Reserve luggage space for the return journey

A case that closes easily at home may be harder to repack after worn clothes, souvenirs and loose packaging have accumulated.

1. Before departure, pack once and identify a specific empty section you can leave unused. Include any reusable shopping bag in your bag count rather than treating it as invisible extra capacity.
2. During the trip, keep clean and worn clothing organised so you can see what space remains. Before buying something bulky, compare its packed size and weight with that remaining space.
3. Repack before the final evening rush. Remove unnecessary packaging only when it is not needed for protection or identification, and check your return carrier's allowance before creating an additional bag.

Leaving physical space does not increase a weight allowance. If the return load will not fit the actual conditions, change the packing plan early.