His and Hers: Packing the Perfect Carry-on

From khakis and pullovers to cardigans and jewelry, here are tips for men and women to get maximum efficiency out of a carry-on bag.

By Christine Ajudua, Jessica Shaw, Rima Suqi, Travel+Leisure

When it comes to an urban travel wardrobe, men are lucky—they can get away with a basic uniform, built around a button-down shirt, jeans or khakis, and a sweater or blazer. It’s important to pack neutral colors that can mix and match. With the following pieces, you’ll be able to go the distance.

His: Tips for the Perfect Carry-on

1. Wrinkle-free fabrics do matter

A number of companies are reinventing the classic button-down in high-tech fabrics that repel stains and creases.

2. Wear your blazer

A sport jacket in a dark color works in every situation, from the airplane to dinner at the restaurant.

3. Pile on the layers

A basic pullover is a travel staple. Pair it with a collared shirt and tie for a polished nighttime look; a T-shirt works during the day. Vests are also great for layering. They’re an easy add-on and very much in style this season. Go for a lighter weight, as it will travel best.

4. Two pairs of pants will do the job

Pack khakis and black trousers, which can be laundered as you go.

5. Jeans will go the distance

Dark-washed denim travels well.

6. Put your best foot forward

Look for walking shoes or dark sneakers that are smart enough to wear out at night, but also comfortable for sightseeing.

7. Protect your clothing from spills

Ensure that your Dopp kit will actually keep liquids contained if something leaks. (If not, use Ziploc bags.) Another idea to keep your bag light: bring grooming products that multitask. Many shower gels on the market double as shampoo and face wash. And instead of shaving cream, try an oil—it eliminates the need for aftershave lotion.

8. Make sure your carry-on can be carried on

Check the airline’s website for size and weight requirements, which can vary.

Hers: Tips for the Perfect Carry-on

For most women, traveling light is a challenge. Our rule: every piece must be able to multitask. Limit your color palette, opt for solids or simple prints, and choose items that can be layered. And always look for wrinkle-free fabrics. Stick to these strategies and you may never have to check a bag again.

1. A basic dress will work wonders

Choose a solid color that can transition easily from day to night and will coordinate with other items in your wardrobe.

2. Three pairs of pants is all you need

Denim can be dressed up or down—especially darker washes. Black pants are another travel staple. They go with almost everything, and they don't get as dirty as other colors. And why not take your yoga pants beyond the studio: when paired with a cardigan, knit top, and ballet flats, they can be worn during the day.

3. Top it off

Bring a stylish top—it’s a quick way to create a chic outfit. You can also layer it under a cardigan for a more casual daytime look.

4. Stock up on simple long- and short-sleeved T’s

They’re great basics that can be layered under almost anything or worn on their own.

5. You can’t go wrong with a white shirt

A simple button-down works anywhere—on a gallery visit or for a night on the town.

6. Accessorize

Have fun with your jewelry, which doesn’t take up much space, yet makes every outfit seem new. Also, don’t underestimate the value of a belt. Just as jewelry will spice up an outfit, it can create a new look.

7. Limit yourself to three pairs of shoes

That’s it: a pair of flats, sensible heels to go out at night, and athletic shoes for exercise and pounding the pavement.

8. Embrace a cardigan

It can help transform an outfit. Lightweight knit cashmere travels best. A shawl will work, too. You can wear it on the plane, and it can be used as an evening wrap or accent piece.

9. And lastly, don't let your suitcase weigh you down

Make sure your bag is light enough to lift into the overhead.


Source: MSN Travel

Packing Tips for the Smart Traveler

With ever-changing airline rules and restrictions, packing can be a nightmare—but it doesn’t have to be. Here are some of the latest techniques for stress-free packing.

By Christine Ajudua, Jessica Shaw, Rima Suqi, Travel+Leisure

How to pack in five easy steps

Our easy-to-follow instructions for organizing your suitcase—and techniques for folding and rolling your clothes for a wrinkle-free arrival.

1. Distribute weight intelligently

Put heavier items on the bottom of your suitcase. This includes shoes (in shoe bags), rolled jeans, and blazers (folded into dry-cleaner bags). Lighter pieces go at the top.

2. Use bags to organize

Ziplocs are great for small accessories and toiletries. If you’re not checking, make sure cosmetics are on the top of your packed suitcase, for easy access as you go through security. To protect undergarments from damage (and prying TSA agents), place them in a lingerie bag.

3. Roll your casual clothes

This approach minimizes creasing and maximizes space. It’s best for lighter-weight pieces—cotton shirts, khakis, jeans—not bulkier items like sweaters (see step 4). Put compactly rolled pieces in organization cubes to create extra room. Roll smaller items (yoga pants, socks) and use them to fill in air holes.

4. Fold sweaters and delicate items

Bulky articles should be folded and placed in compression sacks, like the Spacepak Bags from Flight 001. Delicate pieces can be protected from wrinkles by using tissue paper and dry-cleaner bags. Dress shirts and skirts should be folded and separated by tissue paper.

5. Don’t forget the laundry

Bring a laundry sack (or extra-large Ziploc) and stuff it with a few dryer sheets to keep everything smelling fresh. Put it at the back of the suitcase, so that clean clothes are easily accessible during the trip.


Pre-packing checklist

How can you prepare for next trip? Here, T+L offers our checklist of eight simple—yet easily forgotten—steps to take before departure.

One week before takeoff

Freshen up your Suitcases
Air out your bags before you pack. And next time you put luggage away, leave lavender sachets by L’Occitane en Provence (loccitane.com) in the pockets.

Stock up on storage bags for small items
Our favorites: Stephanie Johnson (stephaniejohnson.com) designs stylish Dopp kits with protective plastic interiors; a nylon-lined cotton sack by Zazendi (zazendi.com) is well suited for wet swim gear; and the drawstring laundry bag by Flight 001 (flight001.com) is treated with polyurethane, which keeps odors under wraps.

Three days before takeoff

Get your gadgets in order
Empty memory cards and charge your phone and camera. Consolidate power cords, chargers, and extra batteries in your carry-on (new DOT regulations prohibit putting them in checked luggage). Pick up the Tumi Electronics Charger Kit (tumi.com), with adapters that work in 150 countries.

Refill necessary prescriptions
Bring medications with you on the plane; make sure they are properly labeled according to TSA requirements.

Copy important documents
Carry paper duplicates of your passport, visa, and itinerary, and e-mail yourself electronic copies. With a password-protected itinerary on Google Docs, close friends and family can keep track of where you are.

Pare down your travel wallet
Only bring essential documents: driver’s license, medical insurance cards, passport, and credit cards. (T+L Tip: Alert your bank and credit card companies before you depart, so that they won’t be alarmed by out-of-town charges and ATM withdrawals.)

One day before takeoff

Record the contents of your suitcase.
Take pictures of your clothes, shoes, and jewelry, which will serve as documentation if your bag is lost or stolen. Download the shots onto your home computer, just in case.


Source: MSN Travel