Have you ever found yourself struggling to close your suitcase, tugging at a zipper that seems to be holding on for dear life? It turns out, it might not be your clothes’ fault after all. According to Juan Phillips, a seasoned luggage designer for the award-winning travel brand Travelpro, the real issue lies in how we utilize the “dead space” inside our bags.
Phillips emphasizes the importance of making the most of the organic architecture of your bag. He suggests using the “Back Wall” method to effectively pack a week’s worth of gear into a standard carry-on. By strategically utilizing the space inside your bag, you can maximize its capacity and avoid the frustration of trying to cram everything in.
One key tip is to conquer the ‘Trough’ in your suitcase. Most bags have two parallel bumps that house the retractable handle. Instead of laying your clothes flat over these bumps, use them to your advantage. By placing your heaviest and most awkward items in these ‘troughs,’ you create a flat surface for the rest of your clothes, increasing the depth of your packing space significantly.
When it comes to packing shoes, Phillips suggests the ‘L-Shape’ shoe secret. Rather than packing shoes side-by-side, arrange them in an ‘L-Shape’ along the perimeter of your bag. This not only saves space but also helps distribute the weight more evenly, preventing one side of your bag from bulging out.
For those who debate between packing cubes and rolling, Phillips recommends a hybrid approach. Use packing cubes for uniform items like undergarments and t-shirts to keep them compressed. However, for your main outfits, roll them to maximize space. This combination allows for efficient organization and high-density compression, giving you the best of both worlds.
Before investing in a new bag, Phillips advises checking the dimensions carefully. While airlines may state a 22-inch limit, many bags are actually 23 inches tall. Look for bags labeled as ‘Sizer-Tested,’ as this extra inch can make a significant difference in fitting in that extra day’s worth of outfits without exceeding size restrictions.
In conclusion, mastering the art of packing is not just about throwing items into a bag haphazardly. By utilizing the space inside your luggage effectively and following Phillips’ expert tips, you can pack smarter, avoid checked baggage fees, and streamline your travel experience for any week-long trip.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.