Packing 101

It's all about the packing, though I confess it's taken me eleven years of travelling the globe to realise this!

My first trip abroad happened when I was 18. Alone, I carried three huge and heavy suitcases. What was in them? Art supplies, several cameras, shoes for every day, lots of books, tapes (this was 1992!) and a walkman. Trying to maneuver all this through turnstiles at airports and train stations left me a mess although it taught me to pack lighter for next time.

Eleven years and hundreds of trips later, I now only carry one carry on bag no matter where or for how long.

Investing in a Rick Steve’s Travel bag turned out to be the best thing I as a traveller could do. Holding everything I need from clothes, to shoes, to toiletries, it's big enough for long trips but convenient for short weekend getaways. The biggest plus? It fits perfectly into overhead cabins – no more checking in luggage and wondering if it'll arrive at the same destination!

I used it as a backpack for a three-week whirlwind trip in Europe. It was easy to carry and I had everything I need, from dressy clothes to casual day wear. Even had room for the odd souvenir.

As my travels pick up in the next several months, I decided to take my packing one step further. I invested in Ebags Packing Cubes and shoe bag (sold separately). Compartmentalizing clothes, undergarments and shoes makes for an even easier trip, especially with heightened security and more bag searches. No more rummaging around one bag, all I have to do is whip out a cube.

Having everything in its place makes it easier (as does always having a stocked toiletry bag for quick getaways!).