While in the army, I learned to do one thing well, pack for maximum effect. I made good use of little space to be able to carry uniforms and civilian clothes to all points of the world. Sometimes that meant carrying multiple bags during major moves or just a quick back for short trips and vacations.
For best packing, select a duffle or carryon suitcase that you know will fit in the overhead bin. Currently, a 45” bag is accepted on all flights. A 45” bag is usually constructed of a 22" x 14" x 9". Plenty big enough for a three or four day journey, working travel or vacation. Keep in mind that you can carry other personal items such as purses or laptops bags. This will help you maximize carrying space and give you more convenience. For example, you won’t have to go into your stowed carry on if you have your personal item (laptop) under your seat.
Make sure the carryon bag is constructed well. Zero degree turn radius and smoothly rolling wheels are a plus, but do what your budget can afford. The last thing you want is for your bag to slow you down while negotiating a long and busy last minute gate change or flight delay.
Pack for effect. Since you might be Hilton hopping, you should be able to live out of your bag. No need to unpack your suitcase every night if you pack right. Some helpful suggestions include:
Pack mix and match cloths. Blue or black pants and business khaki trousers are great. Pack complimenting shirts and ties and you can reduce your volume. For example, wear navy pants and blue striped shirt on Monday’s travel day, Tuesday wear Khaki pants and white shirt, Wed wear Monday’s pants and green shirt, and Thursday wear Tuesday’s pants and Monday’s shirt. On Friday’s travel day, wear anything you want. You’ve just got five days of wear from two pants and three shirts. With a little experience and confidence you can probably cut it down.
Protect dress clothes with plastic. You can use dry clean plastic backs to pack your clothes. Wrapping in something like a plastic bag or cardboard gift box can protect your business and casual wardrobe. You can line layers of clothing with bags to prevent wrinkling.
Wear one pair and pack one pair of shoes. Make sure you have a good pair of shoes for recreation or casual dining. If you like to work out, the second pair of shoes can be athletic. If you decide to pack more shoes, just remember, shoes can be filled with socks and other small packing articles
Bring a bathing suit or workout clothes. You don’t need more than two outfits depending on how much you like to work out. Make sure they are the kind that dry quickly. That way you can easily pack as they dry overnight. Working out while Hilton hopping may need to be done at night so your clothes have a chance to dry before being re-packed. If not, pack them in a plastic bag and be sure to unpack them when you check into your next room.
Viola, pack right and you too can be ready for Hilton hopping.
No comments:
Post a Comment