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How to pack a suitcase (and not hate it): 12 expert tips.

Take the stress out of vacation prep with these simple hacks.

How to Pack a Suitcase

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Rolling your clothes, making packing lists and bringing a laundry bag are a few of the ways you can pack your suitcase like a pro.

While nearly everyone gets excited to go on vacation, almost no one looks forward to packing beforehand. This dreaded task is only made worse by the threat of wrinkled clothes, forgotten items and broken gear when you arrive at your destination. Read on to learn how to pack a suitcase like a pro.  

Choose the right bag

Choosing the right bag for your trip, needs and style is key to achieving packing success. Narrow down your choice with these multi-purpose options, from soft-sided and hard-sided carry-on bags to travel backpacks and duffels:

• The Best Carry-on Luggage
• The Best Checked Luggage
• The Best Luggage Sets
• The Best Weekender Bags for Women
• The Best Duffel Bags in Every Style
• The Best Travel Backpacks

Invest in packing cubes

Frequent travelers swear by these highly rated packing cubes – lightweight, zip-up compartments allow you to separate different types of clothing, accessories, and even toiletries within your suitcase. They can also help to keep clothing wrinkle-free.

Pack everything from underwear to charging devices in individual packing cubes to keep everything organized and easily accessible. You might even purchase a few packing cube sets in different colors to organize your belongings by color (clothing items in red packing cubes, accessories in blue, etc.) or by a family member. Once you arrive at your lodging, just take the packing cubes out of your bag and place them in the dresser drawer.

Make a few packing lists

Before you start packing, jot down one list of must-haves and a second list of other items that you'd like to bring, but that aren't totally necessary. This will help you to avoid overpacking. Also write a list of last-minute items you'll need to throw in your bag just before you leave.

Read: What to Pack in a Carry-on Bag

Assemble a capsule wardrobe

Emirates cabin crew member Lauren Guilfoyle recommends assembling a capsule collection of basics like black pants, white jeans, neutral T-shirts and a denim jacket. These items are easy to mix and match and can be worn multiple times, so you won't need to pack a brand-new outfit for each day.

Roll your clothes

"Rolling your clothes helps to fit more and, if done right, helps to reduce wrinkles in the clothes you've packed," says Bobby Laurie, a former flight attendant and current host of "The Jet Set" talk show. To do this efficiently, use the Army or Ranger Roll method, which involves folding up the bottom few inches and sleeves of a garment as shown here .

Wrap breakables in clothing

Traveling with wine bottles or other fragile items? Roll any breakables inside a few layers of clothing to prevent damage.

Wear bulky items on the plane

"Wear your bulkiest items on the plane to free up space in your luggage and keep you warm during travel," Guilfoyle recommends. For example, if you're going to the beach, pack your flip-flops in your bag and wear your sneakers on the plane.

Pack a laundry bag

Scott Keyes, chief flight expert and founder of travel website Scott's Cheap Flights , advises bringing a separate, packable bag – even just a small plastic bag or trash bag – for dirty laundry. "[A trash bag] is simple, compresses super small and saves you from having to mix your clean and dirty clothes," Keyes says.

Fill in empty spaces

Be sure to use up any excess space. For instance, you can place socks and other small items inside of your shoes or a clutch purse.

Pack a wrinkle-release fabric spray

Not a fan of ironing or packing for a cruise and worried about wrinkle-prone clothing? Carry a bottle of wrinkle-release spray with you. Simply spray the liquid liberally on clothes while gently stretching and smoothing the garments to eliminate creases caused by packing. You might also consider packing wrinkle-resistant fabrics like 100% cotton, nylon and spandex.

Read:  The Best Garment Bags for Travel

Buy a portable luggage scale

Rather than trying to balance your luggage on your bathroom scale, hook this portable (and affordable) luggage scale onto any bag to check its weight. When you're finished, pack the scale in your baggage so you can check the suitcase's weight for your return flight as well.

Keep toiletries ready to go

To avoid the hassle of packing your toiletry bag every time you go on vacation, keep one in your closet filled with travel-sized items. If you run out of an item on a trip, be sure to refill it as soon as you get home so it's ready for your next getaway.

