The Art of Packing: Tips From Very Travellers and Adventurers
Creatives, execs, journalists and a pilot share their non-negotiable packing rules, hard-earned luggage lore and the items they’d never travel without.
I recently returned from a trip overseas, for which I’d seriously underpacked. I was so fixated on not overpacking, I went too lean.
I’m not an infrequent traveller, but I always feel I could be packing better: more efficiently, more appropriately, more conveniently. If only I’d had the advice of our round table of frequent travellers before my latest voyage.
Alexandra Carlton, journalist and Oceania academy chair for World’s 50 Best Restaurants
How often do you travel?
Around 10 times per year internationally, and perhaps six or eight times a year domestically.
What are you typically packing for?
I’m always working, but this could mean anything from an adventure-based travel story to fine dining in the Himalayas, to a cruise, to a city stay. I generally have to pack for a lot of different circumstances in one trip.
What is your approach to packing?
I overpack. Always. There’s a special place in hell for people who only pack carry-on and then hold up the security line flinging undies everywhere as they dig out their shampoos and chargers. I pack checked luggage like a grown-up, and then lavishly pack outfits for every scenario and weather situation so I’m never caught short for a casual lunch or a formal dinner or a rainy day exploring a city.
What is your best packing hack or tip?
My ironclad rule is that I only ever pack the day of travel. Never, ever the night before. Doesn’t matter how early I need to get up, that’s the method. I can think of no better way to forget essentials than three-quarters packing the night before but then “leaving things out” because you’ll need to use them in the morning to get ready. Chaos. The rule is: Get up. Shower. Dress. Apply make-up/toiletries etc. And then pack absolutely destination. I have a huge bag full of them in a drawer at home and switch out as necessary. And Voltaren for helping to relieve the inevitable back cramps caused by squishy economy travel.
Andrew Kirk, director Mister Kirky Press Office
How often do you travel?
Monthly. Here, and mostly Europe.
A bit of everything, but it’s usually work.
The lighter the better, in all things. Less is best, except for undies and socks. I think about the weather, and I also think in outfits. I always check my bags, even domestic. I don’t want to drag everything around with me if I can avoid it. I also leave space for shopping. I have a little extra bag that folds up small in case I need extra.
Put shirts and jackets on the same hanger. Or if you don’t have a suit bag, roll your pants and jackets to minimise creases and lay your shirts flat on top without folding. Same for knitwear. Shoe bags keep everything tidy.