Samsonite<\/a>, myself) aren\u2019t just durable and long-lasting – they\u2019re lighter and often, far more practical in terms of their design, so definitely consider splurging to make every trip that little bit easier.<\/p>\nIf it\u2019s not the time to upgrade however, make use of what you have and challenge yourself to start with the smallest bags first. This way, you can only take so much.<\/p>\n
3. Labelled packing cubes<\/h2>\n
In a small bag, space is important. That\u2019s why I love packing cubes \u2013 they save space AND help you organise everything. If you\u2019re packing everyone\u2019s stuff in one bag, make sure everyone has their own cubes and that they\u2019re clearly labelled – or, go for a different colour per family member so you can immediately see what\u2019s what<\/span>. Don\u2019t go past packing sacks either for bundling chargers, cables and other odds and ends. Trust me, you\u2019ll save so much time and clutter with this method ?<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-www-wotif-com\/2021\/03\/2021\/03\/2021\/03\/2021\/03\/2021\/03\/2021\/03\/5860ce31-istock-477515135.jpg\")
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4. Grab bag<\/h2>\n
In addition to the main suitcases heading into the boot or under the plane, pack all your essentials in one single day bag (or grab bag) that you can keep on your lap or at your feet. What goes in the grab bag? Paperwork, IDs, chargers, favourite toys \u2013 you know the drill. Everything you need on-hand and in a jiffy should be carried in one backpack, ready to go. This\u2019ll help save space in your luggage and<\/em> give you easy access to what\u2019s truly essential.<\/p>\n5. Consider your clothing<\/h2>\n
Get the most out of your suitcases by being smart about the type of clothes you (and the whole family!) pack. Activewear isn\u2018t just great for outdoor adventures – it\u2019s also super comfy for transit, as a second pajama set and, most importantly, it weighs way less than jeans. You can also aim to share items between family members where possible. Use big beach towels that you can share between two little ones and take refillable toiletry containers that you can all share.<\/p>\n
Don\u2019t forget that it\u2019s not just the type of clothing that can cut down on luggage weight – it\u2019s the hue, too! Dark-coloured options hide so many sins (what dirt?!) and minimise the necessity to wash after one wear. Not only will it make your bags lighter, it\u2019ll cut down on the laundry pile when you get back home ?<\/p>\n
6. Choose your accommodation carefully<\/h2>\n
Speaking of laundry, it might be the last thing you want to do on holiday but if you\u2019re a family that struggles with a suitcase zip before every holiday, you might want to consider a hotel room or property that has laundry facilities. A quick spin of the family\u2019s clothes a couple of times while you\u2019re away won\u2019t feel half as bad as throwing on a dusty, dirty tee for the final four days of your trip.<\/p>\n
Also, choosing your accommodation accordingly (or calling the place you\u2018ve already booked ahead of time to check what they have on hand) means you could cut down on all the necessary kid paraphernalia. If there\u2019s a high chair, travel cot, pack-n-play and bath in the property, awesome! You\u2019ve just eliminated a few extras things from your packing list ?<\/span><\/p>\n7. Bring bars<\/h2>\n
Skip the hefty plastic bottles and swap your toiletries for the bar version – you\u2019ll be amazed at how much space this\u2019ll save. Body wash, facial cleansers, shampoo and conditioner bars (yep, they all exist and can be bought from major stores!) stowed in simple Ziploc bags will last longer and and take up less room ?<\/p>\n
8. Don\u2019t pack what you can buy<\/h2>\n
Unless you\u2019re heading to a super remote holiday location, there\u2019s little point carting around things that can easily be purchased at your destination, especially if they\u2019re non-essential. It\u2019s highly unlikely that you\u2019ll be anywhere without access to food, extra nappies, or even games and activities for the kids (every town has a newsagent with puzzle mags for kids, right?).<\/p>\n