- Mr Plane Guy
- Apr 22, 2024
- 13 min read
Updated: May 28
Suitcase Packing Tips from a PRO!
After 15 years as a long haul flight attendant, I've learned a thing or two about packing efficiently, protecting your items, and managing your suitcase. Here's what I can share from my experiences.
Documenting Your Suitcase
An airport’s lost and found department can be an abyss and it's not uncommon for luggage to get lost. To help mitigate this risk, it's a good idea to document your suitcase and its contents. Take photos of your case, the label, and its contents. This will not only help you remember what you've packed, but it can also prove invaluable if your suitcase is damaged, lost, or stolen.
These pictures will come handy to fill out forms for claims or recovery.
For an added layer of security and peace of mind, consider putting an Airtag in your suitcase. This way, you can track it and increase the chances of recovery if it does get lost.
Packing Your Clothes
When it comes to packing clothes, the method you opt for can greatly affect how much you can fit into your suitcase and the state of your clothes upon arrival. One method that has worked wonders for me is rolling clothes instead of folding them. Not only does this create more space in the suitcase, allowing you to fit more items, but it also leads to fewer creases in your clothes. Remember, it's true what they say - take twice as much money and 50% fewer clothes!
1. Start with a packing list... and then ignore half of it
Seriously, unless you’re Beyoncé on tour, you probably don’t need 9 pairs of shoes for 3 days. Be brutal. Make a list, then cut it in half. You’ll thank me when your bag doesn’t scream “overweight” at the check-in desk.
2. Roll your clothes like a pro sushi chef
The age-old question: fold or roll? Answer: ROLL. Rolling not only saves space but stops your clothes from looking like they've been chewed up by a tumble dryer. Plus, it makes you feel like you’ve got your life together. Bonus.
Is it better to fold or roll clothes in a suitcase?Roll! Rolling is better for saving space and reducing wrinkles. Fold for stiff, structured items like blazers or dress shirts, but everything else? Roll it like you mean it.
3. Pack your suit jacket inside-out (no, really)
Worried about wrinkles in your blazer? Turn it inside out, fold it gently in half, and lay it flat on top of everything. It’ll arrive looking semi-human and not like it’s done five rounds in your washing machine.
4. The 5-4-3-2-1 rule: the lazy genius method
What is the 5-4-3-2-1 rule for packing?It’s a packing hack that goes:
5 tops
4 bottoms
3 accessories
2 pairs of shoes
1 swimsuit (yes, even if you’re going to Manchester. Be optimistic.)
Stick to this, and you’ll avoid the classic "I've packed 11 T-shirts but no pants" scenario.
5. Use packing cubes (a.k.a. wardrobe Tetris blocks)
You’ve probably seen these on Instagram – they look faffy, but they’re game-changers. Organise by outfit, day, or vibe (yes, I have a ‘beach club cube’ and I stand by it). Bonus: you won’t flash your pants to everyone at airport security.
6. Shoes at the bottom, soles in bags, judgement-free zone
Shoes go at the bottom of your case – they're the heaviest. Stuff socks or chargers in them to save space. Pop each one in a plastic bag so your pristine white shirt doesn’t end up smelling like the inside of a Crocs outlet.
7. Keep a ‘panic pouch’ in your hand luggage
This is your holy grail pouch. Toothbrush, travel docs, deodorant, and one emergency outfit just in case your checked bag goes on its own solo adventure to Zurich. Trust me, past-me learned this the hard way in Milan.
8. Invest in a suit bag if you’re feeling grown-up
Flying with a suit? Don’t squish it next to your gym trainers. If you’re heading to a wedding, a job interview, or just like pretending you're James Bond, get a proper suit bag. Your future self will look crisp and expensive.
9. Follow the 3-3-3 rule for minimalist packing
What is the 3-3-3 packing rule? This one’s for the ultra-light packers:
3 tops
3 bottoms
3 pairs of shoes
It’s not for the faint-hearted (or indecisive dressers), but if you're on a weekend trip and don’t fancy checking a bag, it’s a solid strategy.
10. Strategically layer – airport edition
How to strategically pack a suitcase? Think like a chess player. Heavy stuff near the wheels, delicate bits like shirts on top. Layer items to minimise wrinkles. Stuff socks in gaps. Place liquids in a zipped bag (unless you like shampoo-scented jeans). And wear your bulkiest clothes on the flight – it’s practically legalised smuggling.
