The Zoomer Report: How to Pack

Summer vacation season is nearly here. And with more and more restrictions on baggage, here are some tips on the best way to pack a suitcase from realsimple.com. You’ll need a suitcase, resealable bags for shoes, and a plastic pillbox or film canister,

First, gather all the garments you may need on your trip, then edit down. Put back at least half of the items you think you need.

Pack double-duty garments, like yoga pants that moonlight as pajamas.

Tightly roll softer, wrinkle-resistant garments, like T-shirts and cotton pants, and place them along the base of the bag. Jeans should be rolled, too.

Next, fold stiffer and wrinkle-prone garments like starched cotton shirts and blazers. Layer these folded items over the rolled clothes.

Fold longer items in half, filling the length of the bag with them, alternating waists with hems at the ends.

Look for nooks and crannies to fill with smaller items, like bras and socks.

Stuff the cups of your bras with rolled-up socks to maintain their shape.

Snake belts around the perimeter of the bag. Then cover the whole pile with a dry-cleaning bag. Thanks to the bag’s slippery surface, folded clothes won’t stay in one place long enough for creases to set.

Finally, pick bulkier items to wear on the plane or in the car so they don’t take up precious luggage space.

Photo ©iStockphoto.com/ parema

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About The Zoomer Report

Libby ZnaimerLibby Znaimer, a prominent Canadian journalist specializing in business, politics, and lifestyle issues, is producer and host of The Zoomer Report, a special feature on topics of interest to baby boomers and the 50+. It covers everything from health and wealth to leisure and volunteerism, from the special vantage point of the generation that has changed society in its wake.

Ms. Znaimer is also Vice-President of News and Information for Classical 96.3FM and AM740. Her first book, “In Cancerland – Living Well Is The Best Revenge” – was published in October 2007 by Key Porter.

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