Read:  The Best Toiletry Bags

You might also be interested in:

• What Is Allowed in a Carry-on Bag?
• The Best Luggage Trackers
• Guide: Carry-on Luggage Sizes by Airline
• The Best Travel Neck Pillows
• The Best Passport Wallets

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How to Pack a Suitcase: The Ultimate Guide

Sarah Schlichter

Deputy Executive Editor Sarah Schlichter's idea of a perfect trip includes spotting exotic animals, hiking through pristine landscapes, exploring new neighborhoods on foot, and soaking up as much art as she can. She often attempts to recreate recipes from her international travels after she gets home (which has twice resulted in accidental kitchen fires—no humans or animals were harmed).

Sarah joined the SmarterTravel team in 2017 after more than a decade at the helm of IndependentTraveler.com. Sarah's practical travel advice has been featured in dozens of news outlets including the New York Times, the Chicago Tribune, USA Today, Budget Travel, and Peter Greenberg Worldwide Radio. Follow her on Twitter @TravelEditor .

The Handy Item I Always Pack: "A journal. Even years later, reading my notes from a trip can bring back incredibly vivid memories."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience: "Road tripping and hiking through the rugged mountains of Patagonia."

Travel Motto: "'To awaken quite alone in a strange town is one of the pleasantest sensations in the world.'—Freya Stark"

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat: "Aisle. I get restless on long flights and like to be able to move around without disturbing anyone else."

Email Sarah at [email protected] .

Travel Smarter! Sign up for our free newsletter.

Packing a suitcase may seem like a straightforward task—but do it wrong, and you could end up losing valuables, paying overweight baggage fees, or cleaning up messy spills. That’s why it’s vital to learn how to pack a suitcase the smart way.

The tips below offer guidance on every step of packing a suitcase, from choosing a bag to the eternal debate between rolling and folding your clothes. (Spoiler: You might want to do both.) I’ve also included specific advice for packing a carry-on vs. a checked bag.

Start with the Right Suitcase

The “right” suitcase is different for everyone. If you need a large bag to check, you might prefer a hardside suitcase that’s durable enough to stand up to some rough handling. A softside carry-on might be preferable if you don’t usually check bags and like having a couple of external pockets to stow things like an eyeglass case or your quart-size bag of toiletries. No matter which kind you opt for, test each bag before you buy to be sure it rolls smoothly around corners and that the handle length suits your height.

Keep in mind airline size and weight limits when choosing a suitcase. Remember: Airlines include the wheels, not just the actual packing space, when measuring carry-on height—and many bags that are marketed as carry-ons are technically too tall to fit into some airlines’ bag sizers. For checked luggage, every pound counts; you might want to seek out ultralight luggage that won’t eat into your weight allowance.

For more help, see Choosing the Right Travel Luggage .

How to Pack a Suitcase

Start by making a packing list a few days before your trip so you have time to pick up any last-minute items.

Once you’ve laid out everything you need, start with the heaviest items first. You’ll want to put them toward the bottom of the suitcase when it’s standing (i.e., the side with the wheels) so it won’t be too top-heavy. Distribute heavier items evenly between both sides of the suitcase so it won’t be pulled off-balance when it’s standing.

When packing shoes, don’t let any space go to waste: Fill them with socks, undergarments, or other small items. If they’re dirty, pack the shoes in a plastic bag or put a shower cap over the soles to protect the rest of your bag.

Some travelers swear by rolling clothes; others prefer to fold. But the best way to pack a suitcase is often a mix of the two. Wrinkle-prone items tend to come out in better shape if you fold them, but tightly rolled clothes are easier to work into the little nooks and crannies around your bag. My own strategy is to put my shoes in the bottom half of my suitcase, fill the top half with rolled clothing, and then fold bulky items like sweatshirts or rain jackets and lay them on top of everything else.

Packing cubes or sleeves can help keep things organized, especially in a larger bag. If you’re sharing a suitcase with a partner, you can each use packing cubes in a different color to help you immediately spot whose gear is whose.

