I don’t think the early nineties hip hop group House of Pain was singing about luggage problems, but that song has been going through my head ever since I started to pack my suitcase for a trip to San Antonio for the Texas Library Association’s Annual Conference.
I am in no way an expert traveler, but I am pretty good at researching random topics, and I know that there is no problem that can’t be better understood after a trip to the library.
That said, I sifted through all the information I could find at the library and put together a top ten list that helped me get ready for my trip. Here is a list of the suggestions that I found most helpful (in no particular order).
No Pain Packing Hacks
-
Limit Your Shoe Selection: Shoes occupy a lot of real estate in your suitcase, so try to limit yourself to a few pairs of versatile shoes that can be worn with multiple outfits. Also, pack your socks and smaller items inside your shoes – no wasted space! - Use Shoe Bags. This way, you won’t get your clean clothes marred by a dirty pair of shoes when you squeeze them closed. The bags can also be used for dirty or wet clothes in a pinch.
- Pack Dual-Purpose Items: Choose clothing and accessories that can serve multiple purposes. Chances are you already know how to do this. Think about all the times you dress accordingly for multiple events in a day when you can’t change your clothes.
- Choose the Right Suitcase: Wheels, Wheels, Wheels! Unless you are backpacking across Europe, get yourself something with wheels. You will thank me for this later. Other desirable qualities in a suitcase include durability, compression straps and multiple compartments to help you organize your belongings more efficiently.
- Pack Wrinkle-Resistant Clothing: Choose clothing made from wrinkle-resistant fabrics to minimize the need for ironing. This might take a little more time to acquire, but my wardrobe has a lot of these items because I don’t like to iron anyway!
-
Leave Room for Souvenirs: Who doesn’t love those “My boyfriend went to a library convention and all he brought back was a bunch of books” t-shirt? If you plan on buying shopping during your trip, leave some extra space in your luggage or pack a collapsible bag to bring them home. - Roll Your Clothes: Rolling your clothes instead of folding them save space and prevents wrinkles.
- The Order You Put Your Clothes in Matters: Place heavier items like jeans and jackets at the bottom of your suitcase and lighter items like t-shirts and underwear on top. This helps distribute weight evenly and prevents wrinkles.
- Moderate your stress. You are not going to the Moon. The worst-case scenario, like a forgotten piece of clothing or toothbrush, can be solved by a quick trip to the store. Take a deep breath, and enjoy the journey.
- Wear Bulky Items: This is really important if you are traveling to a different climate. If you're traveling with bulky items like boots or a heavy coat, consider wearing them instead of packing them in your suitcase to save space. You can always throw your coat over your shoulder or into an overhead compartment on a plane.
HCPL wishes you safe travels this summer. Drop us a postcard from some exotic destination or tag @harriscountypl on pictures of you reading on some remote mountaintop or tropical beach.
How to Survive your First Trip in the Wild
Hotel Secrets From the Travel Detective
If you're traveling abroad this summer, make sure your passport is still valid. If it isn't, we suggest visiting our Passport Services page.
Add a comment to: How to Pack like a Pro