Packing for a short trip sounds like an easy task but most of us end up cramming far too many unnecessary items into our bag “just in case'' — and then usually end up forgetting something essential (a bathing suit, sunglasses, first-aid kit and so on).

So when you're going away, whether for a minibreak of three days or a two-week holiday, how do you get it right?

Write a packing list

Before you do anything, draw up a packing list. This can be done weeks in advance. The advantage of this is that as you get closer to your departure date, you can modify the list so that you're sure to include absolutely everything you need — but nothing more.

Remember that you may not be able to pick up some key items in a foreign country or you just may not have the time. And if you are camping or planning to be out of reach of modern conveniences, it's a good idea to double your packing list in case you are leaving something out.

Once you've filled your suitcase, slip a copy of your packing list in your hand luggage. If the unthinkable happens and your suitcase is lost, you'll have a record of what is missing.

This will come in handy when you are replacing the items or filing an insurance claim for lost property.

Choosing the right case

Be clever about the bag you choose to take on your break; the best-looking one isn't necessarily the most practical.

Make sure you can lift your bag if you need to carry it down some steps or store it in an overhead compartment on a train or an aircraft. Remember: If you're struggling to lift the suitcase when it's empty, you certainly won't be able to pick it up once it's full.

Choose a bag with wheels. Almost all kinds come on rollers nowadays. Before leaving the house, make sure your personal information is on your bag on a luggage tag as well as inside your bag somewhere. If your luggage looks similar to bags other travellers are carrying, you might want to tie a colourful ribbon on the handle so you'll have an easier time spotting it at the baggage claim.

Hand luggage

If you are travelling by air, make sure you know what size bag the airline will permit and how many pieces of handheld luggage a passenger is allowed to have.

Make sure you carry anything that is irreplaceable in your hand luggage so that you won't have to worry about being without it. Examples:

By Emma Procter and Pauline M. Forte

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