10 Packing Tips to Help you Pack Like a Pro!

We've provided a short, but concise list of relevant tips to help you prepare for your next destination.

#1 Make a packing list Creating a packing list is a fail-safe way to ensure that you never forget to bring something important. Start your packing list a few weeks ahead of schedule to ensure you don't forget an item.

#2 Roll, don't fold Tightly rolled clothes take up less space than folded ones. Plus, they're less prone to getting wrinkles from fold creases.

#3 Always know your airline's baggage fee policy While most international flights permit travelers to check at least one bag, the majority of U.S. carriers charge $50 or more for bags checked on domestic flights.

#4 Follow the TSA's 3-1-1 bottle rule You are allowed to bring a quart-sized bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes through the checkpoint. These are limited to 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per item. This is also known as the 3-1-1 liquids rule.

#5 Know the personal item carry-on policy for your airline It's standard for airlines to permit each traveler to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item onboard the plane. The personal item is subject to specific size requirements (which vary by airline), but an item like a purse, laptop bag, or backpack is generally acceptable.

#6 For extended trips wash your clothes on the road Our advice; purchase a  small package of laundry soap sheets. It's compact and goes a long way! You can easily wash clothes in a sink or tub in your hotel room or vacation home. If you don't want to spend time washing your clothes, you can always use your hotel's laundry service.

#7 Pack dual-purpose items when possible Pack pants that can be worn when trekking or walking, but also worn to a nice restaurant. Same with shirts; pack multi-purpose shirts appropriate for casual, more formal or business use.

#8 Pack to wear clothes in layers A scarf goes a long way and can add warmth to a sweater or jacket. Take a packable jacket that you can layer clothes underneath for additional warmth when needed.

#9 Always carry-on essential items when you can Your passport, identification, money, credit cards, jewelry, electronics, and other valuables should always be brought onto the plane with you. You don't want to get to your destination to find out your checked bag is lost! And worse yet, your passport was inside!

#10 Purchase and use packing folders and cubes Companies such as Lewis & Clark and Travelon manufacture convenient packing folders and packing cubes that help you pack light and compact. Shop these products in our "Travel Accessories" menu.

Bonus Tip Remember to pack the appropriate adaptor(s) when traveling to another country. Nothing is more frustrating than realizing you can't charge your phone or tablet because your plug will not fit into the wall outlet. While most small electronic devices such as laptops/tablets and cell phones have dual voltage plugs today*, each country requires different adaptors to fit into the wall. You can shop them in our "Travel Accessories" menu. 

* For safety it's always helpful to double-check the product manual or contact the product manufacturer.