Broken Suitcase Fix #2: Zippers

The only thing worse than trying to close your suitcase and discovering the zipper is stuck is trying to open your already-packed suitcase and discovering the zipper is stuck. Luckily, zipper repair is usually relatively low-tech, and can be fixed with items you’re likely to find in a hotel room. A stuck zipper can be helped along by rubbing a bar of soap or a bit of lip balm along the teeth. If the problem is that the zipper teeth aren’t knitting together to stay closed, feel along the zipper—you’ll likely find a single tooth that’s bent. Enlist the help of pliers to smooth the path and get your zipper moving again. If your zipper handle goes missing, loop a paperclip (crude but effective) or a souvenir keychain to create your own zipper pull. Want to travel prepared? Pack a small