How to Pack a Military Duffle Bag
By Kate Evelyn
If you're a professional golfer or you just take a lot of golf vacations, you may want to start packing your belongings in a military duffle bag. These thin and lightweight bags, which usually have drawstring tops, make it easy to carry your belongings on your back. However, it's important to pack them properly so that they don't fall over when you set them down and so that the weight is distributed fairly evenly.
Instructions
Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Lay out everything you plan to pack in your military duffle so that you can take stock of all the items you have. Pick out anything that is smaller than a sock, such as golf tees, balls and nail clippers. Put these items into either small zippered pouches or resealable plastic bags. Otherwise they are likely to get lost among the larger items.
Pack any liquid toiletries, such as shampoo and mouthwash, into resealable bags as well. That will keep them from leaking. Do this even if the bottles are sealed. They could break open if you drop your bag.
Sit your duffel on the floor or bed so that it rests on its base. Pick the sturdiest and heaviest items out of your pile and put them in the bag first. This most likely will be your golf cleats and other shoes. Fit as much as possible into this bottom layer. You don't want items shifting around.
Smooth all of your large clothing items out flat. This includes shirts, pants, jackets, long underwear and other large pieces of outerwear. Roll up each piece separately as if it were a sleeping bag. Tightness counts here. Once you're done, place each item in the duffle lengthwise.
Take your small apparel items, such as ties, socks and underwear, and roll them up in the same fashion. Look for any gaps between the larger clothing items. Use these smaller items to plug any holes. Place any leftover clothing on top.
Put your toiletry items and any other miscellaneous gear on the top too, intermingled with the socks and underwear. Don't forget any other items that you put in resealable bags. Tighten the drawstring or zipper on your duffle and see if you can carry it easily. If it's too loose, add in a few more pieces of clothing, even if they're not essential.
Tips & Warnings
Don't try to put your golf clubs in the duffle. It lacks the protection a standard golf bag provides.
About The Author
Based in Washington, D.C., Kate Evelyn has been writing professionally since 2000. Her articles have appeared in numerous publications, including "Elle" magazine, "Brass|CU" magazine and the "Credit Union Times." She holds a Bachelor of Arts in journalism from Western Maryland College.
