Having clocked 50+ flights annually over the past decade, I’ve racked up my share of frequent flyer miles and travel tales. But when COVID-19 hit, even seasoned travelers like me got grounded.

The Bag Breakdown

Carry-On Charm: Tailored for short 2-4 day trips. Who knew you could fit a weekend into a small bag?

Medium Magic: Holds its own for up to 10 days. It’s the Goldilocks of luggage—just right.

The Generous Giant: Ideal for shopping sprees and long vacations. For business trips? Maybe not unless you’re transporting the office coffee 

Invest in Quality: A smooth wheeling experience (hello, Hinomoto!) and durable zippers can make or break your journey or a hard side with reliable zippers. While a hot pink bag might turn heads, muted colors are a safer bet for business trips.

Backpack Brilliance: This unsung hero should be sturdy, with lots of zippered compartments. Hartmanns and Tumi have proven to be reliable companions over the years. A sleeve that smoothly slips over your suitcase is a bonus.  Backpacks are good for your shoulders, but other options can be more formal in office settings.  Pay attention to the sleeve that slides over your luggage handles, should not make the bag tip forward.

Shopping Tip: If you’re in the market for luggage, the US often offers enticing deals.

Packing Like a Pro:

Organize to Optimize: Designate spots for all your items, especially in your office bag. Chargers, devices, and passports should have a dedicated nook. This way, the security check line won’t feel like an endless game of hide and seek.

Suited and Booted: Consider suitcases with internal sleeves to keep your suits wrinkle-free. The more organized your suitcase, the smoother your trip.

Roll Over Fold: Rolling T-shirts will save space and might even spark joy. It’s almost therapeutic!

Step Right: Shoes should be packed with care. Sneakers are best worn during flights to account for foot swelling. A separate shoe bag for formals (one each for left/right) protects your precious pairs from scuffs and scratches. Carry a pair of flip-flops for hotel rooms.

Planned Packing: Before shoving everything into your suitcase, lay out your outfits. You’ll thank yourself later when you avoid overpacking.  You will end up overpacking mostly so leave out all unnecessary stuff.  Put things in things. Socks into shoes for instance if you are short on space. Remember, while coming back – your bag is usually more full. Carry a laundry bag for soiled clothes.

Liquids and Little Bottles: Reduce your liquids when flying. Muji’s petite bottles can decant your favorite products, ensuring consistency across different hotels. A toiletry bag with a hook is helpful, as it can be hung at the back of a shaving mirror.

Final Thoughts:

Wherever possible, aim for carry-ons to avoid the carousel wait. But if a colleague checks in their luggage, prepare for some baggage belt bonding time!

Safe and savvy travels to you! More to follow….