Save a Buck: Sky-high Luggage
With most airlines now charging to check a second piece of luggage—and some charging for the first—smart packing of carry-on luggage can be a real money saver. But that doesn’t necessarily mean packing more; it’s packing better, says Susan Foster, author of Smart Packing for Today’s Traveler. Her travel advice:
- Shoes take the most luggage room, so fewer is better. Even for long trips, men can usually get by with packing one pair (and wearing another); women should pack only two, not counting flip-flops. Put rolled socks and underwear inside shoes.
- A merino wool sweater packs smaller than a sweatshirt; microfiber slacks pack smaller than jeans. Fabrics that are blends—cotton mixed with polyester or high-tech synthetics such as polyester microfiber—are more wrinkle-proof. “Wicking” fabrics can be washed in the hotel bathroom sink and dry overnight.
- When packing, “roll” knits and casual clothing and stack; dress shirts and woven fabrics should be packed flat, then layered with dry-cleaning bags or tissue paper between them.
- Avoid wasting space (and Transportation Security Administration hassles) by buying toiletries at your destination. To avoid the three-ounce limit, opt for nonliquid items—stick deodorant, powder makeup, packets (not bottles) of shampoo.
- Airline charges for checked luggage continue to change, so call your airline or visit its website prior to departure.
