Make a copy of your passport, birth certificate, driver’s license, credit cards (both sides), and any other important documents before you travel. Give those copies to a relative or close friend before you leave. In case these documents are stolen or lost, you will have copies to use to get the originals replaced.
Have you ever used those space saving bags inside your luggage when you travel? They shrink the clothes in them by removing the air. If you are taking bulky sweaters, jackets, or any items that take up extra room…these work great.
You can buy the travel version of these that don’t need a vacuum to operate. Or, you can try it on your own with large zip topped bags. Fill the bag and squeeze out as much air as possible. You will be amazed at how much space you can save.
What happens when your suitcase is stuffed full and there are still a few leftover items that need to go in it?
Try zipping it closed, standing it up, and then re-opening it. You may find there are a few spaces without anything in them…corners, spaces between shoes, etc. It just may be enough space to fit in those few items still left on your bed.
You’ve probably read that if you roll your clothes before placing them in your suitcase, you will be able to fit more. Plus, clothes don’t wrinkle as much.
Those are true for me. There are some other tricks that work for me as well.
Layer thin sheets of tissue paper on your clothes before you roll them. For some reason my clothes wrinkle even less than just being rolled.
Try stuffing your shoes with smaller items. Socks, underwear, belts, and t-shirts are some items that fit nicely in shoes. If you lay your shoes on their sides, you can also maximize space.