Ready for Take Off: Be Ruthless, Not Clueless
Packing doesn’t have to be a nightmare. With a few clever tricks, your suitcase can go from chaotic carry-on to precision-packed masterpiece. Think of it like a game and you, my friend, are playing to win.
Now go forth and roll those socks with pride. And if all else fails? Remember: you can always buy a spare T-shirt when you land (preferably not one that says “I ❤️ Ibiza” unless that’s your vibe, no judgement).
Travel Tip: Don’t forget your chargers. Everyone remembers their fancy sunglasses and forgets the one thing keeping their phone alive. And no, airport chargers aren’t worth a tenner. Be smarter than past-me.
✈️ Liked these tips?
Follow me on Instagram & TikTok @mr_planeguy for more travel hacks, laughs, and the occasional suitcase disaster.
Managing Your Suitcase
Choosing the right suitcase can make a world of difference in your travel experience. I recommend getting a suitcase with 4 wheels that can rotate 360 degrees. This allows for more mobility and it's easier to navigate through crowded spaces like airports or train stations. Plus, it's much easier to push a suitcase than to pull it. Trust me, after dragging a suitcase around for 15 years, I can attest to the frozen shoulders and neck it can cause.
Keep in mind that how you handle your suitcase can have implications on your health. Always strive to protect your back. Lift with your knees and divide the weight evenly if you're carrying more than one bag.
All packed and ready to go!
Packing a suitcase is an art that, when done right, can make your travel experience much smoother and more enjoyable. It takes a bit of planning and some strategic decisions, but with these tips, you should be well on your way to becoming a packing pro.
What's your go-to suitcase packing tip? Share it in the comments, and let's learn from each other. Traveling is an adventure - let's make the journey as good as the destination.
Review of the 40L Anode Cabin Max Suitcase: The Perfect Fit for Ryanair Priority and Low-Cost Airline Travel
The Cabin Max Anode is my go to case for trips up to 7 days, it fits so much, it's very light (2.5kg!) due to it being made from ABS which is very durable, so it even fits Ryanair's strict measurement requirements!
With 4 x wheels it spins 360 so you can easily push it.
If you’re an avid low-cost airline traveller, you know that meeting strict luggage requirements like EasyJet or Ryanair can be a balancing act. The 40L Anode Cabin Max suitcase has proven to be a game-changer, especially when flying Ryanair, known for its stringent baggage rules.
Blog Post: Ryanair Cabin Bags, What You Need to Know
This sleek, durable, and remarkably functional suitcase is designed to fit most budget airline requirements while providing ample space for essentials, even for extended trips. After using this suitcase on numerous flights, including a chilly week-long trip to Iceland packed full of bulky clothes for Iceland, I’m thoroughly impressed by its practicality, durability, and smart design.
Size & Compliance: Ideal for Budget Airlines
The Anode Cabin Max has been perfectly crafted to fit within most low-cost airline baggage size limitations. With dimensions of 55x40x20 cm, it’s within the Ryanair priority bag allowance and also meets the cabin luggage requirements for most budget airlines. It is also the perfect fit if you have paid to take a bag onboard EasyJet or Wizz Air and Vueling.
A bag measuring 55 x 40 x 20 cm aligns with Ryanair's Priority cabin baggage allowance. Here's how this size fits with the cabin baggage policies of the other airlines you've mentioned:
Wizz Air: Standard fare includes one underseat bag up to 40 x 30 x 20 cm. To bring a larger cabin bag of 55 x 40 x 23 cm (maximum 10 kg), you need to purchase WIZZ Priority.
Jet2: Allows one cabin bag up to 56 x 45 x 25 cm, with a maximum weight of 10 kg, included in the ticket price. This Cabin Max Anode 40L 55 x 40 x 20 cm bag fits within these limits.
easyJet: Standard fare includes one small underseat bag up to 45 x 36 x 20 cm. To bring a larger cabin bag up to 56 x 45 x 25 cm, you need to select the option to bring a bag onboard, I find this very reasonable with easyJet, the size requirements for this are
One large cabin bag up to 56 x 45 x 25 cm (including handles & wheels)
Max weight: 15 kg the Cabin Max Anode is the perfect size!
