products must all fit in 1, 1 quart bag and be less than 3 oz to be allowed on the plane.

• Clothing – This is one of the biggest areas for improvement for many travelers. Rather than packing for space, we pack whole outfits. The problem with this is we are often packing too much. Rather than packing whole outfits, pack shirts, pants/shorts/skirts that will fit with more than one outfit. Color coordinate your whole wardrobe and save space.

• Extras – Often we simply do not know what we will need. From alarm clocks to towels, bathrobes, or even some of our toiletries, many of these items are offered as amenities as our accommodations making it a waste of space in our bags and taking up extra room. Know more about your accommodations and plan what you can actually leave at home and save space.

• Valuables – This is less about space and more about being wise. If you luggage is lost or damaged and you have decided to bring a valuable item which is also lost or damaged, the restrictions on baggage claims may lead you to lose out. You may not only not be able to replace the items but may not be able to get the full replacement value either.

Choose carefully and plan ahead for what you bring with you on your next vacation and make better use of your time and money. Become a more informed traveler and learn more about travel with news, advice and tips to help you from your friends at Tradewinds Travel Club.