If your suitcase has exterior pockets, use them for items to which you need ready access, such as sleepwear for the first night of your trip.

Never over-stuff your suitcase. If the zippers are straining before you even leave home, one of them might break along the way. Open the bag again and see what you can live without.

Tips for Packing a Carry-on Suitcase

For airport security reasons, you may not bring full-size bottles of shampoo, sunblock, or other liquid or gel substances in your carry-on. These substances must be in 3.4-ounce (100-milliliter) bottles or smaller, all stored within a single clear, quart-size plastic bag. Since you may have to pull this bag out at airport security, you should keep it in an easily accessible place—such as an exterior pocket on a softside suitcase or near the top of your hardside carry-on. For more information, see Airport Security Q&A .

Keep in mind that your carry-on may be within an airline’s size limits when empty, but could quickly become oversized if you stuff every compartment full and use any expanding features. Note that some international airlines have weight restrictions for carry-ons as well.

Even if your carry-on is within legal limits, you might still be forced to gate-check it on smaller planes or sold-out flights—so pack accordingly. That means making sure the bag has a luggage tag in case it’s lost, and that any important or breakable items are easily accessible in case you need to transfer them to your personal item in a hurry.

Tips for Packing a Checked Suitcase

Packing too much can cost you dearly in overweight baggage fees, so weighing your bag with a luggage scale before you leave home is always a good idea. If you’re right up against the weight limit, though, keep in mind that the scale at the airport may be calibrated a little differently; give yourself some margin for error.

Never trust an airline with anything important, lest it be damaged, lost, or stolen. That means items such as prescriptions, car keys, cameras, and jewelry should always be placed in your carry-on bag or personal item, not your checked bag.

If you have to transport anything breakable in your checked bag, cushion it with clothing or bubble wrap . Bringing home wine? Use a sleeve designed just for that purpose.

Protect your bag from spills by putting toiletries into a zip-top plastic bag or by putting plastic wrap under the caps of the bottles, as demonstrated in 3 Genius Packing Hacks for Plastic Wrap .

Label your bag with your name, email address, and phone number so the airline can contact you if it loses your suitcase. The address of the hotel where you’ll be staying is also worth including, but you might want to leave off your home address for security reasons.

Do you have a black suitcase that looks like everyone else’s black suitcase on the baggage carousel? Tie a colorful ribbon around the handle or mark it with some brightly colored duct tape so there’s no chance anyone else will mistake your bag for theirs.

Finally, you might want to lock your luggage to discourage theft. Just make sure the lock you choose is TSA-approved so security agents don’t need to cut it off to access your suitcase.

For more advice, see 10 Things Not to Do When Checking a Bag .

More from SmarterTravel:

• The 6 Best Packing Cubes Ever
• How to Pack a Backpack: 5 Essential Tips
• The Carry-on Challenge: How to Pack Light Every Time

Follow Sarah Schlichter on Twitter @TravelEditor for more travel tips and inspiration.

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6 Packing Tips

How to pick a suitcase, packing lists by trip, packing for a family trip, any questions.

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Originally published on June 26, 2017

How to Pack a Suitcase

By Shivani Vora and Michelle Higgins

Illustrations by Julia Rothman

Packing may seem simple, but it is a science with rules that travelers often learn the hard way over thousands of miles on the road. Doing it strategically can be the difference between a harried vacation with countless detours to local drugstores and a streamlined one with everything you need at your fingertips. Here’s our shortcut to packing the right way: how to find the best suitcase, minimize your load, pack what you need on a beach trip or a business trip and cut down on wrinkles.

Follow these basic tips to pack efficiently and effectively for any trip.

1. The bigger your suitcase, the more you will put into it: The simplest way to avoid bringing too many things is to buy a hard-sided suitcase, no more than 22 inches tall (so it can work as a carry-on) with a structured shell so you can’t squeeze in any extras.

