Packing Tips from a Professional Packer

I’ve traveled around the world a handful of times, and had all sorts of travel surprises. But, one thing I have learned is that (assuming your luggage arrives with you) a well-packed suitcase is the key to a smooth journey. And, another plus, a well-packed suitcase doesn’t need checking.

I have a few key philosophies to packing that I learned as a flight attendant years ago, and then adjusted as my work demands in a new career became more complicated.

1. The airport is a war zone.  Don’t dress for style, dress for function – with nice pieces that you can use if you have a bag-tastrophe.

2. Only pack what you, yourself, can carry – up and down stairs, through security, and all through the town … you never know when something unexpected will happen.

3. Pack a wardrobe, not outfits, but make sure the wardrobe will make up a few outfits that work for lounging, business, and going out on the town. As long as those three activities  covered, you can make your options work many different ways and your gear won’t limit your adventure.

4. When you get home, edit and evaluate.  Pull out the list of things you packed and cross off anything you didn’t need.  Next time you’re packing evaluate if you still want the item just in case or if you’ll be just fine without it.

That said, click on the first picture below for a few more tips and travel hacks I’ve figured out.

Slide a universal packing list into a sheet protector, and tie it to the outside suitcase pocket. It slips nicely into the pocket waiting for the next trip.

Store travel toiletries together for easy access. When you return home, refill bottles from full-sized products that you prefer.

Put travel sachets inside shoes to keep the suitcase fresh smelling. Pack shoes inside protective shoe bags (or pillow cases).

Stage travel clothes together before packing. This helps with the next step: editing.

Lay out each outfit with all the necessary pieces. Look for opportunities to mix and match and eliminate redundancy.

Put a complete outfit on one hanger. Button all buttons and smooth creases to eliminate wrinkles.

Tuck dryer sheets in the underarms of jackets, this will keep shirts and jackets smelling fresh.

Create a collection, a color theme among your clothes will make all pieces work together – giving you more options.

Choose a travel outfit that is wrinkle resistant with no pockets, zippers, or unwieldy accessories. This will make security much faster.