Blog Post: EasyJet Cabin Bag Guide: Everything You Need to Know
British Airways: Allows one cabin bag up to 56 x 45 x 25 cm and one personal item up to 40 x 30 x 15 cm, both with a combined weight limit of 23 kg. The Cabin Max anode bag fits within the cabin bag allowance.
Vueling: Standard fare includes one underseat bag up to 40 x 30 x 20 cm. To bring a larger cabin bag up to 55 x 40 x 20 cm (maximum 10 kg), you need to purchase the Optima or Family Fare, or add the Space One or Space Plus service.
TUI: Free Cabin Bag, Size: Maximum dimensions of 55 x 40 x 20 cm and a Weight: Up to 10kg. Once again the Cabin Max Anode is the perfect size!
Blog Post: TUI Luggage Allowance Guide: Everything You Need to Know
Please note that airline baggage policies can change, so it's advisable to check the specific airline's website or contact them directly before your flight to ensure compliance with their current regulations.
Tips for travelling on low cost airlines with strict hand luggage rules
Use Compression Cubes: Maximize your packing space while keeping your belongings organized.
Wear Bulky Items: Save space in your luggage by wearing heavier items like jackets or boots.
Packing cubes to keep everything organised. If you have items spilling out of your luggage you are more likely to be asked to place your luggage in the sizer for checking by the gate staff!
Check out these packing cubes on Amazon.
What customers are saying about the 40L Anode Cabin Max Suitcase
Customers find the suitcase roomy and well-made, surviving airline holds without damage, and appreciate its bright colour range and multiple options. The case is lightweight, easy to maneuver through airports, and works well for budget airlines, with one customer noting it's ideal for free small cabin bags on Wizzair. While it fits perfectly in overhead compartments, some customers report it being too small for their needs.
This is perfect if you have purchased to bring a bag onboard, or Ryanair Priority Boarding or even EasyJet Speedy boarding.
I find this option for paying for a paid carry on bag on with low cost airlines is a great feature for me for trips up to a week away. Usually a-lot cheaper than buying hold luggage fee's. (Prices vary depending on which route and low cost airline flight.) Plus I can keep the bag with me and I don't have to stress at the luggage carousel! I take my 40L Cabin Max Anode and can fit plenty of items for a week away.
I've been using the Cabin Max Anode for over a year and it's the perfect fit for Speedy boarding or Priority Boarding where you get extra luggage allowance or as a paid carry on luggage item.
It is so light weight, it has 360 spinning wheels so I can push or pull it around the airport and place my small undereat bag on top of it. It has a well made lock to keep all my items secure. For the price as well it is excellent quality!
For those who need more space, the Cabin Max Anode 40L is a fantastic option.
Spacious and Lightweight: Perfect for trips up to 7 days, with enough room for clothing, toiletries, and extras.
Durable and Stylish: Available in various colours, so you can travel in style.
It's also a perfect fit for Ryanair, Voltea Priority or EasyJet Speedy Boarding: No worries about your bag arriving separately, as you can keep it with you.
The lightweight construction at only 2.5 kg also maximises what you can pack without compromising weight limits. For frequent travellers like myself, this means peace of mind, knowing that there won’t be any last-minute surprises at the gate.
Top Tip: if checking my bag into the hold I put an AirTag in my suitcase, check your bag has arrived at the destination, honestly it's a game changer!
Blog Post: Why You NEED an Apple AirTag in Your Luggage for Travel (And the New Feature That Makes It Even Better)
Lightweight Yet Durable Construction
One of the standout features of the Anode Cabin Max is its construction. Made from ABS material, it’s built to withstand the bumps, scrapes, and rough handling typical of travel. This material is durable and hard-wearing, and it certainly lived up to its reputation during my recent trip to Iceland, where I filled it with bulky sweaters, long johns, and winter gear. Despite the extra load, the suitcase handled everything beautifully and showed no signs of wear after a week of intense use.
Don't forget these handy Hand Luggage Regulation approved waterproof liquids wash bags.
Spacious and Organised Interior
For a compact 40L suitcase, the Anode Cabin Max offers impressive storage solutions. The interior is split into two sections, each designed to make packing more organised and accessible. One side includes packing straps that keep items in place, which is especially helpful for bulky items like sweaters and jackets. The other section features a zipped divider with two elasticated pockets and a dedicated "wet" pocket, ideal for toiletries or any items that may be damp.
