{"id":12952,"date":"2019-10-07T09:00:14","date_gmt":"2019-10-07T13:00:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.expedia-aarp.com\/blog\/?p=12952"},"modified":"2019-10-07T13:39:34","modified_gmt":"2019-10-07T17:39:34","slug":"how-to-pack-light","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.expedia-aarp.com\/blog\/how-to-pack-light\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Pack Light"},"content":{"rendered":"
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It can feel like every time you book a flight, there are new checked bag restrictions. Spaces get smaller and freebies get scarce. So let\u2019s get strategic! Check out our tips for how to pack light so you can enjoy your trip without adding on fees.<\/p>\n

Get the Right Size Suitcase\u00a0<\/h2>\n

Sometimes the container itself is the solution. Take a look at your current suitcase. If it\u2019s a mammoth beast, it could be causing you extra fees with its weight and width. Consider a smaller carry-on suitcase or checked bag with good wheel support. Suitcases with different sections can help you stay organized as well. Or get a bag that will fit all major airline size restrictions. You can find specific size dimensions on each airline\u2019s website.<\/p>\n

Package Cubes\u00a0<\/h2>\n

Want to know the secret for how to pack light for a trip? Packing cubes. These cubes are often made of mesh cloth and designed to fit in your bag like Tetris\u00ae. Big items like clothes can go into larger cubes, while socks, shoes, and toiletries get their own smaller cubes. This can help you decide what\u2019s absolutely necessary to bring and keep things organized, too. Plus, it makes it easier to unpack when you\u2019re back home.<\/p>\n

Roll Your Clothes\u00a0<\/h2>\n

It\u2019s the classic question: Is it better to fold or roll your clothes in your suitcase? Experts say that rolling will help you squeeze in more space. This is especially true if you have lighter fabrics. Most major hotels have irons and ironing boards if anything gets wrinkled on the journey.<\/p>\n

Don\u2019t Pack Every Type of Shoe\u00a0<\/h2>\n

Shoes are among the bulkiest items you can pack. While it\u2019s tempting to bring a dozen shoes for all occasions, limit yourself to the three-shoe rule. There are the shoes you\u2019ll wear while traveling (the bulkiest of the options), something dressier, and something athletic.\u00a0This is especially helpful if you\u2019re traveling with a carry-on vs. a checked bag.<\/p>\n

Wear Your Bulkiest Items <\/h2>\n

Even if you\u2019re traveling from a warm destination, wear your heaviest clothes to the airport. This will lighten up your suitcase tremendously. You can always slip off your jacket once you\u2019ve gone through security or use it as a blanket on the plane. Additionally, coat pockets can be used as storage. You can easily fit in gloves, a scarf, or even a hat.\u00a0This extra space can come in handy later when your suitcase is full of souvenirs.<\/p>\n

Empty Your Purse Before You Travel\u00a0<\/h2>\n

Ok, ladies, let\u2019s talk about purses for a second. How heavy is yours? You don\u2019t need to bring every house key and bottle of hand cream with you on vacation. Make a point to empty your purse before packing. This will make things lighter as you walk around during your trip. Plus, you can fit extra toiletries, socks, e-readers, and more in your purse.\u00a0This is also helpful if you\u2019re planning a solo trip<\/a>. You won\u2019t want extra knickknacks weighing you down on tours and adventures.<\/p>\n

Use What\u2019s There\u00a0<\/h2>\n

When you want to know how to pack light, it\u2019s all about what you can leave behind. Most of what you\u2019ll need\u2014for toiletries at least\u2014will already be there for you. Most hotels will have you covered for shampoo, conditioner, and lotions. You can also call ahead to see if they have a hairdryer in-room. For everything else, travel size products do make a difference. For instance, a regular hairbrush might take up 10 inches of space in your suitcase, whereas a travel hairbrush will only take up 2 inches.<\/p>\n

Get ready to travel! By packing a lighter load, you\u2019ll feel a lot more nimble to zip around the world\u2019s airports. Have fun out there.<\/p>\n

Now that you have your lighter suitcase, here are some top places to stay for the night: <\/em><\/p>\n