Most travelers spend a lot of time thinking about what they’ll pack. They’re under pressure to make the most of every square inch of luggage space. Moreover, airline-imposed weight limits on luggage require passengers to factor in heft when planning what to bring on their trip.
Yet every once in a while, something special happens. For one reason or another, you end up with more space than you need! Perhaps it’s the length of the trip or the size of your one good piece of luggage. Whatever the reason, having extra luggage space is a luxury problem to have. But What to Do with Spare Luggage Space?
But it’s still a problem. After all, you don’t want your items bouncing around inside your suitcase. Nor do you want to be at your final destination with regret over the things you didn’t bring but could have if you’d thought to do so. Fortunately, we have a few ideas in mind.
Wondering What to Do with Spare Luggage Space?
Here are six things you can do with spare luggage space:
Downsize to carry-on
If you have extra room in your checked luggage, perhaps you don’t even need to bring it? While limiting yourself to carry-on only means limiting the number of liquids you can take, it saves time and money.
With this in mind, those struggling to fill their suitcase ought to rethink their choice of luggage. A backpack and duffle bag might be all you need to take everything necessary for a fun and memorable vacation.
If that’s the case, wouldn’t you rather do that instead of waiting to check and claim an unfilled piece of extra-large luggage?
Bring a musical instrument
Do you play a musical instrument? Do you also happen to have extra space in your suitcase? If so, consider taking it on your trip and playing a tune or two when the moment calls? Whether it’s a mini guitar, saxophone, or violin, bringing a musical instrument on your trip means having the chance to entertain friends, impress strangers, and provide a memorable experience for all parties involved.
While playing Reveille at the crack of dawn is a quick way to lose friends and make enemies, strumming a guitar on the beach or performing an after-dinner serenade on your violin is a simple way to add a musical touch to your travel experience.
Pack more footwear
If you find yourself with extra luggage space, consider throwing in extra pairs of shoes. From flip-flops to stilettos, more footwear options mean more versatility over the course of your trip.
That’s because, at the end of the day, you’re more limited by only having sandals and sneakers than you are with just a dress and pair of outfits. A pair of hiking boots means the ability to climb the local mountain for an amazing view, while some nice espadrilles could be the perfect pair of shoes for a night on the town you otherwise weren’t planning on having.
The final analysis is that, given the added range and potential granted by footwear, you’d be wise to bring as many options as possible.
Throw in more toiletries
Checked luggage means not worrying about liquid container limits. With this in mind, consider using extra space for packing more toiletries, such as creams, lotions, perfumes, salves, and toothpaste.
However, make sure to keep all liquids inside sealable plastic bags. This keeps your clothes and other items protected in the event of a burst or breakage in transit.
Save it for souvenirs
A common feature of inexperienced packing is failing to factor in the items you will buy and want to bring home. It’s hard to do that if you brought a jampacked suitcase. But those with spare room in their luggage have the ability to use that space to pack souvenirs.
Offer it to others
Are you traveling with someone else? Are they struggling to fit everything inside their luggage, while you have room to spare? If so, the solution is obvious! Offer your extra space to them. They can do the same if the roles are ever reversed, and you’re the one desperate for more packing space.
Spare space in your luggage is a terrible thing to waste. Rather than let it happen with no effort to make the most of it, consider one of the many sensible ways to utilize the extra room in your suitcase.
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