How to
Pack a Suitcase for a Five-Day Trip
In
this suitcase, there is plenty of room for nearly a week’s worth of clothing.
The key is to keep everything in separate and neat bundles, while making use of
the built-in compartments.
1.
Sweaters
To maintain the shape of my knitted tops and chunkier sweaters, I line the back
of each garment with a few sheets of acid-free tissue paper before folding.
These items should never be stored on hangers, either at hotels or at home;
doing so can cause the fibers near the shoulders to stretch.
2.
Footwear
Shoes are usually the heaviest cargo in a travel bag. To prevent them from
crushing delicate clothing, I tuck them around the perimeter of the suitcase.
Each pair is kept in an individual drawstring-topped shoe bag. I stuff the toes
of my pumps and other dress shoes with acid-free tissue paper; socks go inside
sneakers and slides.
3.
Assembled Outfits
To streamline both packing and dressing on trips, I plan my outfits ahead of
time, complete with shoes and accessories. I put each outfit on a single hanger
(unless the top is a sweater) and wrap it in plastic.
4.
Accessories
In addition to packing my shoes in pouches, I also place belts in one bag,
undergarments in another, and tights and leggings in yet another. This ensures
that the suitcase stays organized, even in the rare event it is searched at the
airport.
Tangle-Free
Chargers
These days, traveling means toting around a lot of electronics. I pack each
charger separately in a labeled resealable plastic bag so everything is visible
and at my fingertips.
Computer Protection
Laptops have to be taken out of their cases at airport security checkpoints, so
I keep mine in a jumbo resealable bag to minimize handling. The power cord goes
into a smaller bag.
Light,
Easy Reading
I carry my Kindle, which lets me scan an array of books and newspapers, and my
cashmere scarf with me on every trip. I also bring my toiletries (in containers
that hold less than 3 ounces), a change of clothes, and my contact lens
container and solution, just in case I am separated from my luggage.
Uncluttered
Carryall
A messenger bag is roomy, can double as a pocketbook, and holds everything I
need. I rely on a few coordinating accessories, including a large, sleek
walletlike clutch by Perrin, to hold miscellaneous items.
Instant
Identifier
One trip to the baggage carousel is proof enough that nearly all suitcases look
alike. A bright-green ribbon tied to the handle distinguishes each of my bags
from everyone else’s.
Security
Measure
Many luggage locks are forbidden under security regulations. So I tie the
zipper pull tags on my suitcase together with a piece of waxed twine. That way,
I can tell if it has been opened.
To Relax
or Exercise
Comfortable, breathable clothes are always good to have on a trip. I’ll wear
them on the plane during a long flight or save them for an impromptu hike or
workout.
How
to Pack an Ensemble for Traveling
My trips are always extremely busy, so I plan what I’ll wear to each event to
ensure that I don’t take extra clothes. With this one-outfit-per-hanger system,
wrinkles are minimized, and I can hang up items as soon as I arrive.
Step 1:
Hang the bottom First, you need a good dual-purpose hanger with metal
clips and a secure grip. Attach a pair of jeans or pants or a skirt at the
waist.
Step 2:
Add the shirt
Slip the top onto the hanger, covering the bottom piece. If possible, keep all
the buttons closed so that the shirt and collar will lie flat.
Step 3:
Fold and wrap
Place the outfit facedown on a bed or a table. Tuck the pant legs under,
creasing at the knees or in thirds. Then fold in the shirt’s sleeves, and make
a final fold at the bottom to fit inside the suitcase. Slip a clear plastic
garment bag (you can use one from a dry cleaner) over the entire bundle,
tucking in any excess plastic.
(Text from Martha Stewart.com)
