Moving your life across the country requires careful packing whether you’re doing it solo or hiring moving companies in Calgary.
Moving your life across the country requires careful packing whether you’re doing it solo or hiring moving companies in Calgary.
Pack your suitcase strategically using space-maximizing techniques to avoid leaving important items behind.
Follow these tips to fold and arrange clothes and personal belongings in a suitcase when relocating out of state. You’ll be able to take key essentials while avoiding excess luggage fees.
Choose the Right Suitcase for Moving
Look for sturdy luggage designed for long trips and frequent packing/unpacking. Optimal features include:
- Hard-sided for protection and retaining shape when stacked.
- Lightweight material like ABS or polycarbonate.
- Wheels and a pull handle for easy transport.
- Internal straps and divisions to secure contents.
- Expandable option to increase packing capacity if needed.
Proper luggage allows you to pack efficiently and transport belongings safely.
Know Airline Size and Weight Limits
When moving by air, be aware of size and weight restrictions to avoid fees:
- Dimensions – Max of 62 linear inches (157 cm) for combined length+width+height
- Weight – 50 lbs (23 kg) limit before overage fees apply
Weigh suitcases beforehand and adjust contents as needed. Wear bulky clothes and shoes to save space.
Optimize Packing Order and Grouping
Pack suitcase items using these methods:
- Place heavy items like shoes on bottom for stability.
- Group like items together – socks and underwear in one pouch, toiletries in a kit, etc.
- Lay flat/smooth items first – pants, blouses, dress shirts.
- Put odd-shaped objects in gaps between clothing – curling iron, hair dryer, etc.
- Fill remaining gaps with undergarments and accessories.
- Pack everyday essentials you’ll need immediately in a top layer or separate bag.
Fold Clothes Using Space-Saving Techniques
Refold clothes using these space-efficient techniques:
- Roll t-shirts, underwear, socks tightly.
- Bundle rolled socks and underwear into a zip pouch.
- Fold shirts into rectangular bundles, not around the shoulders.
- Roll and stand up pants and long dresses vertically.
- Place tissue paper between clothing layers to prevent wrinkles.
Efficient folding means packing more outfits into limited luggage space.
Make the Most of Interior and Exterior Pockets
Use pockets strategically for organization:
- Use exterior pockets for easy-access items – passport, pens, documents, glasses, medication, phone charger.
- Put small essentials in interior organizer pockets – makeup, toiletries, hair products, jewelry.
- Use mesh pockets for delicate items and underwear.
- Use zippered dividers for grouping clothes, shoes, or accessories.
Pockets keep key items secure while saving space in the main compartment.
Careful packing and folding means you can take all the essentials along on your interstate move. Follow these suitcase-packing optimization tips for stress-free travels across the country.
