The Luggage Blog

By now you’ve probably heard of  the list of fees for checking your luggage.  So now your trying to figure out “How to get it all in one carry-on”? Well, here are some helpful tips:

 1) Prepare

• Make a packing list, then try to cross off half of it!
• Be realistic. Think about where your headed and rule out anything that you won’t need.
• Use a less structured bag (Ex: a bag with flexible fabric or without a frame) 

2) Pack Less

• Sure those heels make your legs look longer, but they’re hard on your feet. Stick to one pair of comfortable shoes.
• Wear your bulkiest pair of shoes to save space.
• Use travel size bottles…which of course takes up less room.
• Remove interior accessories from suitcase that are not needed…such as suiter sleeve.
• Think 2-in-1. Get yourself a pair of convertible pants-to-shorts and that’s one less thing to worry about.
• Use ExOfficio buzz-off clothes so you don’t need to pack bug spray.
• Also use ExOfficio undergarments…they air dry within hours. You can wash as you go, so you only need one pair!
• Pack crushable hats (Ex: Wallaroo) and travel jackets (Ex: UBU) Both are a must!

3) Pack Smart

• Color coordinate your accessories to match all outfits
• Use the space inside of your shoes to pack belts, socks or other accessories.
• Use Packing Folders …they keep you organized, wrinkle free and compress air..which takes up the most space.
• If you use an Expandable suitcase, pack it full expanded, then sit on it and crush it and zip it back shut! This will eliminate any extra space.

Photo by Decor8

If you haven’t heard of the outdoor and travel clothing company,, you have got to check them out!  ExOfficio is dedicated to making clothing as adventurous as you and if you’re the outdoor or travel enthusiast then you may just have to try it out!  ExOfficio undergarments have innovative features such as built-in UV protection and bug repellent.  ExOfficio undergarments are odor resistant, eco-friendly and packable; so if your planning on taking that cross country adventure or want to pack less…try ExOfficio and you won’t be disappointed! 

View ExOfficio on Luggage Online.

1) Try to carry-on

• When choosing a bag make sure it’s a guaranteed carry-on or you may pay fees.

• No, really! The airlines are checking what size bag you have.

2) If you must check

• Try to only check 1 bag per person

• You should probably pack in a 26” because most likely you’ll over-pack in a 30” and you don’t want those overweight fees!

3) Be sure to have your own scale

• Make sure you weigh your luggage before you get to the airport…so you don’t have to rearrange when you get there.

• If your bag is over 50lbs, it’s better to pack into 2 bags because it will cost a lot less than paying for overweight fees.

• Use travel size bottles…there is no need to bring big bottles, they will only make your bag heavier.

• Wear your heavier clothing and shoes on the plane, since it will only weigh your bag down if you pack your heavier items.

4) Don’t pack too much clothing.

• Pack ExOfficio undergarments, you don’t need many at all.

About ExOfficio products: 17 countries, 6 weeks, and 1 pair of underwear: the Give-n-Go Brief. This is the one pair that you want in your suitcase. It’s odor resistant and moist wicking.  Plus you can wash and hang it to dry, and you’re ready to go for your next adventure. ExOfficio clothing field-tested and approved by the African Wildlife Foundation.

• Be sure your accessories match all outfits, so you don’t have to pack a lot of accessories.

• Never pack more than 2 pairs of shoes, it’s unnecessary, takes up space and weighs your bag down.

5) Additional Important Tips to Remember

• Make sure you double check with your airline for a list of up-to date fees before your trip.

• Bring your own headphones, some airlines are charging for them.

• Bring your own snacks…checkout this list of tips for food and make sure the snacks that you want to bring are allowed (check with the TSA prohibited items list).

Traveling green isn’t as difficult as you might think… in fact it could be as simple as a walk in the park!  Here are some tips on ways you can travel eco-friendly.  (We promise they’re not all that corny!)

1. Visit A Green Location

• Travel to a walkable city
• Go on a camping or hiking trip
• Visit National Wildlife sites or National Parks
• Visit one of the 7 US Eco-Travel Destinations

2. Stay at a Green Hotel

Some hotels offer free parking for hybrids, use energy efficient light bulbs and appliances, and even provide space for Eco organizations.  For more information, check out American’s 10 most Green Hotels

3. Travel Locally

• Reduce fuel consumption (and save on fuel costs)
• Eat and drink locally and support businesses that don’t import food

4. Use Green Modes of Transportation

• Drive, don’t fly
• Take a bus or train
• Rent a hybrid
• If you do fly, be sure to [Read more →]