Heading
out on a summer trip should be fun and enjoyable, but packing for that trip
stresses many of us out.
Did I remember everything? Is the suitcase too heavy?
How can I maximize space?
Sharon
Schweitzer,
J.D. is a cross-cultural consultant, an international protocol expert and the
founder of Protocol & Etiquette Worldwide.
She says packing
efficiently saves space, time, and ensures no necessary belongings are left
behind.
“Like any art
form—preparation and thought go into a well packed bag,” Schweitzer says. “Before you pack, create a list of events to be attended, adventure activities,
work and evening gatherings requiring professional or evening attire.
Once you’ve selected clothes to wear, remove one outfit. Let’s face it; no one
wears everything they pack. There’s always something that can be cut. Select
more tops than trousers or skirts because you can easily wear bottoms twice.”
Sharon’s
tips on how to be a better packer:
1. Suitcase:
Lightweight and
durable are the criteria to keep in mind. Unless you’re headed to an extended
vacation (2 weeks plus), a carry-on will alleviate travel stress and save
money. Very few airlines allow a free checked bag. Checking a bag limits
options if a flight is cancelled or changed.
2. Luggage Scale:
It is wise to invest
in a residential luggage scale if you must check a bag. Exceeding the 50-pound
limit is detrimental to your wallet. Making sure you are under the weight limit
prior to airport arrival is reassuring.
3. Photograph & Tag:
On both carry-on and
checked bags, photograph your luggage, pack a business card or ID tag inside
and include an external bag tag. When five identical bags slide down the
luggage chute, identify yours with a distinguishing ribbon, sticker or luggage
tag.
4. Clothing:
Invest in
wrinkle-free, lightweight clothing with a similar color palette for layering,
easy mixing and matching. Place an extra dryer or scented sheet inside your bag
to reduce unpleasant odors. Pack sturdy, several collapsible travel bags for
purchases. Don’t mark yourself as a robbery target. Expensive jewelry, family
heirlooms and watches stay home.
5. Roll, Roll, Roll:
Rolling your clothes
saves space while preventing creases and wrinkles. After rolling, use air-compression plastic bags to vacuum extra air. Efficiently
packing the heaviest items (jeans, jackets) at the suitcase bottom. Wrap belts
around the edges of the suitcase to cradle clothing. Fill the suitcase with
lightest clothing at the top (rolling the entire time).
6. Shoes:
Try to limit yourself to three pairs of travel shoes: casual
pair, tennis shoes, and evening/professional shoes. Many experts advise wearing
your heaviest pair on the day of travel to keep suitcase weight low.
Shoes go in shoe bags foot-to-toe, before heavy items, at the very bottom. If
packing shoe soles facing the bag sides, slide shoes into shower caps or clear
plastic bags first. Place socks and small articles into your deodorized shoes to save space.
7. Toiletries:
Purchase travel sized
toiletries under 3.0 ounces, or use destination amenities. Double-bag all necessary
toiletries (liquids, gels) to prevent stains. Place this bag at the very top of
your carry-on for quick retrieval at security if you are not TSA-PreCheck.
8. Technology:
Organize all gadgets,
chargers, and cables in a tech organizer for easy retrieval at security if
questions arise.
Travel tips courtesy
of Sharon
Schweitzer,
J.D.
Please click http://www.protocolww.com/ for more information on best traveling
practices.
Happy Traveling this summer! #Summer2016
