It seems everyone has a tip for how to make the most of the space you have in your suitcase. No one knows better, though, than flight attendants. Many of them use the Flight Crew Series Rollaboard from Travelpro.
Here are a few of their expert packing tips, as shared with Condé Nast Traveler magazine.
Travelpro Crew 10 with suiter
Heavy items such as toiletries and shoes take up a lot of space, but where you put them in your Rollaboard will determine your ease of maneuvering the bag through the airport. If you place your toiletries and shoes in the bottom of the case nearest the wheel base, you’ll be surprised at the difference it makes. By doing this it keeps the center of gravity low and it avoids heavier items falling into your clothing when the bag is being pulled upright. Flip flops and some sandals are by far the most versatile shoe with the smallest packing “footprint.” They go with many casual outfits and can serve as slippers in the hotel.
Don’t use a garment bag. Generally, they don’t fit in the overhead bins well, and closet space on planes is reserved for use by first class passengers first. If you insist, most likely it will be checked and then you’ll have wrinkled clothes when you arrive.
Swimsuits take up no space and the option of catching a few rays, swimming a few laps or soaking in the hot tub could mean getting a good night’s sleep. Another essential, versatile item they recommended was a pashmina type scarf. These are large enough to serve as a blanket on a chilly plane or as an alternative to a pillow in a pinch.
Eliminate all but the essentials when packing toiletries and cosmetics. Take advantage of hotel amenities for soap, shampoo, and conditioner, and pack makeup wipes so you don’t have to pack a liquid cleanser. Anything else you forget can be purchased at the hotel gift shop. To keep your clothes looking wrinkle free without using an iron, pack a small bottle of wrinkle reducer spray. It works wonders.
Outlet extenders are another wonderful way to increase space in your suitcase. They allow you to charge multiple electronics at once. Just bring the USB cords for each device and leave their bulky plugs at home.
Follow these veterans’ advice and see how it changes your next travel experience. Or if you have your own pro-level tips, leave us a comment below, on our Facebook page, or on Twitter at @TravelproIntl.