The Virginian-Pilot
                             THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT 
              Copyright (c) 1996, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: Saturday, January 27, 1996             TAG: 9601260086
SECTION: DAILY BREAK              PAGE: E3   EDITION: FINAL 
SOURCE: Kim Wadsworth 
                                             LENGTH: Short :   33 lines

PACKING FOR TRIP TAKES PLANNING, A LITTLE KNOW-HOW

YOUR TICKETS are in hand, destination known. But you haven't packed. Where do you start?

Do a little homework to make your load lighter. Check to be certain there is a hair dryer and iron at the place you will be staying. If you are going abroad, there may be certain clothing guidelines you need to know.

In addition, you may need an electric adapter. Tag all of your bags and use some identifying notion or sticker to make it stand out. Carry valuable jewelry and makeup with you in your carry-on. Take an umbrella.

Line your shoes around the perimeter of your suitcase and use socks and stockings rolled up to fill in the gaps. Bring travel-size detergent for hand-washables.

In the spirit of travel, Louis Vuitton has a very informative book on the art of packing a suitcase. Call any Vuitton dealership for a free copy.

To keep garments wrinkle-free, they suggest using tissue paper when folding. For pants, lay flat and place folded tissue to fit the pant length. Fold bottom half one-third, then fold top of pant down.

The book makes folding clothing look like a beginner's version of origami but it will save you time and keep clothes looking good, no matter where you travel. by CNB