2. Do the clothing countdown: If you need a mantra to help streamline your wardrobe, use the 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 rule for a weeklong trip: Limit yourself to no more than five sets of socks and underwear, four tops, three bottoms, two pairs of shoes and one hat. The list should be adjusted to suit your needs. Throw in a swimsuit and exercise gear or a suit jacket and dress if you’ll need them.

3. Lay out what you think you’ll need, then edit ruthlessly: “Think twice about everything you want to put in your bag,” said Ben Nickel-D’Andrea, who writes about flying first-class with his husband, Jon Nickel-D’Andrea, at No Mas Coach! , part of the BoardingArea blogger network. The jet-setting couple once flew to Morocco for nine days with only carry-on bags and backpacks. “Fully get rid of the ‘just in case I need it’ category,” he said. “If and when you need it, you can buy it.”

4. Think Tetris: The best way to fit everything into one bag: Fill every inch of space. For example, footwear should be stuffed with socks. Then lay your shoes together heel to toe at the bottom of your suitcase in a plastic shopping bag to protect clothes from dirt. How exactly you arrange everything in your suitcase is a matter of personal preference. Here are some popular strategies:

Roll your clothes. This helps to maximize space and minimize wrinkles.

Use packing cubes. These smaller bags help you keep your clothes compact and your outfits ordered.

Try the bundle technique . Carefully wrap each article of clothing around a central core, with underwear and T-shirts at the center, and large tailored items like blazers and dresses as the outer layer.

5. Keep liquids in easy reach: “Toiletries should always be placed on top of your suitcase in a clear bag since you never know when T.S.A. might be interested in looking,” said Matthew Klint, a frequent flier and the award expert at Live and Let’s Fly .

6. Never unpack your toiletries: “I recommend keeping a separate toiletry kit for traveling,” said Marie Kondo, author of “The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering and Organizing.” Keeping a set of bathroom products already packed also ensures that you don’t forget a toothbrush or contact lens case that you might use the morning of takeoff, she said. “Keep these items in a small pouch or box in the corner of a cabinet or drawer for easy access when packing for a trip.” To streamline what you need, consider all-in-one options like BB creams, which combine foundation, moisturizer and sunblock. To prevent leakage, double up that plastic bag.

For more on packing strategies, read ” The Right Way to Pack for Travel. ”

Buying a new suitcase? This will make your choice simple.

You don’t need a pile of suitcases to be ready for all types of trips. Luggage essentials can be three key pieces: a carry-on bag, a check-in suitcase and a duffel bag.

This trio, said Anne McAlpin — a travel expert, frequent globe-trotter and author of the packing advice book “Pack It Up” — covers the bases for trips ranging from jaunt through multiple cities to a cruise to a nature-themed journey like a safari. “It’s unnecessary and expensive to have a big collection of luggage because most travelers tend to use the same pieces again and again,” she said.

Here’s how to choose within those categories:

How to Pick Your Carry-On and Check-In Luggage

Though most carry-ons and suitcases have boxy proportions and hard or soft shells, they can vary widely. That makes picking the best one more complicated than choosing a duffel bag. There are three basic variables to help guide your decision:

1. Two vs. four wheels: Which is the best way to wheel? Two-wheeled bags require you to drag them behind you in a straight line, and pulling heavy ones can be real chore. Four-wheeled bags, also known as spinners, rotate 360 degrees and are easier to maneuver; they can even be wheeled when they’re upright. But their design means that the wheels are more susceptible to damage.

2. Frequent travelers vs. occasional travelers: Travelers who are on the road several times a month need sturdy luggage that won’t fail even several years down the line. The more durable a bag, the pricier it will be — think $500 and up for a carry-on and $700 and higher for a check-in. But Lyle Saltzman, the director of merchandising for Luggage Factory, a Lambertville, New Jersey company selling more than 60 brands of luggage, said high-end bags come with generous warranties. “Many premium brands have a lifetime warranty policy that protects your investment, so if the bag gets damaged, they will repair or replace it for no charge,” he said.

Since occasional travelers don’t rely on their luggage nearly as often as road warriors, they can get by with a midrange bag, which will last them several years, and may have a limited warranty.

