Packing Tips of Experienced Travelers

Packing Tips of

Experienced TravelersAshu Bhandari

Packing Tips of Experienced Travelers

A part-time business consultant, Ashu Bhandari formally retired in 2010, and

generally does not rely on his consulting work for his regular income. As he

winds down from the life of the active businessman to that of a retired

person, Ashu Bhandari finds himself with more time to enjoy some of the

activities he’s so fond of, especially traveling to various locations around

the world.


Whether traveling by boat or aircraft, packing well is critical to an

enjoyable trip. The best approach is to start with a list prepared in advance,

based on the trip’s itinerary. This helps reduce the potential for

overpacking, as well as for forgetting to pack something. Experienced

travelers also recommend rolling clothing, rather than simply folding it and

laying it flat; in addition to reducing the inevitable wrinkling, this will

increase the amount of clothing that will fit into a piece of luggage.


When traveling by air, passengers should always carry essential items, such

as prescription medications, in their carry-on baggage. Many travelers also

find it prudent to include a light jacket or sweater in their carry-on luggage,

in case the aircraft’s air conditioning causes discomfort.


All packing should account for security considerations as well. The 3-1-1 rule

enforced by the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) limits the

quantity of liquids and gels passengers may take onto an aircraft in their

carry-on baggage. In addition to such things as shampoo, mouthwash, and

hand creams, this category also includes such items as peanut butter and

cake icing; TSA’s website contains a comprehensive list. Passengers

generally may carry several liquids and gels, but no more than 3.4 ounces

of any one of these in their carry-on baggage. In addition, all containers of

liquid or gel must be enclosed in a one-quart zip-lock bag, and each

passenger may have only one such bag. The TSA will permit larger

quantities of liquid medications, baby formula or food, and breast milk, if

they’re in reasonable quantities and declared at the security checkpoint.