The first thing that comes to mind when we talk about OFWs is the tightness of the immigration process and how it’s hard to ship things from overseas. However, there are other things that can cause inconvenience and the most common mistakes are made by OFWs when packing their luggage for their overseas trip. And this article is dedicated to helping OFWs avoid these mistakes with tips and tricks on how not to make a big mess when packing your luggage.
- Not Making a List
Make a list of everything you need to pack before you start packing your luggage. When you make a list, you can easily shift items from the “not yet packed” area to the “packed” area. A packing list not only ensures that you don’t forget anything but also avoids you from double-packing items that you may have already placed at the bottom of your luggage.
- Folding Clothes
Rolling your clothing instead of folding them is the standard rule of packing. Rolling your clothes makes it simpler to pack little items into the crannies of your suitcase and also helps to avoid unpleasant creases and wrinkles. Use rubber bands to hold your rolled clothes in place and then sort them into sizable storage bags to keep everything compacted and orderly.
- Over-packing
Over-packing is one of the most common mistakes OFWs make when preparing their luggage. There are several techniques to avoid over-packing, such as bringing fewer clothes or selecting clothing items like multi-wear pants.
- Over-packing on shoes
One of the simplest ways to over-pack your suitcase is to bring too many shoes. Even though you’ll want something fancier than just sneakers, you should wear as few pairs of shoes as you can. You should be able to get away with one or two pairs of shoes: a pair of casual shoes and a pair of semi-casual shoes that can also be worn when running errands.
- Pack Inappropriately
Electronics, cash, and other valuables shouldn’t be packed in your checked luggage. You’re out of luck if your luggage is damaged, misplaced, or delayed! Getting travel insurance is advised because you’ll be protected if this happens.
- Storing your valid ID card incorrectly
Passports shouldn’t be used to store valid ID cards. The card can accidentally fall out. The card must be kept in a secure pocket in your bag at all times, or you must purchase a passport holder that has a place for your valid cards. Additionally, avoid placing anything in your checked luggage at all costs.
- Disregarding the TSA’s guidelines for carry-on liquids
Nothing is more upsetting than getting to the TSA checkpoint at the airport and realizing you packed a whole bottle of your favorite shampoo that measures much over the limit for liquids. Make sure your liquids fit into a one-quart plastic bag, are less than 3.4 ounces (100mL), and are checked into your luggage before you leave for the airport.
- Liquid containers that have not been properly sealed
Air pressure and altitude both change quickly as an airplane takes off and landings. The air in your bottle of lotion or shampoo expands and contracts due to the pressure difference, which can create a big mess. Make sure your liquids are kept separate from your clothing by packing them in zip-top bags, plastic wrap, or other containers, whether they are in your carry-on or checked luggage.
- Not checking the size and weight restrictions
You can pack more into your luggage by using techniques like rolling your clothes, but you don’t have to use every inch of space, especially if your items are heavier.
You should double-check the airline’s website for bag size requirements and use a luggage scale before leaving for the airport to prevent additional taxes or other problems. Just bring what you need. You’ll spend less time and stress at the check-in bag drop station if you do this.
- The last-minute packing
Giving yourself enough time to finish the packing properly can help you avoid several common mistakes. OFWs either “over-pack” by bringing too many unnecessary items or “under-pack” by leaving out some necessary items. The only way to prevent either situation is to simply avoid packing last minute. You should always pack a day or a week in advance if possible because panicky last-minute packing frequently results in very poor packing.
