Guest Blogger, Andi: Packing Tips for International Travel

Having circled the globe too many times to count, I have become quite the professional packer. On a trip to Cuba several years ago, I was forced to pack two weeks of belongings in a small carryon. I doubted that I would be able to do it, but I surprised myself and actually had enough room to even smuggle back a box of 40 cigars!

I get constant e-mails from people wanting me to share with them my “packing secrets,” thus I was inspired by those emails to compile a list of tips that are essential for whatever luggage you are using. Since I have accumulated quite a number of tips over the years, I have decided to split this post into 2 parts, so keep your eyes open for Part two, coming next month.

1. Roll clothes: Most people are used to folding their clothes in squares, but actually the best way to save space and cut back on wrinkles is to roll them. Also, it makes it easier and quicker to find things.

2. Pack empty plastic grocery bags or baggies: These will come in handy for a myriad of reasons from containing dirty clothes to keeping receipts organized.

3. Pick a general color scheme: Choose one neutral color, like black or brown, which all outfits and shoes will match. Try to stick to either silver or gold with jewelry, shoes, and purses as well. White purses will go with everything!

4. Wear heaviest items on plane: The heaviest items, such as coats and sneakers, take up the most room in the luggage. Wearing them on the plane will not only save space, but will keep you warm on the typically cold plane.

5. Prepare a travel kit: This is actually not a space saving tip, rather something that will come in handy on the flight. Make sure to have a kit full of things that will make your flight more pleasant, such as earplugs, a sleep mask, noise cancelling earphones, an MP3 player, eye drops, sleeping pills, and a book/magazine.

Andi Perullo is a Chinese Medicine Doctor by day, travel addict by night. When she is not treating patients, she is exploring the world or dreaming of the next place to visit. She also writes travel features for MNUI Travel Insurance and blogs at My Beautiful Adventures.