The 8 tips you need to know, from our unofficial chief packing adviser
We caught up with professional organiser Vicky Silverthorn for the packing tips we all need to know. Whether you're planning a sojourn to the Amalfi coast, getting stuck into the souks in Fez or diving into the crystal clear waters of the Maldives; these tips will get you in holiday gear the moment you set out your suitcase. Read on for Vicky’s eight tips for how to pack like a pro…
1. Create a holiday box
Store this separately from your day-to-day clothes, such as at the top of a wardrobe with a neat label on it, so that it frees up space. It should contain anything you only wear or use when you’re going on holiday. It will make packing your suitcase a lot easier when the time comes.
2. Declutter as you go
If you’ve packed an item in your luggage to go away with, and it has returned unworn, it’s time to ask why. Assess what you have and haven’t used and declutter as you go.
Our 3. Methodical packing
Make your bed and start laying outfits out—not simply random items of clothing you think you need to take—just outfits. Bottoms can have two or more tops and shoes can fit several outfits. This method will stop you over packing and give you a clear visual of how much you’re taking in your luggage. Without a doubt you’ll edit it down easily before it goes in your suitcase.
4. Use packing cubes
There is no such thing as being too organised when it comes to packing. Use packing cubes to divide your clothes into evening and daytime. Use one for those travel accessories or underwear that would otherwise fall about your suitcase, and don’t forget to take an empty one to bring your laundry back in.
Pack them full, zip them up and compress them down. Ta da!5. Don’t forget the shoe bags
I am still shocked at how many people don’t pack their shoes in bags! Think where they’ve been and where we walk. Think about the fact that without a shoe bag they are then on our lovely clean clothes… I don’t think you should need much more convincing.
6. Think practically
If you’re travelling in the evening, pack pyjamas and a wash bag last. They will then be first out when you’re tired on arrival, so you can head straight to bed.
These handy shoe bags come in both grey and black.7. Take skinny hangers
These types of hangers fit flat within your case and don’t take up much room. If you’re someone who likes to hang your clothes, take a few extra as hotels often don’t have enough.
8. Have a permanent packing list
Keep it on your phone in the notes section and add to it on each trip you go on. This is your ‘What have I forgotten?’ reference point. Life is busy, and sometimes it’s the most obvious things of all that we forget, so this will stop that happening
Vicky Silverthorn is a London based professional organiser, implementing simple, practical systems to organise homes and spaces. www.youneedavicky.com
