It seems like nothing is more aggravating as trying to hustle from gate to gate in an airport with bulky, overstuffed bags. Checking a bag these days can be a nightmare with the fees, the delays, the missed connections, and the lost and damaged items. Sure, you measure to make sure your carry-ons comply with TSA regulations, but that duffel bag feels like it weighs a hundred pounds, the strap is digging into your shoulder, and forget about weaving through a crowd of people carrying that thing. Maybe you should have checked it after all. What a pain!

But is doesn’t have to be this way. Traveling light will take the stress out of you trip, and with a bit of discipline, you can learn to pack more efficiently. Whether you’re going away for a weekend or a month-long business trip, you can get everything you’ll need into a small carry-on bag. Do you notice the professionals whisking by you with their rectangular, rolling bags? They’re onto something. While a great travel bag won’t solve all your bad packing habits, it is square one. First, make sure the bag is the correct size for a carry-on. While all airlines vary somewhat, a carry-on bag should not weigh more than 35 pounds and should be able to fit into a space that is about 20x13x9. It’s amazing how heavy 35 pounds can feel when you’re tired and have been schlepping it around all morning. Look for a light, sturdy bag with some give. A too-rigid shell will really limit what you will be able to pack and will add unnecessary weight. Also, many rolling bags have special compartments for shoes, which will keep your clothes free of dirt. Take advantage of this space by stowing the chargers for your electronics here as well.

Now for the contents: when you opt to bring clothes in a single color family you do yourself two favors. Getting dressed is easy since all your clothes will match, and you will be able to bring less clothing, since you can make so many different outfit combinations. Try to stick with lightweight fast-drying fabrics, and note that darker colors and patterns disguise stains more readily (bring on the burgundy if you’re touring wine country). A cashmere Pashmina scarf can serve as a blanket or shawl on chilly flights, and can dress up an outfit of basic blacks. If you will need boots where you’re going, wear them en route, rather than packing them. The same goes for heavy coats. If you’re worried about rain, try to find a light windbreaker that doubles as a raincoat. For shoes, it all depends on your destination, but you should never need more than two pairs. Try to pick sandals and dress shoes that are comfortable to walk in so they’ll serve double duty.

While the 3 fluid ounces rule on commercial flights may seem like a setback, it is actually a boon to all travelers, as it eliminates the folly of tossing in a full-size can of shaving cream at the last minute. Nowadays, you can pick up sets of small-scale toiletries packed in a clear bag, and you’ve got your shampoo, conditioner, facial cleanser, body wash, shave gel, and lotion in one place, taking up less space than a shoe. If you absolutely must bring electric styling products, consider travel models, which are smaller, feature retractable cords, and even fold up for storage.

Finally, streamlining your packing takes time and practice. Consider typing a list of everything you might need to take with you on a trip, scrutinize it and edit it, then follow it to the letter. If you keep at it, you will travel happier.

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Category: Advice
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