Whether you're headed to Spain, Sudan, or Switzerland, you can never underestimate the importance of proper packing. How you pack can set the tone for your trip. If you've ever arrived at your destination only to find your suitcase splattered with the remains of a shaving cream explosion, you know this to be true.
- Stretch your travel wardrobe by color-matching. If you simply make sure every piece of clothing you pack works with every other piece, you can create a host of mix-and-match possibilities and no one will be the wiser.
- Going abroad? Make a photocopy of your passport and store it separately from the original. If you lose your real passport, having a copy will speed the replacement process.
- Avoid overpacking. Do you really need 4 t-shirts for an overnight?
- If you're going to be bored, be sure to include things like books or games to keep you occupied and happy.
- Keep in touch with your friends with stationery!
- Wear your heaviest clothing such as jeans, running shoes/tennis shoes, sweatshirt to save on space. Consider replacing your jeans with light-weight travel pants which take less space and dry quickly.
- Pack neatly. When folding your clothes to put in your suitcase, fold them neatly and don't just throw them in. Try to be space conserving. When you fold neatly it'll definitely give you some more space! Also, try to use every part of your suitcase (every gap between objects or so).
