Travelling can be one of life's greatest joys, especially for those of us who have reached the age where we can appreciate the finer details of a well-planned trip. Whether you're jetting off to visit the grandkids or embarking on that European river cruise you've always dreamed of. Packing can be a bit of a puzzle. You want to be prepared for every occasion without lugging around a suitcase that weighs as much as a small car.

Fortunately, luggage experts have honed the art of packing to a science, and we've got the inside scoop to help you keep your suitcase light without leaving behind the essentials. Veronica Lette from American Tourister has shared her top tips with 9Travel, and we're here to pass on that wisdom, along with a few extra nuggets of advice tailored for our seasoned travellers.

The cornerstone of Veronica's advice is to be highly selective with what you pack. This means leaving behind the 'just in case' items that often go unused. Instead, focus on packing pieces that can work interchangeably. A capsule wardrobe is your best friend here, allowing you to mix and match a small selection of garments to create multiple outfits. This approach not only saves space but also keeps your suitcase's weight down.

A luggage expert advised packing selectively, avoiding 'just in case' items, and choosing interchangeable pieces for a capsule wardrobe. Credit: Shutterstock

Creating a packing list is another essential step. It helps you visualize what you truly need and prevents last-minute additions that can tip the scales. Remember to consider the climate of your destination. If you're heading to warmer regions, you'll likely need to wash clothes more frequently due to the heat. Conversely, in cooler climates, you can get away with wearing items multiple times. Layering is key for changing climates, with lightweight thermal tops and raincoats being invaluable for staying warm without adding bulk.

Shoes are often the bulkiest items in our luggage, so Veronica recommends reducing them to the bare minimum. A pair of comfortable sneakers, flip-flops, and a set of nice sandals should cover all your bases, from a casual walk to a fancy dinner.

Now, let's talk about Veronica's number one packing rule: using compression packing cubes. These nifty organizers not only keep your suitcase tidy but also compress your clothes to take up less space. They double as laundry bags, keeping your dirty clothes separate from the clean ones.

Toiletries are another area where travellers tend to overpack. Simplify your skincare and makeup routine for your travels, and embrace the freedom of a pared-down regimen. Using a clear bag for your carry-on liquids can help you stick to the essentials and avoid overpacking.

Lastly, the suitcase itself matters. Starting with a lightweight, spacious option can make all the difference. American Tourister offers a range of ultra-light suitcases that are perfect for senior travellers looking to keep their load manageable.

Remember, the goal is to enjoy your travels without being weighed down by your belongings. With these expert tips, you'll be able to pack like a pro and focus on making memories rather than managing your luggage. So, before you next set off on your adventure, take a moment to reevaluate your packing strategy. Your back—and your wallet, when you avoid those excess baggage fees—will thank you.

Key Takeaways

• A luggage expert suggests being highly selective when packing, avoiding 'just in case' items, and focusing on interchangeable pieces for a capsule wardrobe.
• Using packing cubes, particularly compression ones, is recommended to keep luggage organised and limit the amount that can be packed.
• Reducing the number of shoes packed and tailoring clothing choices to the climate of the destination can help keep suitcase weight down.
• It's advised to cut down on toiletries, embrace a reduced routine while travelling, and consider starting with an ultra-light suitcase to minimise overall weight.

We'd love to hear from you, our savvy senior travellers! What are your tried-and-true packing tips? Share your wisdom in the comments below, and let's help each other travel lighter and smarter.

 

[PattiB]

My packing is improving. I used to travel to Perth with a suitcase about a kilo under the limit and have reduced this to about 15 kilos. I still take too much considering we stay with our son & can launder stuff easily. This year I’ve already had Priceline deliver toiletries, skin care needs, shampoo etc to my son’s house so that will lighten the load, hopefully. At least I haven’t had to have books delivered this year, love my Ereader but will still take a book to read on the plane. Never know when a large book might come in handy.