8 Packing Hacks for Your Next Trip

Photo Credit: Oversixty

Once, I had to turn back home when we’ve started our journey for about an hour simply because I accidentally and inconveniently forgot my medicine.

Imagine that horror which could have easily spoiled the merry mood that we had for the holiday. Lucky thing I didn’t realise it much later LOL.

Because I’ve certainly been there, and done that, let me share with you several top tips when it comes to packing and hopefully, I will be able to save everyone else from the same experience.

Tip #1 – Make a list

Many people skip this and go straight to the packing, which in my opinion:

• Makes you spend more time thinking while packing,
• has a higher risk to leave something behind, and
• may cause you to overpack unnecessarily.

Sit down for 5-10 minutes to think it through and list down the items you need (with the respective quantities). Try it out, you’ll pack like a pro.

Here are some interactive packing list for you to create your packing list online:

• Independent Traveller Interactive Packing List
• Let’s Go! Travel
• Her Packing List

P/S: You may also need to do a bit of research on the place you’re headed to ensure you pack correctly.

For example, if you’re heading to cold places like Cameron Highlands, you’ll need to pack clothes that will keep you warm.

Conversely, on islands such as Pulau Rawa or Pulau Tioman, you’ll need less bulky clothes for your comfort on the sea sands and under the sun.

Tip #2 – Compartmentalise smartly

My usual bags for trips are – 

• Handbag or backpack,

• luggage bag, and

• toiletry bag that I stuff into the luggage bag.

Things that you use often such as hand sanitizer, medicine, wallet, documents, lip balm, sunshades etcetera should be put into your handbag or backpack to ensure easy access.

Make sure you group your items in the luggage bag to avoid having to scour the whole content to find a particular item.

The toiletries bag is excellent to avoid any spilt shampoo ruining your phone charger and favourite blouse.

Tip #3 – Stock up on ziplock bags

Having said that, ziplock bags are the most ideal for grouping your items, in my opinion.

Have one for electricals, another for deodorant and makeups, another for undergarments, and don’t forget the accessories too.

The spare ones can be used to fill dirty laundry and even souvenirs etc.

Tip #4 – Roll your clothes

Many travellers swear by this method as it saves space and reduces wrinkles on your clothes. Instead of folding, roll your clothes and you’ll be wonderfully surprised at the outcome.

Tip #5 – Bring safe colours and accessories

While we’re at the topic of clothing, I highly recommend you bring “safe” colours that can be easily matched and are less likely to be out of place.

For example, you can wear colours like black or brown everywhere and brighten up the outfit with scarves or accessories.

Dark colours are also my favourite because they do not stain easily and hides sweat spots.

Tip #6 – Wear and bring comfortable and suitable shoes

This is very important because sore or blistered foot is not only painful, it also dampens your holiday.

Once upon a time, I wore a pair of new flats that I never tested before for a trip that lasted a week.

Needless to say, the back of my foot was red and painful, then I had to buy both a new pair of shoes and plasters DURING the holiday itself to prevent bleeding and me crying every time I walked around.

And people think only heels can are hazardous LOL.    

Tip #7 – Have an emergency kit

Depending on the place you’re going, prepare an emergency kit to minimise any risk that may occur. At the least, have items like plasters and Panadol handy.

If you’re heading to a more secluded area for camping or hiking, it is even more vital for you to be ready with the necessary essentials.

Tip #8 – Don’t overpack

Trust me, you won’t be needing that much. Several clothes can be recycled or easily washed in the sink and dried.

The kids won’t need a lot of toys as they have many new things to discover and occupy their time at the destination.

Besides, how many times have you actually underpack as opposed to the times when you wished you’ve pack lesser?

 

Now its time to put your packing skills to test and begin your journey. Visit CatchThatBus website www.catchthatbus.com or simply download its mobile app on your iOS or Android device to book your bus tickets online at prices that are guaranteed to be the same as the bus counters.

It’s the fast, secure, and hassle-free way to travel!