3. Soft- vs. hard-shell suitcase: There are benefits to both hard- and soft-side suitcases; ultimately the decision should be based on personal preference. Hard bags are aesthetically sleeker, said Dan Bettinger, an owner of Altman Luggage, a New York company that sells more than 100 brands of luggage. Hard bags also offer stronger protection than soft to the items inside and are less susceptible to wear and tear. As we mentioned earlier, a hard-shelled suitcase will also strictly limit how much you can stuff into your bag — a benefit if you tend to pack too much. And since the new models are made with lightweight polycarbonate, they don’t scratch easily and aren’t heavy. In fact, some models weigh less than soft suitcases, but be wary of a bag that’s too light: its frame may be flimsy.

The upside to soft bags: They tend to be light and have external pockets, which some travelers use to keep items like books or jackets handy. Many soft bags also have some give, a bonus if you like to cram as much as possible into a bag.

How to Pick a Duffel

Duffel is a catch-all term for any large bag made of fabric or leather. Their flexibility is useful on car trips, safaris, ski vacations or any other getaway that requires hauling bulky, odd-shaped gear. Another advantage: Traditional duffels fold up easily when empty, requiring little storage space. Additional features include shoulder straps and wheels that keep them feeling light, and external and internal pockets that keep smaller items from getting lost in the bag.

Recommended Duffel:

Eagle Creek No Matter What Rolling Duffel, $150

This water-resistant, large duffel is sturdy and easy to lug around: It has wheels, a removable shoulder strap that’s padded and adjustable, an external pocket and lockable zippers. And, it folds compactly into the accompanying pouch.

​How Big Should Your Bag Be?

Check-in bags tend to range in size from 24 to 30 inches. Mr. Saltzman encourages travelers to choose a design that’s 28 inches or less because some airlines may consider a 29- to 30-inch suitcase oversized, which could mean paying a fee to check the bag.

​Best High-Tech Accessories

There are bags (almost always hard-cased bags) with GPS tracking, phone chargers, built-in scales, biometric fingerprint locks and other tech features. But both Mr. Saltzman and Mr. Bettinger say you should not necessarily buy one of these yet; the category is new, so kinks in these bags are sometimes still being worked out. They’re also pricey.

You could also turn your current piece of luggage into something more high-tech with minimal effort, and at a lower cost. For ideas on how to do this, read The Wirecutter’s guide to smart accessories for your luggage. The most useful add-on is a Bluetooth tracker to improve your chances of finding lost luggage.

Make planning for your trip easier with these packing lists.

Packing overwhelms even the savviest travelers. What do you really need, and how much should you bring? While the answers may be partly subjective, the experts we spoke to agreed: Whatever the destination, and no matter how long or quick the trip, the biggest mistake is to overpack. “Most people bring along too much stuff and don’t end up using half of it,” said Hitha Palepu, author of “How to Pack: Travel Smart for Every Trip.”

Lugging unnecessary items is time-consuming and cumbersome, she said, because there’s more to pack and unpack and more to keep track of when you’re on the road.

Lists are key to streamlining the process, so we’ve created lists to take the stress out of packing. Christine Sarkis, deputy executive editor of the online travel magazine SmarterTravel, said the secret to packing well is to adapt a packing list to your travel style. “You’ll hone it as you go, and it may change over time, but ultimately, relying on a list is a huge timesaver,” she said. Our suggestions are pared down to the absolute musts for a basic, seven-day trip.

Basic Travel Checklist

Stick to one or two color palettes so outfits are easier to coordinate.

4 to 5 tops, types will depend on the weather and reason for travel

3 bottoms, types will depend on the weather and reason for travel

1 semiformal outfit, like a dress or a suit

7 undergarments

7 socks/stockings

2 sets of separate exercise clothes including socks, if needed

2 sets of pajamas or other sleepwear

1 lightweight foldable jacket or other outerwear, climate-appropriate

foldable rain jacket

Accessories:

3 pairs of shoes: a dressy pair, stylish sneakers that double as workout and walking shoes, and flip-flops for your hotel room, the pool or spa

2 bags: a tote or backpack and a smaller crossbody or clutch.

