Packing Tips from the WIB Community

In our post Travel Tips 101: Packing, we asked the question: “What’s your best packing tip?” The comments from you on the WIBlog, your tweets, and Facebook posts were so great that we had to share!

Here are the highlights:

Tips for Saving Space in Your Suitcase

• BAGS... Ziploc, Space Saver, and Pack-Max! This was the No. 1 tip that we received -- you guys love just love all brands of baggies! By squishing out all the air in between your clothing items, we agree that bags are definitely an awesome way to squeeze more stuff into your suitcase.
• But if bags aren't your thing, you can always roll up your clothing. Rolling items provides you with more room in your luggage. If you're very ambitious (and wrinkle conscious), rolling your clothing in tissue paper will help keep clothes smoother for longer.
• Limit yourself to two pairs of shoes -- one for day and one for night. Ladies, we know this may be like parting with your first born, but just think of all the space you will save!

Tips on Packing Light

• Pack basic black clothes. Dark clothing shows less soil and goes with everything! You won't have to pack as many articles of clothing, if you can re-wear items.
• Scarves and other accessories are great items to pack -- they will spruce up your black ensembles very well!
• Though, if black is utterly boring to you, be sure that your colored clothing all coordinates well with each other. The secret to "packing light" is packing less.
• Bring along clothes that you are ready to part with. This may be a junky pair of sweats that you can sleep in and then, toss upon your departure or it could be items that you've grown tired of and deem worthy of donation. Either way, we think this is a great idea -- it also allows for more room to pack souvenirs!
• If the latter, however, one member of the WIB community suggested leaving a note on top the folded clothing which reads: “These are worn and need of cleaning, but they are yours to take or give to someone in need.”

Tips on Keeping Your Accessories Neat, Organized, and Safe

• Nearly every hotel room has shower caps and they are great to pack your shoes in! The plastic barrier will keep your clothes clean from the dirt that may be on your shoes.
• Place jewelry in a “day of the week” pill sorter -- this keeps chains from tangling and earrings from losing their other halves.
• Pack your valuables between layers of clothing. This will keep them safe from prying eyes in security and will also keep them secure when/if your bag gets tossed around a bit in transport.

Tips on Limiting the Chances for Lost Luggage

• When traveling with someone, pack half of your items in the other’s suitcase and vice versa. This way, if one piece of luggage is lost, you won't be totally at a loss.
• Traveling solo? Chances are that you'll have at least two bags; therefore, separate vital pieces and items into each bag.
• And always, carry your most important and treasured items on you (e.g. medication).