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Pack a Punch:
How to stay ahead of the pack...
Packing for travel, whether it's work or pleasure, is a fine art. If you're like me, no matter how carefully you plan ahead, check and double check, you always manage to leave something behind (usually, it's something important, like underwear or - heaven forbid - your straightening iron). And, with airline-imposed luggage limits and heightened security, having a packing plan is more important than ever.
Pack smarter, not harder, with these great resources for travel packing.
You've probably already been briefed by your mom on the most basic rules of packing: "travel light," "wear bulky items," and "put your nicest, most fragile things on top." But, if you're interested in becoming a bona fide packing pro, try visiting some of the websites listed below. Not only will they help you remember your toothbrush, they'll tell you where to put it, too!
If you're curious as to what items you can and can't bring with you on the plane (trust me - I've had my favourite Tweezerman tweezers confiscated at security, and I was NOT a happy camper!), visit the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority's website, and leave your worries (along with your ice axe, replica weapons and lacrosse stick) behind. ¤ Noa
- Travelite.org: An organization that teaches travelers how to pack lighter. Besides categorized packing suggestions, this site offers many useful links. And I found its luggage descriptions and reviews particularly helpful.
- Universal Packing List: This site mentions everything you could possibly bring on a trip, in an unconventional format. Fill out a short questionnaire about the nature of your travels, and the site generates a list of items you'll likely need to pack.
- One Bag: Hate hanging around in the airport waiting for your luggage to unload from the plane? Learn to fit everything you need into one carry-on bag. This site not only gives advice on what to take, but also outlines what luggage works best and how to pack with limited space.
- A Packing Site - Traveling Abroad: The University of Michigan has designed this resource for students travelling abroad during the summer. It offers a nice, targeted list of suggestions.
- TripSpot.com Packing Checklist: Print it out and get packing.