I found the separate wet pocket to be a lifesaver on my trip. It kept my liquids and toiletries safely contained, and because the pocket is easy to clean, I didn’t have to worry about potential spills or leaks. Additionally, there’s a small accessories pocket with a key clip, perfect for keeping essentials like keys, cables, or travel documents within easy reach.
Smooth Mobility with 360-Degree Spinner Wheels
Navigating busy airports, crowded terminals, and uneven terrain can be challenging, but the Anode Cabin Max's 360-degree spinner wheels make it effortless. The suitcase glides smoothly in any direction, and even when it’s packed to full capacity, it feels stable and easy to control. Having a handle height of 102 cm also ensures comfort while manoeuvring, especially for taller travellers who often find standard suitcase handles too short.
Added Security with a High-Quality Combination Lock
Security is another key feature of the Anode Cabin Max. It comes with an integrated high-quality combination lock, providing peace of mind that your belongings are secure throughout your journey. For those moments when you need to step away from your bag, this lock ensures an extra layer of protection against tampering or unauthorised access.
Versatile Use: Perfect for Short Trips and Extended Stays
The Anode Cabin Max has quickly become my go-to suitcase for any trip up to a week, even in colder climates where thicker clothing is essential. Its versatile storage options and ample capacity mean that I can pack everything I need without the hassle of checked luggage. It’s especially suited for low-cost airline travel, where maximising carry-on space is crucial. Whether it's a city break, beach holiday, or a winter adventure, this suitcase has the versatility to handle it all.
An Exceptional Travel Case for Budget Travellers
Overall, the 40L Anode Cabin Max suitcase ticks all the boxes for the savvy traveller. From its durable ABS construction and spacious, organized interior to its airline-compliant size and smooth spinner wheels, it’s been a reliable companion for my adventures. I would recommend it to anyone looking for a high-quality, affordable suitcase designed specifically to meet the demands of low-cost airline travel.
Whether you’re heading on a quick weekend getaway or a week-long adventure in a colder climate, the Anode Cabin Max is up to the task, stylish, sturdy, and perfect for making the most of carry-on allowances.
Perfect Size for Low-Cost Airlines
Dimensions of 55x40x20 cm fit within Ryanair priority baggage allowance and other budget airline cabin luggage restrictions.
Lightweight at just 2.5 kg, allowing for maximum packing capacity without exceeding weight limits.
Made from high-quality ABS material, providing excellent durability and resistance to wear and tear.
Spacious, Organised 40L Interior
Interior split into two sections with a packing strap on one side for securing bulkier items like sweaters and coats.
Zipped divider with two elasticated pockets and a wet pocket for storing toiletries, damp clothing, or items that need to be contained.
Additional accessories pocket with a key clip ideal for securing small valuables, keys, or documents.
360-Degree Spinner Wheels for Effortless Mobility
Integrated Combination Lock for Added Security
Compact but spacious 40L size accommodates travel needs for trips up to a week.
Check out all of the stylish colour options and for the latest price to find the best deal on this reliable, travel-ready suitcase.
It comes in so many colours!! Take a look here
Airport Lounge Access: Start Your Holiday in Style
Complimentary drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic)
Tasty snacks to keep you going
Wi-Fi to catch up on emails or browse before your flight
Comfortable seating to unwind before takeoff
If you love starting your holiday with a touch of luxury, this alone might make the upgrade worthwhile.
Want airport lounge access but at a reduced fee? I got you!
Priority Pass is the world's largest independent airport VIP lounge access program, with over 1,400+ lounges in over 600 cities across 148 countries! From just £69 for an annual pass.
The lovely people from priority Pass have offered me a 30% discount code making it just £48! Be quick this won't last long!! Use my link below.
Take a Look Here ( I get a tiny kickback BTW, thank you for the support )
TOP TIP: If two of you are travelling, just get one Priority Pass and the two of you will get into lounges at reduced fee's all year!
Plan Your Airport Parking: Booking in advance can make your journey more seamless.
Travel Tip: Get one of these phone holder clips and watch something on your phone hands free, it clips on to economy seats perfectly! They are so cheap and will really transform your economy flight experience!
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Essential Tips for Budget Travel with Ryanair
Travel and flight expert Paul has spent over 15 years giving first class service with a London based airline. This travel and flight expert has been crossing the Atlantic sometimes 10 times a month!
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