10 Holiday Packing Hacks that really work!
Author: Tima Maherali, Senior Content Creator
Are you the kind of globetrotter who just can't resist packing a dozen pairs of shoes or buying a truckload of new holiday outfits and toiletries only to find there’s no space to bring back souvenirs? Well, fret not! We've got the ultimate packing hacks to ensure you sail through the mundane task of packing and keep your suitcase zip intact while saving some serious cash.
Edit Your Wardrobe
Before you start piling in your holiday outfits, pause for a moment. Create a thoughtful selection of items that coordinate effortlessly. For instance, three tops to one pair of neutral bottoms always works. Ditch at least a quarter of what’s left and try to swap out bulky or one-time-wear items. Keep what makes you feel good and things you can't do without. (Pro tip: Never skimp on underwear or socks, which can easily be shoved into shoes.) This ensures you pack just right and leaves room for those cherished souvenirs.
Embrace Packing Cubes
Invest in packing cubes and say goodbye to those haphazardly folded clothes! Roll instead of folding then tuck them into these lightweight organizer bags. They not only compress your garments, keep them crease free and save space, but also help you stay impeccably organized and save time. Either prep entire outfits in each one or dedicate one bag to each clothing category. They’re especially handy when sharing a case as different colours can be picked for everyone. Simply transfer them into drawers when you arrive and when returning home just zip them up and pop back into your case!
Ziplock Zen
Ziplock bags are your new packing pals! Store everything from your favourite tea bags to medication pills and toothpaste to shampoo in them to cut down on the weight of heavy pill bottles as well as prevent leaks and stains on your clothing or electronics. It's a budget-friendly, fail-proof solution, which always comes in handy for keeping your cosmetics and liquids readily bagged for airport security checks as well as for saving your mobile from sand and storing those wet bikinis.
Vacuum-Pack It
Another way to save oodles of space and stay organised, is to roll and pack your holiday wardrobe into vacuum compression bags - the travellers’ budget friendly secret weapon! Once you place your clothes inside, seal the bag and pump or squeeze out the excess air. These are a real game-changer for those bulkier items you can’t leave behind on winter breaks. They’re also a live saver when you’ve bought too much and need some extra space on the way back, so taking a few with you is a must! Just make sure you opt for ones that can be used without a hoover. (Pro tip: use these on holiday to store your dirty laundry and vacuum pack the lot when it’s time to fly back).
Get Carry-On Ready
Keep your carry-on bag permanently pre-packed and you'll be halfway to packing paradise when the time comes! Essentials like your neck pillow, earplugs, sleep mask, lip balm, pain relievers, travel sickness bands, pocket tissues, antibacterial wipes, a clear, compact zip pouch for documents and passports and a lightweight pen should always reside there. You can also use this valuable space to store your air tags, chargers, travel plugs, suitcase scales, mini toiletries and insect repellent to avoid frantic searches when packing for your next spontaneous escape.
Lighten The Load
While splurging on a designer suitcase won't guarantee an upgrade, opting for a lightweight expanding option is a savvy choice. Did you know hardshell suitcases can add up to four kilos before you even start packing? Pack your handbag and use a small body pouch with a lightweight rucksack or a soft 4 wheeled carry on with an outside pocket where you can conveniently store your laptop. Don’t forget, airlines have varying baggage allowances, so double check weight and size limits to avoid costly surprises.
Weigh It Up
Dodge those extra baggage fees by weighing your luggage before leaving home. Pack your travel scales to keep tabs on your bag's weight on both legs of your journey to stay within limits. If you're getting close, ditch the bulky toiletries and fill up some mini containers with what you have at home, consider substituting or wearing your heaviest items or cut back on your wardrobe in the first place and find peace of mind in the feeling of travelling lightly!
Avoid Tempting Toiletries
It’s key to stop and think about what you’ll actually use on your holiday and make sure you get your musts ahead of time – not all products are affordable and easy to find abroad. Hitting the ski slopes? You'll definitely need a high SPF sunscreen and lip balm. For a camping escapade do you really need your entire makeup arsenal? But before going on a spree for your travel-friendly sized goodies, dig out those samples you’ve been saving and put them to use. Opt for multipurpose products and top up refillable travel bottles with your existing supplies wherever possible - these stop you taking too much and are also fab for saving money and the environment. (Don’t forget to label with a smear-proof pen!)
Take the Time to Tag
Losing luggage is every travellers’ nightmare. Equip and keep tab on your belongings with an AirTag. While they can’t track moving objects like bags on luggage belts and they may not necessarily speed up getting your luggage back, these little gadgets certainly offer peace of mind and streamline filing a travel insurance claim, should the worst happen. Just ensure your air buddies have enough battery life before being placed safely inside your bags.
Sneaky Pillow Packing
Still running out of room for those last-minute additions? Here's a sneaky hack: stuff your neck pillow or cushion case with the extra clothes that won't fit in your luggage. It's a tried-and-true trick that often goes unnoticed, even by the flight crew!
Ready to jet-set with confidence and style? Now you’ve mastered the art of smart packing all you have to do it pick your next dream getaway and enjoy some stress-free, savvy travelling. For some holiday inspo, take a peek at our latest deals…Bon voyage!