Title:
The Ultimate Guide to Packing for Your Next Holiday: Why Folding is the Best Technique
Content:
Are you struggling to pack everything you need for your holiday into a small suitcase? The task can be daunting, with conflicting advice on folding, rolling, using packing cubes, or compression cubes. But fear not, a recent investigation has revealed the ultimate packing technique that will revolutionize the way you pack your bags.
Why Folding Trumps Rolling and Other Techniques
If you’ve been rolling your clothes to save space, it’s time to reconsider. According to a study by Which?, folding was found to be the best – and cheapest – technique for efficient packing. The study found that using the classic folding method with four different travel bags allowed them to fit an impressive 67 pieces of clothing into an underseat travel bag. In comparison, rolling only accommodated 60 items, vacuum bags held 60 pieces, packing cubes fit 66 items but left gaps, and compression cubes and vacuum packing lagged behind with 118 and 113 items, respectively.
The Science Behind Folding: Best Approach to Packing
The research highlighted the efficiency of folding in suitcases that opened fully with square corners. Although folding resulted in less neat packing, it was still the most effective way to maximize space and fit the most items. This method was described as “no faff and free,” emphasizing the ease and convenience of folding clothes for travel.
The Downside of Rolling and Vacuum Bags
While rolling may leave clothes less creased, it was noted to be a more labor-intensive method, especially for longer or wider clothing items. Vacuum bags, although efficient in shrinking clothes, proved bulky to fit and left items wrinkled. Compression cubes, praised for organization and accessibility, posed challenges in overfilling and required additional adjustments, adding more time to the packing process.
Expert Packing Tips: Rules to Live By
Packing experts have shared their tried-and-tested packing rules to streamline the process. Daniel Green, owner of travel insurance company Faye, recommended the 1-2-3-4-5-6 rule: one hat, two pairs of shoes, three bottoms, four tops, five pairs of socks, and six pairs of underwear. Meanwhile, seasoned flyer Tom Stucker advocated for the “plus one” rule, emphasizing packing only essential items with a backup plan in mind.
Hand Luggage Rules for UK Airlines
To ensure a hassle-free travel experience, familiarize yourself with the hand luggage rules for major UK airlines:
- Ryanair: One personal bag measuring no more than 40cm x 20cm x 25cm
- EasyJet: One personal bag measuring no larger than 45cm x 36cm x 20cm
- Jet2: One personal item and one cabin bag weighing up to 10kg
- TUI: One personal item and one cabin bag weighing up to 10kg
- British Airways: One personal bag and one cabin bag weighing up to 23kg
- Virgin Atlantic: One personal item and one cabin bag weighing up to 10kg
Next time you pack for a trip, remember that efficient folding is the key to maximizing space and minimizing stress. Skip the fancy packing gadgets and embrace the simplicity of folding for a seamless travel experience. Happy packing!