Before going on a flight, most of us get excited about traveling but majorly dread packing. There is something about packing for a trip that stresses us out and makes us want to procrastinate.
The key to successful packing is being thorough and organized, yet being able to make executive decisions on what to leave behind. You might start by making a packing list. Putting your needs in writing makes you less likely to stray from the required list and throw extra stuff in your bag on a whim.
Get Visual
Once you’ve got your list, get the items out of your closet and neatly lay them out on a large surface like your floor or bed. This will give you a great feeling for how much stuff you’re dealing with and whether it will realistically fit in your suitcase. Make a separate pile for items that will go in your carry on luggage.
How to Pack a Suitcase
Most packing experts recommend rolling your clothes to prevent wrinkling and minimize the size of the garments.
- Lay t-shirts, jeans and pants out on the floor. Choose one item to roll first.
- Fold jeans and pants in half lengthwise and fold shirt arms neatly to the back of the shirt.
- Start at the bottom and roll the item up tightly.
If you want to be super-organized, match a rolled shirt with a pair of rolled pants and put the outfit in its own separate plastic bag.
Certain items should not be rolled. Keep dress shirts on hangers in dry cleaning bags to prevent wrinkling. Lay them flat in the suitcase. If you have jackets, dresses, skirts or sweaters that cannot be rolled, lay them at the top of the suitcase, putting the lightest items on top.
If your shoes are dirty, put them in plastic bags to keep them from touching your clean clothes. Stuff your shoes with socks or underwear to maximize space.
Toiletries should be minimal. Use small containers and put all of your toiletries into sealed Ziploc bags to prevent any messes. Place the bags in the center of your suitcase where they won’t get jostled around. If you plan to take any liquids in your carry on luggage, check current TSA regulations.
To prepare for your trip from your Chicago apartment, follow these packing tips and you will a successful packer every time!
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