Packing Tips for Your Suitcase
Check the weather and culture of the country. To pack your belongings correctly for the trip, you need to know what kind of weather awaits you at your destination. Also, inquire about the dress code. For example, in Thailand or Cambodia, you will need to cover your shoulders and knees before visiting a temple. Sandals and flip-flops may prevent you from entering a decent restaurant or bar.
Speed up the baggage claim process. Waiting for your luggage to appear on the conveyor can be extremely exhausting. Experienced travelers know how to expedite this process. If you are pressed for time, study the airport map in advance and try to travel light. If you have fragile luggage, be sure to inform the check-in desk. In this case, it will be handled carefully and placed on top of the other luggage, meaning it will be the first to appear on the conveyor belt.
Choose a bright suitcase. It is difficult to find a black suitcase when retrieving your luggage and to determine if it is lost or not. Choose an unusual suitcase or backpack for your travels – with bright patterns, patches, or designs. Take a photo of it before your trip in case it gets lost. If you only have a regular suitcase, don't hesitate to attach a colorful tag, sticker, or ribbon to it.
Pack cosmetics securely. If you want to limit yourself to carry-on luggage, you will need to reduce the amount of liquid you take with you, including gels and shampoos. You can buy solid (dry) cosmetics to pass through airport security without having to throw anything away. However, if you still want to take shampoo and gel with you, use Ziploc bags.
Take the essentials in your carry-on. It is best to pack essential items in your carry-on in case your main luggage gets lost along the way. Don't forget to bring: a sleep mask and earplugs, deodorant, chargers, sunglasses and sunscreen, mosquito repellent, a reusable water bottle, a pillowcase to separate dirty and clean clothes, and fabric conditioner to keep your clothes smelling fresh.
You can pack for a two-week trip in your carry-on if you skip unnecessary outfits.
Follow the popular rule of 5–4–3–2–1: 5 pieces of outerwear, 4 sets of underwear, 3 accessories, 2 pairs of shoes, 1 swimsuit.
Choose neutral-colored clothing so that your wardrobe items can be mixed and matched.
Don't bring cosmetics that will be available at the hotel, such as shampoo, gel, or soap.
Leave room in your bag for souvenirs! It's best to buy souvenirs away from popular tourist spots – they will be significantly cheaper there. You can also eat at places favored by locals. This will allow you to try local cuisine and eat for less.
Roll your clothes instead of folding them: this will save space in your suitcase.
Place small items inside your shoes. To prevent your shoes from dirtying the rest of your clothes, you can put a shower cap over them.
Don't bring more clothes than you need for two weeks. If you have a longer trip, you can visit a local laundromat.
Water. Of course, while traveling, you have long been drinking only bottled water. We recommend using it to brush your teeth and rinse vegetables and fruits, especially during the adjustment period to new conditions.