The 6 Best Packing Strategies for Travel

woman taking a camera out of her perfectly packed Atlas shoulder bag

Packing for a trip can feel like a daunting, time-consuming chore. We get it. But knowing how to pack efficiently can save you both time and an unwanted headache. Today, we want to go over the best packing strategies so you can simply enjoy your trip ahead while feeling organized. To get started, let’s go over the different strategies. 

In 2016, Cosmopolitan Magazine did a feature describing the different types of packers for holiday vacations. We’re interested to hear what type of packer you are, but first, we’ll dive into the different types. 

Pick Your Packer

First, there are the perfectionist packers – the people who have pre-packing lists and pack in the most concise, functional way possible. Think color-coding, suitcase organizers, and completely maximizing the amount of space you have for whatever it is you’re packing for. 

Second, we have the “everything but the kitchen sinkpackers –  those who bring the essentials and then some…They’re the notorious over-packers, prepped for all sorts of last-minute circumstances. 

Third, there are the seasoned professionals – those who travel so much that they figure out the best ways to pack. They know how to maximize space without spending too much time prepping. 

Finally, there are the chaotic caravaners – those who pack at the last minute and tend to forget some essentials in all the ruckus. 

So, which packing type are you? Does it depend on where or how long the trip is? Maybe you pack based on how you’ll be traveling. We’ll now get into the best packing strategies for anything from a weekend getaway to a border-hopping excursion. Why? Because Atlas Supply  Co. bags were crafted with the traveler in mind. Our Minimalist and Ally styles are perfect ‘personal items’ to accompany your carry-on, as they boast ample storage space, optimal organization, minimal design, and easy access. 

6 Quick Packing Strategies Every Traveler Should Know

 woman with a black Atlas bag packed to the brim using the best packing strategies

 

1. Make that Packing List

This is one of the six packing strategies that may seem obvious, but please make a packing list. Despite what Cosmo’s categories would lead you to believe, having a list doesn’t make you a perfectionist; it makes you adequately prepared. If you know the events or activities you’ll be doing in advance, all the better as you won’t be packing for something that might happen. 

2. Skip the Folding; Stick to Rolling

Contrary to what you’ve been told about laundry care, it’s better to roll your clothes rather than fold them when packing for a trip. Not only can you roll the fabric around something fragile, but it also takes up the least amount of space possible in your bag or suitcase. Just ask Marie Kondo.

3. How Heavy Is Too Heavy?

Third, know your weight limit and bag allotment when you’re flying. Then, you can really pack to the max or prepare for souvenirs. Of all the packing strategies, this one comes in handy if you’re prone to souvenir shopping because you won’t be caught off guard by overweight fees or lack of space. If you’re worried about weight, there are several affordable luggage scales on the market that you can just slip in your bag to use when you’re away from home.

4. Choose Your Carry-On Wisely

In our opinion, maximizing the space of your “personal item” is a very important packing strategy. Most airlines allow you a carry-on and a personal item (which will be stowed under your seat or the seat in front of you). The size requirements for the personal item varies, but it typically includes things similar in size to a purse, backpack, or laptop bag. That means if you have a good bag with ample storage space, you’re in the clear! We designed our Atlas Supply Co. bags to do away with wasted space, maximizing storage capacity while keeping a clean and simple look.

5. Layers & Laundry

Up next is one of our twofold packing strategies, and it pertains to your clothing. First, utilize layers. If you wear layers on the plane – say a heavy coat over a hoodie over a T-Shirt – those are three workable pieces for when you land. Layers also allow for you to mix and match outfits more than if you just pack pre-determined outfits with no wiggle room (if you’re only packing statement pieces, for example). This is why neutral, multi-use accessories (such as any of our bags) are a must-have, as they go with anything, can carry everything, and fit in with any dress code. 

Second, remember that laundry services exist. You don’t need a full new outfit for every day of your two-week vacation. If you don’t want to pay an arm and a leg for the facilities on a cruise or in a hotel, you can do quick touch-ups in your bathtub or sink with travel-sized laundry detergent.

6. What to Bring and What Not to Bring in Your Carry-On

Speaking of travel-sized supplies, the last of our top packing strategies isn’t really a strategy at all; it’s mostly common sense. Don’t try to sneak anything through TSA, especially liquids. Your full bottle of shampoo will not only not make it through, but worse, your bags will get pulled aside and checked thoroughly, only delaying your travels. Also, don’t check the bags with your most essential and invaluable items. Keep those in your carry-on or personal bag for safekeeping, because, unfortunately, airlines do lose luggage, and behind-the-scenes theft can occur now and then, so better to be safe than sorry.

Atlas Supply Co. Bags Are Perfect for Travel

differently sized books fit perfectly in the Ally messenger bag, perfect for students

Not only are our unisex bag styles perfect for those who are always on the go, but they’re perfect for the photographers, the moms (and dads!) with little ones, the students, and the working professionals. The ample space, strategic pockets, removable shelves, and easy access make our bags the perfect carry-all for anyone! 

In our quest to make premium minimalist accessories, we made it so you don’t need a different bag for different uses. We offer a variety of colors and styles, and we hope you find one you’ll love. Whether you adopt one or all of the packing strategies above, rest assured you can fit everything in your Atlas Supply Co. bag. 

Discover our collection of Atlas Supply Co. bags, and stay tuned to see what we have up our sleeve for the holidays!

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