Luggage expert's 'number one' packing rule to keep your suitcase weight down
Getting to the airport and being told you need to cull your suitcase because it weighs too much is a bit of a travel nightmare, and one that most people would prefer to avoid.
But it can be hard to reduce what you want to pack, especially if you are off on a long trip, or somewhere cold that requires extra layers.
That's where a few simple tricks from a luggage expert can make sure you'll have everything you need, without the excess baggage fee.
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Having an overweight suitcase can lead to plenty of headaches while travelling. Getty
Veronica from American Tourister tells 9Travel that there are two essential things to to watch out for when it comes to keeping the weight down.
What you pack, and your choice of suitcase.
"When it comes to what you pack, you need to be… highly selective (I'm talking not packing the 'just in case' or emergency outfits)," Veronica shares.
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"Think about how many times you'll need to change each item. Pack pieces that can work interchangeably so you can maximise your wardrobe en route, while keeping the weight down."
That's where she recommends a capsule wardrobe, plenty of advice for which can be found online. And then write a list of what is essential so you can visually see what you need.
You don't need to pack everything from your wardrobe. Getty Images/iStockphoto
Veronica says it's also important to pack for the weather at your destination.
"If you're travelling to warm climates you'll need to be washing more as you sweat it out while exploring, whereas in colder climates you could get more wear," she tells us.
"Layering options, if you're moving through different climates, is great as well, with lightweight thermal tops or raincoats being your best friend for staying warm and travelling light."
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And don't pack as many shoes.
"With shoes you also want to reduce to as few as possible considering they will be your bulkiest items. I personally pick one pair of sneakers, some flip flops, and nice sandals so that I can hit all of my activity needs," she notes.
Get organised with coloured packing cubes. iStock
But Veronica's number one piece of advice is to use packing cubes.
"I personally love using compression packing cubes to keep my suitcase organised and also limit what I can fit for each category of clothing," she says, "They're also great for separating out laundry for washing."
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Lastly, she says many people forget to consider toiletries.
"Cull this down. A 10-step skin routine is not always the vibe when you're travelling light. Keep it to the essentials, only pack a few key items from your makeup kit and embrace the reduced routine while you're on vacay," Veronica says.
Using the clear bag from carry-on requirements is a great way to keep yourself limited and travel lighter, is another handy piece of advice.
A heavy suitcase isn't something you want to be carrying around town. Supplied/American Tourister
The last thing you want to be doing is having to carry a "monstrously heavy suitcase" up stairs and around town, so starting with something that's light to begin with is also a great idea.
"Keeping your suitcase light with the volume you need is the best way to travel light before you even start packing! American Tourister has many great ultra-light options that fit the brief."
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