Ever walked through the airport and sneaked away from the check-in counter to escape your luggage being weighed, only to find security stopping you to weigh your carry-on luggage at the boarding gate?
And as you place your luggage on the scale, your heart sinks as you discover that your luggage is over the limit, so now you have to fork out extra for your bag.
It’s close to peak travel season, and airlines and airports are going to be really strict on the amount of luggage you can carry, especially if you’re flying domestically.
If you fail to pack according to airline regulations, you could find yourself having to pay extra or offloading some of your luggage to meet the weight requirements.
To help you prevent such instances, here are tips on how to pack for your summer adventures.
Focus on lightweight, breathable clothing
When packing for summer travel, prioritise lightweight and breathable clothing.
Fabrics like cotton and linen are ideal for keeping you cool in the heat.
Consider using the 5-4-3-2-1 packing method to create a versatile capsule wardrobe that allows for mixing and matching.
This method ensures you have enough versatile items for your trip while avoiding excess baggage fees.
By planning your outfits and packing strategically, you can enjoy your summer adventures without the stress of overpacking.
This method involves bringing:
5 tops: A variety of shirts, blouses, or lightweight sweaters.
4 bottoms: Pants, shorts, or skirts that coordinate with your tops.
3 pairs of shoes: Choose comfortable footwear suitable for your trip’s activities.
2 layering pieces: These can include a lightweight jacket, cardigan or dress.
1 signature accessory: A versatile item like a hat, bag, scarf or belt.
Clothing essentials for your summer trip
Tops
Pack a mix of short-sleeve and long-sleeve shirts.
Opt for breathable fabrics and consider moisture-wicking t-shirts for hot weather.
Lightweight, light-coloured options are most comfortable in the heat.
Bottoms
Bring a few pairs of shorts and consider one pair of lightweight cotton pants or a skirt.
Convertible pants that zip off into shorts can be a functional option for destinations where you may need to cover up.
Layering pieces
Include one light sweater or cardigan for cooler evenings and a button-down shirt that can be worn over swimwear or as a top.
Swimwear
If you plan on swimming, pack at least one swimsuit.
Dresses and other items
Include one to two versatile dresses or skirts that can be dressed up or down.
Footwear: limit your choices
When it comes to shoes, aim for just a few versatile pairs.
A comfortable pair of sneakers and one pair of sandals or open-toed shoes should suffice.
Wear your bulkiest pair
To save space in your luggage, wear your bulkiest shoes, such as boots or sneakers, during your flight.
Packing your essentials and extras
And lastly, don’t forget to pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays. Make sure that you choose a versatile bag that can be used for day trips or as a beach bag.
Remember to bring travel-sized toiletries and any personal medications you may need. Lastly, a scarf can serve multiple purposes, such as providing warmth or covering up when necessary.
