Travel Tips

Travel Tip: Travel Gear to Help You Save Space

packing cubeBetween checked ­bag fees and limited space in overhead bins, you better believe that every inch of your luggage should be used wisely. Here’s how you can maximize the space you do have.

One of the best-­kept secrets among frequent flyers is packing cubes. Eagle Creek makes soft-­sided bags that weigh next to nothing and can keep your items compressed and organized.

One cube for dirty clothes, one for shoes, another for socks and underwear, you get the picture.

As an alternative, Samsonite makes plastic compression bags that can keep your clothes flat while squeezing out all the extra air.

Meaning you can fit more than if you just fold them the old­fashioned way.

But watch out…you might fit so much that your suitcase is heavier than expected. Pick up a portable luggage scale—just to make sure you don’t end up paying overweight fees.

And sometimes, packing smart is about what you don’t bring: You can go without the full-size shampoos and lotions if you just purchase reusable three-­ounce containers.

Not only will the fit in your carry-­on, but you can bring your favorite products without having to spend extra on travel-­sized items.

For more information, visit the Travel Gear Archives.

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