The ability to go on a trip with just a handbag in tow is much more complicated than it may seem, and being able to pack said bag efficiently is a talent in and of itself. With airlines getting more and more strict with baggage allowance, being able to pack a handbag for travel is a skill that’s more important now than ever before. If you’re set to go on a trip and have to make do with just a personal item sized bag, worry not – we’re here to help! Here’s everything you need to know about how to pack a handbag for travel.
Pick an Appropriate Handbag
From tote bags and shopper bags to crossbody bags and shoulder bags, there are plenty of handbags to pick from, but when it comes to travelling with just one you need to seriously consider which type of handbag is best suited to your trip. Tote bags and shopper bags are both great options if you’re planning on bringing a lot of things on your trip. Crossbody bags and shoulder bags come in a variety of sizes and have long straps, which makes them a great choice if you’re going to be doing a lot of walking during your excursion.
In addition to picking the right style bag, you also have to make sure the dimensions of your handbag fit the dimensions the airline allows. Typically, personal items are permitted to be up to 22 pounds and a maximum of 18x14x8 inches, though this varies depending on who you’re flying with. It’s always a good idea to check the airline’s guidelines well before pick your handbag and start packing!
Pack the Right Things
You’ll have to make the most of every square inch when you travel with a handbag, and that means leaving some of your favourite fashion pieces behind. Ideally, you’ll want to limit your wardrobe to 10 items or less, which adds up to roughly three outfits. Your fourth outfit will be the one you wear during your flight.
Besides your outfits, you’ll also want to bring along toiletries, travel documents, technology, and other everyday essentials. Here’s what your packing list should include when you’re limited to travelling with a handbag:
Wardrobe:
· three to five pairs of underwear/socks
· three tops
· two bottoms (skirts, shorts or pants)
· two pairs of shoes
· one dress, jumpsuit or romper
· one sweater
· one jacket
· one swimsuit
Toiletries:
· Small bottles of shampoo, conditioner, body wash or sunscreen
· A small tube of toothpaste
· Toothbrush
· Comb
· Deodorant
· Razor
· Medications
Travel Documents:
· Passport
· Other forms of ID
· Wallet
· Cash in the appropriate currency
Technology:
· Phone
· Headphones
· Chargers and accessories
· Universal power adaptor
Other Items:
· Sunglasses
· Eye mask
· Reusable water bottle
· Pens
· Keys
· Ziploc bags
· Mesh laundry bag
How to Pack Your Handbag
Now that you have your handbag and items all ready to go, you may be wondering how on earth you’re going to be able to fit all your stuff in such a confined space. Here are some savvy travel hacks that’ll help you do just that:
1. Roll your clothing: The best way to condense your clothes and reduce the amount of space they take up is to roll them before packing them.
2. Get compressible bags: In addition to rolling your clothes, you may also want to invest in compressible plastic bags that will squeeze out extra air and provide you with more room.
3. Make use of your sunglasses case: Your sunglasses case is already going to take up space in your handbag, so you might as well make use of it and store your chargers and accessories in there.
4. Wear bulkier items while travelling: Bulkier items like sweaters and jackets may not fit in your handbag, and the best way to bring them along is just to wear them during your flight.
5. Store things in your shoes: Your shoes are going to take up their fair share of space in your handbag, and it’s best to utilize that space by stuffing them with your socks and/or underwear.
That’s it! With these tips and tricks on how to pack a handbag for travel, you’ll be all set to go on your next big trip without all the extra weight. And if your handbag gets subject to some wear and tear during your journey, Love Your Purse has got you covered.
Love Your Purse is the largest and busiest purse cleaning and purse repair facility in all of Canada. Having been in operation since 1987, our specialists are well equipped to repair handbags in all kinds of conditions. Contact us today to get a quote on our purse repair services and keep your handbag in your life for the long haul!
