The new luggage regulations enacted after Sept. 11, 2001, make it more difficult to pack for air travel, especially if you want to carry your luggage on the plane rather than checking it. Packing for a trip can be stressful if you have limited room and have a fear of forgetting something important at home. Proper planning will help you pack a suitcase for air travel and ensure you bring everything you will need for your trip.

Items you will need

  • Packing list
  • Travel-size toiletries
Step 1

Write a list of what you need to pack so you won't forget anything. This makes packing less stressful, because you will not have to worry that you are leaving something out. Check off items on your list as you add them to your suitcase.

Step 2

Buy travel-size toiletry bottles to fill with your shampoo and lotion and travel-size bottles of toothpaste and contact solution, for example. This not only saves space in your suitcase, but also allows you to take your suitcase on the plane if it meets the carry-on size requirements. Remember: If you want to carry your suitcase on the plane you have to leave sharp objects, such as tweezers, at home.

Step 3

Avoid packing more than you really need. Only bring the necessities. Try to mix and match outfits so you can make more than one outfit out of the same clothing pieces. You can do this by packing clothes that fit the same color scheme. Bring a pair of shoes that are comfortable to walk in during the day and a pair of shoes that are appropriate for evening to "dress up" your outfits.

Step 4

Bring layering options in case the weather changes. If you are headed to a sunny destination, don't just bring shorts and T-shirts, because it could rain one day or be cool in the evening. Bring clothes that prepare you for a change in the weather.

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