The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. And the journey of a pleasant air travel experience begins with packing light and efficiently.
Regardless of whether you are travelling domestic or international, you need to do your research and make the right luggage-related decisions to ensure a gratifying experience.
Besides carrying the right clothes and other essential items, packing them appropriately in your luggage is also important. Otherwise, you may struggle with locating the necessary documents at the last minute or end up paying an extra luggage fee.
With a little planning and preparation, you can pack like a pro and ensure a smooth and hassle-free trip.
So whether you are a seasoned traveller or a novice, read on for some helpful advice on how to pack for air travel.
Start your travel packing days ahead of your leaving date as this will provide you ample time to craft your checklist and will avoid last minute hassles. This will help you stay organised and ensure you don't forget anything important.
To pack efficiently, you must get a distinct suitcase. Selecting something that stands out is recommended as it makes it easier for you to quickly spot your bag at the luggage claim area, which can help save a few precious minutes.
If your suitcase is not distinguishable, you can consider tying a bow or ribbon at its handle. It will reduce the confusion and minimise the chances of someone else walking out of the airport with your bags.
When going on a trip, you don’t need to carry extra outfits. Don’t carry two jackets because it is cold there. Instead, take one jacket that can protect you from the freezing temperatures.
You should plan your outfits in advance and try to mix & match your attires. Don’t be stubborn about carrying extras, as that can make your luggage heavier and increase the likelihood of paying extra luggage fees.
If you are going on a long trip with electronic items like your laptop, iPad, and other things, it is advised to pack them in one place in a single layer. Since your handbags and checked-in bags are physically inspected, this will save you from unloading all your belongings. Moreover, it will ensure a quick security check so you don’t hold the queue for long.
At most hotels, you get complimentary shampoos, soaps, and moisturisers. Some even provide toothpaste, vitamins, and other necessary items. While travelling, instead of carrying regular-sized bottles of skincare essentials, you should use these complimentary items. Doing so can help you save space in the bags and avoid the excess baggage fee.
When travelling, there is so much you need to pack. By the time you are done stuffing all your essentials, you may find it impossible to zip up your bags.
One way to pack efficiently and avoid this is by packing from the perimeter. It means you should first place the items around the sides and work towards the centre. Packing like this helps you know exactly how much can fit in your bag so you can close it properly.
One space-saver tip to maximise space in your bag is to roll your clothes instead of folding them. Clothes made of lightweight materials like cotton and nylon can compactly fit in your bag this way. Also, this packing hack can help reduce creasing in clothes.
Did you know that travelling with satellite phones during flight journeys without seeking special permission is banned in India? It can even get you debarred from flying.
Before packing your bags for air travel, you must gather such information so you don’t pack stuff you are not permitted to carry while flying. For this, you can contact your airlines and check the baggage advice page of the airport you are flying from. Knowing what not to pack can save you from going through unnecessary hassle.
Once you are done stuffing all your items in your checked-in luggage, it is advised to weigh your bags at home. This can save you last-minute anxiety and hassle at the baggage area.
If you have an overweight bag but cannot remove a few things from the luggage, you should use the Excess Baggage Delivery Service provided by the Delhi Airport to avoid paying the excess luggage fee. This airport facility ensures doorstep delivery of your bags at 1/5th of the airline charges.
When going on a trip, you must pack your bags carefully. Evaluate the need and use of each item before stuffing it inside your luggage. This can save you unnecessary hassle and the hefty excess luggage fee charged by the airlines.
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