Remember that scene from the movie “Up in the Air” where George Clooney packs his carry-on in 20 seconds flat? His clothes are folded neatly and neatly, his ties are tucked away in a travel pouch, and he closes the bag with one clean (very satisfying) pull of the zipper.
Luckily, you don't have to be a celebrity to master the art of the suitcase. With a little pre-planning, any traveler – business or otherwise – can learn to pack like Clooney.
When you're on a solo business trip, you'll end up spending more time with your carry-on than with anyone else. For this reason, it is important to choose the ideal companion.
Here are some general hand luggage guidelines:
• Choose the right bag.
Should you choose a backpack, a sports bag or a wheeled bag? If you're carrying it in and out of subways, buses, or trains, choose a bag you can throw over your shoulders.
Personally, I prefer to use luggage with swivel wheels. Bags like these will practically walk by your side, while a basement affair will run away or collapse before you've even left the tarmac.
• Keep it compact.
Whatever type of bag you choose, make sure it is the right size. US airlines generally allow baggage to measure up to 45 inches in total (length, width, and height).
Today, more airlines draw the line at 20 inches in length, and international carriers limit baggage weight to 20 pounds.
• Make sure it's secure.
Make sure your bag can be locked and buy a bag lock to keep your stuff safe.
See also:Things you didn't know happened on a trip
Once you have your carry-on, it's time to figure out what you need to put in it. Start packing two days before your departure and pack from a highly curated list.
Here are some tips for effective packaging:
• Choose multitasking items.
Your shoe choice should be comfortable and versatile. Bring professional shoes in which you can walk comfortably.
(Tip:Wear slip-on shoes at the airport to get through security more efficiently.)
Small tweaks like this can make a huge difference!
• Use your space wisely.
You can and should roll most clothes tightly (this will prevent wrinkles). However, a few items such as jeans and suit jackets need to be folded.
• Divide and conquer.
Sort clothes by type (e.g. shirts or underwear) and occasion (e.g. running clothes or work clothes) into gallon-sized resealable bags, then squeeze to compress. This will save you space and cut repacking time in half.
• Balance the load.
Pack shoes and heavier items near the wheels of carry-on luggage or at the bottom of a duffel bag. Fill your shoes with socks.
• Pack accessories separately.
Small items such as brushes, chargers and USB cords should be stored in clear plastic bags so they don't get lost in the chasm of your bag.
• Pack a few light shopping bags.
You can use them to separate your dirty laundry from your clean items.
You don't need to pack your entire wardrobe, even if you're going away for a full week. If in doubt, leave it out. The following must be on the homemaker list:
•A thick raincoat or an umbrella:
Instead, opt for a poncho in a pocket, which can be used as a tarp, raincoat or even a blanket.
• Additional toiletries:
By Transportation Security Administration menstruation, gels and liquids (eg toothpaste, lotion and conditioner) should be in 3.4 ounce or smaller containers. Containers should fit in a clear resealable quart-sized bag. If you can, forego additional self-care products. Hotels still offer shampoo and conditioner.
You may not have the advantage of being a glamorous movie star, but that doesn't mean you can't pack your bags. On your next business trip, channel your inner Clooney – you won't regret it.
