WHILE going on a holiday is a very exciting time, packing your case can be quite a tedious, stressful job.
Especially since there are so many restrictions on luggage from airlines nowadays – from baggage sizes, weights and expensive prices.
So it pays to make sure you know how to pack your case in the best way to make sure you can bring all your travel essentials with you.
Luckily, one expert has shared their top six space-saving packing hacks to maximise the space in your suitcase.
Whether it’s for a week-long trip in the sun, a few days away for a city break or a quick overnight, they have you covered.
Mike Harvey, Managing Director at 1st Move International, has revealed how you can pack like a pro while avoiding splurging on increased baggage allowance.
Try the KonMari folding technique
This technique quickly went viral on social media after holiday-goers were gobsmacked with its unique folding method.
Instead of laying your clothes out flat, this trick involves folding clothes into compact rectangles.
These then stand upright in the case.
Mike says: “This is a game changer.
“Not only does it save space but it also makes it easier to see and access each item without messing up the rest of the arrangement.”
Use vacuum seal bags to compress bulky clothing
Some of us already use these for storing clothing or items in tight space in our homes, like for things that fit under the bed.
But did you know you could use these for your suitcase, too?
It’s perfect for compressing bigger items like jackets and jumpers into flat packages.
Experts explain: “Simply place your clothes inside the bag, seal it and use a vacuum cleaner to remove the air.
“The result? Airtight packages that take up minimal space in your suitcase.”
Use the space inside your shoes
This is an oldie but goodie – anything that’s small and doesn’t take up too much space can be put inside your shoes.
Although it doesn’t sound like it can make a massive difference, it will maximise the space inside your luggage.
Mike says: “Don’t overlook the empty space inside your shoes.
“Stuff socks, underwear and electronics like shavers inside your shoes to maximise space in your suitcase.
“This has the added benefit of helping your shoes maintain their shape during travel.”
Strategically layer your packing using the Tetris method
Fans of the popular game Tetris will enjoy packing their case using this quirky method.
Experts explain: “Place heavier items like shoes or toiletry bags at the bottom, followed by neatly folded clothes arranged vertically.
“Fill any gaps with smaller items to ensure every inch of your suitcase is put to use.
“As this method helps distribute weight evenly, it prevents your clothes from getting wrinkled during travel.”
Pack multi-use products
Instead of packing numerous different products, why not try taking something that has multiple purposes?
For example, a shampoo and conditioner pre-mixed bottle rather than a bottle of each.
That way you can use less space without forgetting any of your travel essentials.
Mike says: “Anticipate your needs ahead of time and packproducts that serve multiple purposes.
“That way you save on weight and space, without missing out on your essentials.
“A Swiss Army Knife, for example, comes equipped with a bottle opener, so you can enjoy a glass of wine without having to head out to buy a corkscrew after a long day of exploring, scissors for cutting tags off new clothes, and much more!”
PACKING YOUR HAND LUGGAGE
A RECENT study has found that the best technique for pakcing your hand luggage may be the classic folding one, using four different travel bags.
The research, conducted by Which?, said: “The easiest, most time-efficient method triumphed.
“Folding was best in suitcases that opened fully and had square corners.
“In the rucksacks that only unzipped halfway, we had to slide the folded squares of clothing inside.”
While they said this made things “less neat” it was still the best approach to packing the most, calling the verdict “no faff and free”.
However, the study admitted that while rolling left clothes much less creased, and worked in squishy bags, it was a much harder method.
Invest in accessory organisers
These game changers cannot be overstated – not only will they keep all your jewellery from being tangled, but they can all be kept in one place.
Read more on the Scottish Sun
Experts say: “Jewellery and electronic organisers help by keeping your accessories and wires tangle-free and within close reach of each other.
“So you don’t have to rummage through your suitcase to locate one small item.”