Video:How to Pack a Small Suitcase

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Transcript:How to Pack a Small Suitcase

Hello, I'm Milo for About.com and today we're talking about packing hand luggage well.

Know Airline Restrictions Before You Pack a Small Suitcase

Some airlines are stricter than others and it's always good to be prepared. For instance, even luggage that technically fits in the size and weight requirements, but does not fit in the hand luggage example stand, will be charged.

These practices change from airport to airport and carriers such as Ryanair have been known to do surprise inspections before boarding. The costs for checking luggage at the gate has gone up recently for some carriers to 40 euros or 40 pounds. Check online what the fees are for each airline.

The worst-case scenario is that you have to throw things away on the spot before being allowed to board. Maybe there are exceptions but I have never seen a temper tantrum or nervous breakdown at the gate phase an Ryanair employee. So be prepared.

Tips for Luggage Size When You Pack a Small Suitcase

To be safe, choose a carry on baggage that is exactly 55 centimeters by 40 centimeters by 20 centimeters or slightly smaller. When packing it, use a scale to make sure that it is not over 10 kilos or 22 pounds. Understand that your home scale will probably not exactly match those at the airport.

Understand that some of these airlines, like Ryanair, only allow the one carry-on piece, so you cannot take that and a purse.

You've probably heard of the regulations regarding liquids. In Europe the rules are generally the same as in the U.S., nothing over 100 milliliters and it all must fit in a transparent one liter bag.

Plan What You'll Wear When You Pack a Small Suitcase

Before you pack, plan what you'll wear. Basic, solid colors are easier to match with each other, making it seem as if you have more clothes. And a couple of accessories can make your wardrobe seem much larger.

Also, depending on your destination, leave room for buying a few things on your travels. When packing, take your clothes, folding them into a strip then tightly roll them into tubes. They take up less space and may wrinkle less as well.

When placing them in your carry-on, place the things you might need last first, such as shoes, stuffing clothes into them as well. With this in mind, make sure to place your bag of liquids at the top.

Enjoy your travels, and for more information, check us out at About.com.