How to pack the perfect suitcase (or almost) for the next vacation

Tickets and hotels reserved, documents checked. The time of travel is approaching and you have to prepare bags and suitcases. And yes, for many it is a stressful moment since it generates doubts.

Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, the way you organize your luggage makes the difference between a smooth experience… or not.

Here we offer some keys to optimize space and try to put together the perfect suitcase. Essential: organization and common sense.

Type of trip, type of place: the first step is be clear about the weather of the destination to which you are traveling and the type of activities planned on the agenda to have the right clothes and accessories.

Is it an adventure trip? Are you going to the beach? Is it very cold or does it usually rain? Do you have corporate events or an elegant dinner? Do you plan to take long walks? Does the hotel have a heated pool?

Before starting to pack clothes and accessories “just in case” it is better to be clear about what the trip will be like for you. avoid carrying unnecessary things, or that you lack clothing suitable for the planned activities.

make a detailed list. If you want to be more precise, you can divide it by categories (clothing, footwear, accessories, hygiene products, technology and documents) and it is important to be realistic to add those that will actually be used during the trip. Don’t get carried away by enthusiasm.

Beyond the traditional paper list, there are now organization apps that help those who trust them complete this step.

In times when part of the economy of airfare is traveling with what is necessary, we must maximize space. It is also important avoid wrinkles.

For this, a technique that is increasingly in use is that of roll clothes instead of folding them.

There are those who suggest combine this method with compression bags for large or bulky garments, such as coats or winter garments.

They agree choose clothes that can be easily mixed and matched: versatile and neutral garments that allow different combinations. For example, a jacket or jacket that matches all your clothes, comfortable but elegant shoes, as well as pants that can be worn day or night.

To keep in mind, clothing made of light and breathable fabrics – linen or cotton – are ideal for when you have to carry little luggage because they are suitable for different types of climate.

“The theme”: the footwear It can – and usually – takes up a lot of space in the suitcase and adds weight. Therefore, instead of carrying several pairs, it is advisable choose two or three that serve different activities. The amount must also be appropriate to the duration of the trip.

For example, a pair of comfortable sneakers for walking, a pair of elegant shoes or sandals for the evening and some flip flops/crocs or boots depending on the season and destination.

To keep in mind: for reasons of hygiene, it is advisable store shoes in bags to keep the other clothes we keep in the suitcase clean.

Accessories take up little space and give a special or different touch to the outfit. It is also true that they can get lost or tangled if we store them without taking precautions.

It suits use small cases or bags where they are organized and in separate compartments. There are watches, jewelry, sunglasses and other small objects.

And handkerchief or scarf That it goes with all your clothes is always good and can be a good touch to change a look.

An essential item on the list is everything related to the electronic devices that are currently used during the trip: chargers, adapters and cables, headphones, external battery, etc.

You can use a separate case or bag – if it has compartments, the better – that brings all this together: a kind of technology kit.

Liquids and gels They are a matter of concern. On the one hand, you have to avoid a potential spill on other belongings; on the other hand, adapt to the regulations according to means of transport and destination.

The key is in select small size products (maximum 100 ml) that can be placed in a transparent and reusable bag, Ziploc type, to comply with airport security regulations.

It is advisable to carry only essential products: Toothpaste, deodorant and moisturizer are basic, along with shampoo, cream rinse and body wash if we are not going to a hotel.

Passport or IDboarding passes, hotel reservations, minor permits or marriage books if you are traveling with children and any other important document should go in an easily accessible place. Although papers are being forgotten in the case of tickets or reservations for example, and today it is very common to have everything on your cell phone, it is always important to carry a fanny pack or handbag with everything important that you need at hand.

Silver, credit cards, valuables and essential medication should never be shipped.

There are many who are tempted during the trip and buy souvenirs for family and friends, so it is important to plan a little space in the suitcase for these things. Or it may also be that one finds things at convenient prices and takes the opportunity to buy.

It is always advisable to carry a additional foldable bag that can be used in case you need it for the return.