Organization is key to maximising what you can take on this next step of your life.

Now is the time that many a student will be packing up their belongings for their first semester at college or university. They may be taking a short hop flight to another city in their own country or moving completely to another country, to pursue their education. It's not easy packing your life into a suitcase. It may seem a Herculean task, so let's look at some ideas to make the job easier.

Check if your chosen airline has any special offers just for students. Surprisingly, many airlines offer discounts on air fares, flexible date change on tickets and most important, extra baggage allowances. Some have student clubs that you can join for added benefits, such as free WiFi onboard. Definitely worth looking out for.

Get your documents in order for travel. This might include an identity card/passport, any required medical tests, and travel insurance. It is a good idea to take proof of any certifications that you have and also a copy of the university's acceptance letter.

You will need clothes for all seasons, so organization is a must. Choose practical clothing suited to studies as well as underwear and nightwear. Consider if you need to take clothing for the gym or a well-earned night out. Also pack something smart like a suit, in case you are required to go for an interview, meeting, or other formal occasion.

You can use packing cubes for some items as it can make your clothes super organized and easy to find. Any individual items can be rolled up and packed easily - this helps items to be crease free and allows for more space in the suitcase. Shoes can be packed in shoe bags to keep everything clean and tidy, and shoes can also be stuffed with smaller items, for complete capacity. If you have larger items, like a winter coat, it is worth investing in vacuum bags. The air is sucked out of the bag, allowing a lot more space.

Ask the university, what is needed at the accommodation and what can be bought cheaply in the surrounds. They may even have a packing list or a list of local suppliers. You may well need bed linen, towels, pillows, and kitchen items, but it might be easier to buy them there than use up your precious baggage allowance. Avoid taking books if possible, as they will add to the weight. See if the books are available online or on loan at the university. Stationery can be bought once there.

Of course, you will need your phone, tablet, and laptop for studies, so pack them well. Pack all the wires and adapters in a packing cube, so that you have everything in one place. Toiletries will be needed, but maybe don't take full-size items, just travel size and buy once there. There might be personal items that you want to take to remind you of friends and family. Things like photos and souvenirs can be comforting when a long way from home.

Check the weight of your luggage on your personal weighing scales. You can stand on it with your suitcase and then take your own weight off the kilos. Most airlines will allow a total baggage weight of between 20kg and 30kg. You don't want a surprise at the airport with extra baggage fees, which can be very expensive.

Writer - Patricia joins Simple Flying with over 20 years of experience in aviation. She has served as cabin crew on flights from economy-class to private jets. Patricia has a master's level postgraduate diploma in Human Factors in Aviation and has written about aviation since 2010. Based in Dubai