How to pack a suitcase like a frequent flyer
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Packing a suitcase that contains only what we will actually use can be tricky. But some have it down to an art, with tried-and-tested tips that prevent their bags from overflowing with things they don’t need. We asked three frequent travellers to share their advice.
Kirsten King, founder and principal instructor of Fluidform Pilates
The unpredictability of travel means suitcases can end up full of items we’ve included “just in case”, but Kirsten King says focusing on “quality over quantity” and checking the forecast helps avoid this. With Fluidform’s first retreat with Halcyon House from August 9-12 later this year, she will make a list of what she wants to take a week before departure, adding to it as needed.
“Make changes through the week and when you think of something in the middle of the night (how my brain works) add it to the list,” she says. “This helps to avoid overpacking, and doubles as an inventory list when you’re packing to come home, so nothing gets left behind.”
King’s carry-on bag has only the essentials, including headphones, an eye mask, a water bottle and something to keep her occupied, while her check-in bag contains three pairs of shoes and clothing that can be layered or styled together. As an experienced traveller, she has learnt to leave some things at home, such as her entire make-up bag.
“I like to give my skin a break while I am travelling and focus on hydration, sun protection and a good quality hair and body oil. I’ve swapped my perfume bottle for an oil and my Pilates mat now stays at home,” she says, adding that a towel is all she needs. To keep everything organised, she swears by packing cubes and keeps skincare products safe from breaking by filling her shoes with them.
Kathryn Eisman, founder and creative director of High Heel Jungle
Fashion expert Kathryn Eisman decides what to pack based on outfits rather than items of clothing. The former TV reporter plans her wardrobe based on key moments in the itinerary.
“If an item doesn’t belong to a look, it doesn’t make the suitcase. It keeps everything streamlined and eliminates the ‘nothing to wear’ situation entirely,” she says.
When the trip is longer, that rule has the added caveat that if an item isn’t part of a “key moment outfit” it needs to be versatile. Eisman explains that if you pack three blazers, three tops, three bottoms and three pairs of shoes, you are building a system that gives you up to 81 combinations. She recommends considering how you want the clothes to make you feel on your trip, rather than just the look you’re after.
“If I’m in New York for business, I lean into deeper, moodier tones, fabrics and structured pieces that make me feel powerful and protected,” she says. “For a family beach holiday, it’s lighter, softer, more relaxed pieces.”
Kirsty Glenne, CEO, Antler House of Brands
While Kirsty Glenne admits she sometimes overpacks, it doesn’t mean her suitcase is disorganised.
“I plan my outfits very deliberately ahead of a trip, based on my itinerary, but I do have a tendency to add a few extra options at the end, particularly if there’s space,” she says. “For me, the key is that even when I overpack, everything is highly organised.”
Like King, Glenne swears by packing cubes with compression zips. She also takes photos of outfits so she can reference them later and organises clothes by colour or by day.
“It allows you to instantly locate what you need without unpacking your entire suitcase,” she says. What you won’t find in Glenne’s suitcase is “just in case” items, such as toiletries and appliances. “Most hotels are very well-equipped, and carrying unnecessary extras only adds weight and complexity,” she says.
Top suitcase picks
Get your carry-on and check-in bags in one matching set in blue, silver or white colours. The bags feature eight spinner wheels for easy manoeuvring through busy airports and expandable compartments in case you overpack or buy a few extra souvenirs.
This reimagined carry-on features iconic details like the trunk-style silhouette with newer innovations like the hybrid hard shell case. It also has soft-close comfort grip handles and replaceable wheels.
For those who prefer a soft case this bag is a great option with plenty of room for all your belongings. It is expandable, has eight spinner wheels and antimicrobial lining. Available in four colours; grey, black, navy and varsity green.