Traveling can be one of the most memorable and fun-filled experiences in our lives. It can take us to the places we’ve only dreamt of visiting and to worlds of wonder, delight, and pure bliss – that is, until we realize that our luggage is getting awfully heavy from all the cool stuff we bought along the way.
It's Easy to Keep Piling Things In, But Don't!
When getting ready for a big adventure, we usually tend to pack way too much stuff. One time, a student who booked a flight with StudentUniverse brought their dead beetle project to the airport, only to have a whole lot of airport security swarm his luggage. He sent us an email complaining that we didn’t warn him, what were we supposed to say? Uhmm, Thanks for booking your flight with StudentUniverse! – Oh and by the way, please remember not to bring several hundred dead insects with you on your flight?
Students can over pack a bit, and no matter how strong you are, you will end up with strained tendons, backaches, and frazzled nerves. Start from the beginning and avoid packing things that will add bulk to our luggage in the first place, in fact, under pack!
Start with the Basics
Let’s start with the basics. Heavy denims and wool are definite no-no’s, unless you are thinking of going mountain climbing or the North Pole. Denim pants , double knit sweaters and wool coats are way too heavy for traveling. If you do bring denim wear, let them be shorts, so they are lighter.
When traveling, it is best to bring and pack-in lightweight, wrinkle-free or wash-and-wear pants that can be rolled into your bag. The same goes for shirts or travel jackets, of course, try to bring just enough for your planned stay. Avoid bringing too much. Other no-no’s are heavyweight boots, unless you plan on hiking a very rough and tough terrain. Avoid bringing heavy towels, heavy blankets, bulky socks and of course large bottles of cosmetics, lotions, shampoos, perfumes or repellents. Opt for small lightweight bottles or even sachets placed in one compact container. If you’re planning to go camping, you can purchase your essentials in a convenience store nearest your destination.
Leave the Hardcover Edition at Home
If you are thinking of going to the beach and relaxing with a book (paperback!), don’t be tempted to bring heavy, cloth-bound originals, your best choice are thin pocketbooks or better still buy an e-book in your hand-held. Anyway if you are traveling , you’re probably on vacation or on a much-awaited break – so why read thick books? Even if you plan to have a fun-filled sports-centered vacation, do avoid bringing heavy equipments. You can always rent these out from sports centers.
Be careful also with those souvenirs, your ninja blades and throwing stars in your carry-on might end up in the trash. The best thing that you can do is call your airline in advance or visit the TSA for the latest rules and regulations.