How to pack like a pro! Suitcase and holiday packing tips and tricks

If you’re planning a trip away anytime soon (we’re jealous, by the way!), chances are you’ll be buzzing with excitement for actually getting there and being able to relax, away from the stresses of work or school. However, we’re going to go out on a limb and say that one aspect you’re not looking forward to is the packing side of things. 

It can be tricky fitting everything into a suitcase, especially if you’re going abroad and only taking hand luggage with you. That’s why we’re put together a list of tips for packing a small suitcase, so that you and your clothes can get to your destination with minimal fuss!

Make a list

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Okay so you might be reading this thinking ‘oh I don’t need to make a list, I know what to take with me on a short trip away’. We all know what to take with us on a short break, but it’s amazing how easy it is to let something slip your mind while you’re packing, only to remember it when it’s too late.

To avoid that ‘dammit!’ moment, write a list with two columns: ‘essential’ and ‘desirable’. List each item in the appropriate column, and you’ll find it easy to prioritise what you take with you. Just remember to put your passport at the top of the list!

B&M Top Tip: keep all your important documents (passport, tickets, boarding passes etc.) in an easily accessible file pocket, in the order you will be needing them.

Roll softer garments and fold stiffer ones

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Anything soft (i.e underwear, socks, swimwear and t shirts) won’t crease if rolled up tightly. Anything made from stiffer fabrics, like cotton shirts, trousers and skirts, will crease easily, so it’s important to fold these instead.

Place any rolled items first into the bottom of the case. This will make it easier to pack the rest of your items, and will help protect anything delicate from damage.

Keep your clothes fresh

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This is especially relevant if you’re going to be travelling long-haul, but is worth doing for shorter journeys too! Place some scented drawer liners or fabric conditioner sheets between your clothes to keep them smelling fresh throughout your journey. 

Split your items up

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If you’re travelling with a friend or partner, it’s a good idea to divide your items up, so you have some of each in each case. This means that, in the horrendous scenario of one of your cases being delayed or stolen, you will at least have some of your items with you and you won’t be left with just the clothes you’re stood up in!

Consider using compressor bags

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A great way to save space in your suitcase is by using compressor bags. These clever bags literally compress any air out of your clothes, so they’re great for making room for more items. However, they do have a tendency to crease your clothes, so it’s best to use these for items you won’t mind running an iron over once you get to your destination.

B&M Top Tip: if you don’t want to iron your clothes once you arrive, why not take a compressor bag to use for your dirty laundry on the journey home?

 

Do you have any holiday packing tips that you’d like to share? Join the B&M community and post your suitcase packing advice to Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.