Packing for a flight is always a bit of a headache, especially when you worry about weight limits and extra fees. The good news is that with some simple rules you can avoid most problems and travel much lighter.

First check your baggage allowance before you even start packing. Most tickets tell you clearly how many bags you can take and what the weight limit is. Hand luggage is usually 7 to 10 kilos and checked bags 23 kilos each, but this changes depending on the airline and the type of ticket you bought. Economy tickets often have stricter limits than more expensive ones.

A smart way to stay safe is to pack light from the beginning. Many experienced travelers try to fit everything into carry-on only. It saves time at the airport and you dont risk losing your checked bag. If you manage to do that you avoid waiting at the carousel and worrying about delayed luggage.

When packing try the rolling method. Roll your clothes instead of folding them, it saves a lot of space and keeps things less wrinkled. Put heavier items at the bottom and lighter ones on top. Use small packing cubes or zip bags to organize everything, they make it easier to find things and help you stay under the weight limit.

For liquids in hand luggage remember the 100ml rule. All bottles must fit into one clear plastic bag no bigger than a liter. Toothpaste, shampoo, creams, everything counts. If you need more just put it in the checked bag.

Shoes take up a lot of space and weight so bring only two or three pairs maximum. Wear the bulkiest ones on the plane. Same with jackets, put on your heaviest coat instead of packing it.

Weigh your bag at home before you leave. Bathroom scales work fine. If its even a little over, take something out. Airlines are getting stricter and extra kilos can cost a lot. Sometimes its cheaper to pay for an extra bag than to pay for overweight.

If you must check a bag, put a copy of your itinerary and contact info inside it. Also take a photo of your packed bag before closing it, just in case. Never put important documents, medicine or valuables in checked luggage. Keep them with you in the cabin.

A useful trick for avoiding fees is to wear as much as possible on the plane. Layers work great. You can take off extra clothes once you are onboard. Also check if your ticket includes checked bags. Some cheap tickets dont, so you might pay more at the airport than if you added it online earlier.

For long trips consider doing laundry instead of packing clothes for every day. Most places have cheap washing services or you can wash small things in the hotel sink.

Packing light takes practice but after a few trips it becomes natural. You learn what you really need and what is just extra weight. The less you carry the more comfortable your journey will be, both at the airport and during the flight.

Next time you pack remember, less is usually better. Check the rules, weigh everything and roll instead of fold. You will save money, time and a lot of stress. Happy travels and safe packing!