No matter if you are going to live out of your backpack or suitcase for a long or short time, it is always a bit awkward. Packing can therefore become a stressful event but it doesn't have to be at all. With these handy tips, you'll have your backpack or suitcase packed in no time!
Packing list
Packing using a packing list
Tip 1, sounds logical but this is an important start. First collect all the things you want to take with you before you start packing. This creates overview and you can immediately see whether you have too much or too little ready. Do you doubt whether you have everything? Download our packing list.
Be picky and organised
Filling to the weight allowed by the airline is not necessary. Especially when travelling with a backpack, you should keep the weight as low as possible.
- Make sets clothes
- Bring clothes that match the weather of your travel destination
- Roll up your clothes
- Tuck your socks into your shoes
- Take small toiletries with you
- Pack laundry detergent or have your clothes washed on the go
Pack with packing cubes!
A packing cube is a small bag designed to organise clothes in your luggage, giving you more space. Packing cubes are mostly used by backpackers but we recommend them to everyone. After all, they allow you to pack in an organised way without any hassle. You can easily order packing cubes online or make them yourself. Read the different options below to find the packing cube that fits your budget.
Plastic bags
- Cheap
- Easy to replace
- Available worldwide
- Disadvantage: not easy to close
- Disadvantage: Can be cluttered in your suitcase or packback
Fabric bags - our favourite
- Relatively cheap - Tip: Available from as little as €6 at Ikea.
- Available in different sizes
- Lockable with zip
- Disadvantage: not easily available abroad
- Downside: You have to be careful with the zip.
Vacuum bags
- Relatively cheap - Tip: Available from as little as €6 at Hema
- Available in different sizes
- Disadvantage: special closure, if it tears, the bag is no longer usable.
- Disadvantage: hoover or pump required
Ready....set...wrapping up
Once you have everything ready, you can almost start packing! Check out the tips below to set up your backpack or suitcase quickly and efficiently.
- Divide your clothes between the different packing cubes
- Forget your books! Opt for an e-reader
Tip: If you don't want to buy an e-reader, many hostels or hotels offer the option of borrowing or exchanging books.
- Always keep room for souvenirs.
- Make use of your hand luggage here you are also allowed quite a few kilos.
Tips for efficiently packing your backpack
Packing a suitcase is not that complicated. You place all your items in the suitcase and zip it up! However, we do often get the question; How should I pack my backpack? It is important to think about this carefully because you often carry a backpack on your back during long trips. If it is not packed properly, your back will suffer.
- Heavy stuff against your back above your hips
- Light stuff goes at the top.
- Clothing in the middle