Catriona Rowntree lasted almost three decades to travel the world and its parts adventures on Outing.
As such, it’s no surprise that she has delved into an art, revealing to 9Travel that there are a “few policies” she now adheres to when she travels.
“I get questions about it packing tips all the time,” the TV host shares.
Here are some of the top things she recommends.
You don’t need expensive luggage
Some people may think that having an expensive suitcase is the best choice, but according to Catriona, it can get you into trouble.
“No one is impressed by expensive luggage. It will be the first to be stolen,” she emphasizes.
“If you have really cheap, dirty luggage, the first thing you’ll be checked by security is, so you want something that’s in the middle of the road.”
She also says to “avoid” common colors including black and navy blue, revealing that her personal preference is for a hard case.
“So much of my stuff has broken over the years,” Catriona says.
Packing trick to keep someone from snooping
If you’re worried about someone (non-security) searching your bag, Catriona has another sneaky trick she uses if the suitcase won’t lock.
“Sometimes you’re not allowed to lock your bag, so I have dirty underwear, socks, etc. at the top of my luggage,” she says.
“Because I always think that if someone wants to loot my luggage or steal my luggage, they’re probably going to open it and say, ‘Oh, look at those socks,’ but you really have to pay attention to those things.”
Continue etiquette to remember
Even when traveling with carry-on luggage only, Catriona says she has one rule
“There is also a certain etiquette when it comes to overhead luggage. You have to be able to set this up yourself,” she says.
And don’t put anything in the overhead bins that will make you angry if you squash them, she adds.