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Those who travel frequently know that one of the most important parts of planning a successful trip is packing well. This means being prepared for various situations, ease of access to the items packed, and most of all, packing light.

Inexperienced travelers may underestimate the amount of time they will spend carrying their luggage from place to place. There is, of course, the portion of the trip involving going to the airport, or train or bus station, checking in, and boarding followed by moving from the arrival point to the destination. However, there may be significant amounts of time spent carrying luggage between these points, or unforeseen difficulties with any leg of the journey. Carrying a large suitcase or two from the cab into the hotel may be reasonable, but if there is construction and one can’t be dropped off by the door, or if one is required to take a subway or bus unexpectedly each pound saved packing is precious.

There are other reasons to pack light. In today’s age of increased security on all forms of transportation, minimal luggage can save money and even more valuable time. For the traveler who frequents airports, traveling with only a carry-on bag is a measurable advantage. Most airlines now charge for checking baggage, rather than including a free checked bag or certain weight limit as in years past.