Can anyone pack the perfect suitcase? I don’t think it’s possible. As a friend of mine pointed out, invariably upon arrival you discover you have either packed too much or not enough. I’m no expert but I have had a lot of practice and here’s what I’ve found.

As soon as I come back I start unpacking and make a list of all the things I really did use on that trip. I keep the list in my suitcase including notes on any extras that would have been nice (instead of the things I never used!) When I know I will soon to leaving again, I often launder what I liked and repack it immediately. I have a basic ship suitcase ready to go all the times. It includes a full set of cosmetics and toiletries; I top-off used items and re-pack them too.

Flight attendants are the world’s best packers. I’ve learned a lot from my friends who fly. Some of their secrets include using every bit of space possible by filling shoes with socks, etc. and rolling your clothes. Rolled items can be smooshed together tightly which helps reduce wrinkles.

It’s hard to plan a portable wardrobe when working on a cruise ship; not only are you sailing through changing climates, you are dressing for changing activities and dress codes - every day. Best way to face this challenge is with separates that can be mixed and matched. Always good for both men and women. Stick to a simple palette of colors that combine easily - you can’t go wrong with black and white!

And of course, there’s the Golden Rule - Always leave space for shopping. It’s not a bad idea to take an empty suitcase or a fold-up duffle-bag when you know you can’t resist souvenirs and local bargains! Don’t forget to check with your airline on weight limits, you don’t want to get carried away. And remember never check jewelry or medication that you need while enroute; even under the new FAA restrictions on hand luggage, personal medication with your name on the label is allowed.

This entry was posted on Friday, September 15th, 2006 at 5:59 pm and is filed under General. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.