9 Packing Tips for Your Next Vacation

Whether visiting a single place or going to multiple destinations, you will probably buy a few souvenirs along the way. An extra bag is handy for storing the souvenirs and anything else you might have purchased on your vacation. You can select any bag, but a collapsible one may be ideal.

You will likely pack a carry-on bag with many items, but you will still be far from your larger suitcases. Prepare for the worst by carrying extra clothes, toiletries, and medications in case you lose your suitcase. Personal or expensive items you can't afford to lose should also be in the carry-on bag. 

Books, bulky clothes, and other heavy items may come in handy while on vacation. These items should be at the bottom of your luggage to prevent them from crashing lighter items. For example, place shoes and thicker attire at the bottom of your bag for safety and to prevent wrinkling.

Also, when you place heavy items at the bottom of your luggage, you lower the center of gravity, making it easier to move the luggage around.

Only some items that you will carry are essential or beneficial. Start by making a list of everything you will carry on your vacation. Then, cross important items off the list as you pack. This ensures that you don't leave anything behind that may force you to cut short your vacation.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires passengers to follow the 3-1-1 Rule for carry-on luggage. The rule bars people from carrying large bottles of shampoo, deodorants, and other liquids past the security line. For example, you can't bring liquids in bottles larger than 3.4 oz to the plane. If you pack these items, the TSA will confiscate your items and keep you waiting in line.

Instead of using several backpacks and luggage bags, get one bag that is large enough to accommodate all your items. The backpack should also be sizable but able to be a carry-on for your flight.

When you have fewer bags, you reduce your chances of losing your luggage. Carrying one large suitcase around is also easier than several bags.

Instead of carrying multiple books to read through your flight, choose digital entertainment during your flight and vacation. Digital entertainment is lighter and easier to access. For example, you can buy an e-reader that fits in a backpack and can store multiple books.

You don't have to carry every type of pants and shirt that you own on vacation. Instead, narrow the clothing down to the items you will require. For example, uncomfortable or dressy clothes may not be necessary if you'll be doing much walking during the vacation. Also, check the weather for where you go before packing your clothes.

Packing cubes are wonderful tools for organizing your suitcase. The cubes create different zones in your bag and allow you to place similar items together. Also, when you reach your destination, you can easily carry the cubes to the hotel room.