Even for an expert traveller, traveling “light” is a challenge, especially when you intend to travel for long periods of time. Whether on a backpacking adventure or moving to another place carrying luggage, it is useful to know tips on how to maximize space – both in the bags you carry or the boxes you leave.
FOR THE THINGS YOU TAKE WITH YOU
Create a Checklist – Write down what you need and narrow it down. Most times, it is inevitable to pack more than the basic necessities, like packing things of sentimental value, but that should be fine if you have a list of things that you shouldn’t miss. A checklist will help ease that “I think I forgot something” feeling. Bring it with you so you have a reference for repacking.
Clothes and Fabric – pieces of clothing that you can mix and match are always the best. Think of what you can layer so you are ready for whatever season your next destination is in. When putting it into your bag, roll your clothes to fit more.
Hygiene and First Aid – Unless about to do extreme activities, only bring the basics. Even in hygiene, bring only the bare essentials, and make sure you carry travel sized items that seal very well and are packed in a good sealable bag.
Zip Lock Bags – You can never have enough of these wonderful things. It can store wet or used items. Bring extra plastic bags and small zip lock bags. You can never have enough of these.
Light and Multi-compartment Bags – Organization can help you a lot when unpacking and repacking. Make sure you choose to bring light bags with pockets so that each can be assigned a purpose and you can unpack and repack easily.
FOR THE THINGS YOU LEAVE BEHIND
Storage Rooms – If you are going to be away for a long period of time, a storage room is a good solution to keep your belongings safe and organized.
Organization – When using a storage room, stack heavier boxes in the bottom and disassemble furniture. Breakables and fragile items must be stored in a separate area within the room. As much as possible, do not stack them.
Moving Your Items – Van hire can just add more cost to your storage requirement.Arrange for a vehicle that can transport and arrange moving your possessions wisely to maximise your time and expenses.
Time of Travel – If you have an idea of how long you will be gone, it is best to pay the storage facility in advance. Most of the time you can get bigger savings by paying ahead.
Important Stuff – For important items that you will need as soon as you check back in, put them right in the front so you can access these right away.
Your belongings are one of the bigger concerns for long-period travel. Make sure that they are sorted out and well-arranged so that you don’t have anything to worry about while you are traveling.