The ultimate guide to the perfect suitcase: tips and advice

The ultimate guide to the perfect suitcase: our tips and tricks

1. Plan around the destination and the weather

The first step to packing the perfect suitcase is to think ahead. Before you even lay a single item of clothing on your bed, find out about your destination and the weather during your stay. If you're going to the mountains in winter or to the seaside in summer, your clothing and accessory needs will vary considerably.

Warm destinations: opt for lightweight clothes made from cotton or linen, which allow the skin to breathe.
Cold destinations: invest in layered clothing, with thermal underwear, a warm jumper and a good waterproof jacket.
Varied destination (beach and mountain): consider adaptable outfits such as long-sleeved t-shirts, leggings or lightweight trousers that can be worn in a variety of conditions.
Tip: Use a weather app to anticipate temperature changes and always pack suitable clothing in case of unexpected rain or cold.

2. Make a list so you don't forget anything

Before you start putting everything together, make a list of essentials. This will ensure that you don't forget anything and that you can visualise the essentials.

Key categories not to overlook:

Clothing: underwear, pyjamas, swimwear, daywear and nightwear.
Shoes: a comfortable pair for walking, sandals or flip-flops for the beach, and perhaps dressier shoes if you have special outings planned.
Toiletries: mini bottles of shower gel, shampoo, toothpaste, and sun cream. Use travel containers to save space.
Accessories: sunglasses, hat, beach bag or rucksack.
Tip: By checking each item ticked, you'll avoid last-minute oversights. There are many apps that allow you to create interactive lists for stress-free travel.

3. Master the art of folding and packing

Knowing how to fold your clothes is essential for maximising the space in your suitcase. Here are a few tried and tested techniques for packing efficiently:

The rolling method: roll your clothes instead of folding them. This not only saves space, but also prevents them from creasing.
Storage cubes: these are very handy for organising your suitcase. Separate your clothes by category (top, bottom, underwear, accessories) in compressible pockets.
Store the heaviest items at the bottom: start with shoes and heavy items, then bulky clothes, and finally the lightest items at the top.
Tip: Slip your socks and small accessories into your shoes to save space. You can also use vacuum bags to compress bulky items.

5. Optimise space with smart accessories

Travelling light is often a matter of cleverness. Here are a few accessories that will help you maximise the space in your suitcase:

A hanging toiletry bag: ideal for organising your products in a compact way while avoiding having to empty your whole kit in the bathroom.
A multi-port charger: instead of carrying multiple chargers, opt for one charger with multiple USB ports for your devices.
Reusable bags: perfect for separating dirty laundry from clean or storing your shoes.
Tip : Think about a foldable beach bag that you can unfold once you're there. This avoids taking up too much space in your original suitcase.

6. Check baggage restrictions

Each airline has its own restrictions in terms of baggage weight and size. Check the authorised dimensions for your hand and hold baggage before you leave.

Air travel: weigh your baggage to avoid extra charges. Make sure your hand luggage meets the standards, especially for low-cost flights.
Travelling by train or car: you often have more flexibility, but be careful not to overload. If you're renting Clévacances accommodation, it's advisable to travel light to get the most out of the experience without being encumbered by superfluous luggage.

Packing the perfect suitcase requires a bit of organisation, but with these tips and tricks, you can travel serenely with the essentials and avoid the superfluous.
By following these steps, whether you're going on a getaway for a few days or an extended stay with Clévacances, you can be sure of making the most of your holiday with a well-thought-out and functional suitcase.