Inexpensive jewelry, if needed

A voltage adapter, if traveling internationally

Dental supplies: toothbrush, toothpaste and floss

Soap, shampoo and conditioner

Makeup and makeup remover, if needed

A hairbrush and accessories like bobby pins, if needed

Face cleanser and moisturizer

Body moisturizer

Hand sanitizer

Shaving supplies, if needed

Laundry soap sheets or packets of travel-sized laundry detergent, if needed

For Your Carry-On

Eyeglasses, if needed

Prescription medication and vitamins, if needed

A mini-medical kit: bandages, a pain reliever, a topical analgesic and diarrhea medication

Chargers for your electronics

Travel documents, including passport if traveling internationally, along with copies of your passport, identification and copies of your identification.

T.S.A. size-approved toiletries

Lip balm (helpful for chapped lips, common in-flight)

Valuables: jewelry, camera, tablet and/or laptop

Neck pillow and blanket

A change of clothes

Melatonin or other sleep aid to help with jet lag, if crossing time zones

An empty water bottle (fill this post-security)

Entertainment: books, magazines, iPad

Travel-friendly food: nuts, energy bars, whole fruit or a sandwich

Download and print this packing list.

​Beach Vacation Essentials

At most beach destinations you can easily find essentials like the sunscreen you forgot to pack or an extra bathing suit, said Gabe Saglie, a senior editor at the travel deals and advice site Travelzoo. And many hotels lend guests beach toys, beach towels, snorkeling sets and flotation devices; they may also dispense sunscreen by the pool or the beach. “The beauty of a beach vacation is how unencumbered it can be,” he said.

Download our beach vacation packing list here.

​Ski Trip Essentials

A ski vacation means packing enough cold-weather essentials. But rather than loading your bags with bulky sweaters, Ms. Palepu recommends taking tops and bottoms made with Thinsulate, a lightweight, thin material to guard against the chill. They take far less room in your suitcase. You can find Thinsulate clothing at most sporting goods stores.

Download our ski vacation packing list here.

Note: If bringing your own ski gear, expect to pay a few hundred dollars in checked baggage fees for oversize luggage.

​Business Trip Essentials

Ms. Sarkis of SmarterTravel has a packing strategy for business trips: “Since the schedule for most work trips is set in advance, and I know exactly what I’m going to be doing when, I plan out my outfits in advance and use most pieces of clothing three times.”

Download our packing list for your next business trip here.

​When You Travel Off the Beaten Path

If you’re headed to a far-flung region your packing list should include items that protect you against mosquitoes and potentially contaminated water or food. Your nicest clothes aren’t compatible with visits to small villages or going on safari. “Assume everything you own is going to have an impermeable layer of dust,” said Ms. Palepu.

Download our packing list for far-flung trips here.

Cruise Packing List

A cruise is one of the most difficult trips to pack for because your wardrobe has to cover many occasions, Ms. Sarkis said. You may need casual clothing for daytime shore excursions, dressier clothing for onboard dinners and one black-tie outfit for the formal night (standard on many cruises). And it may include stops in different climates.

Download our packing list for your next cruise vacation here.

​Camping Gear Essentials

Camping trips have a packing upside: Since most campers get to their destination by car, they don’t have to pack as compactly as for a flight. Camping doesn’t require dressy clothes; bring rugged gear and base your wardrobe on the climate.

Download our extensive camping trip packing list here.

​Road Trip Essentials

On a road trip, Mr. Saglie said, you have more space for luggage than on an airline, and you’ll need it for items in case your car breaks down or you get a flat. For that reason, many essentials for road trips focus on emergencies rather than efficient use of space.

Download our road trip packing list here.

When packing for a trip with kids, organization and paring down are key.

Packing for a family vacation isn’t easy. Besides keeping on top of your own list, you must anticipate the needs of children who don’t pack for themselves. And while you may survive without any item you forgot to bring, your children likely won’t fare as well without their must-haves, whether it’s a comfort blanket, bedtime book or electronic gadget.

Here’s how to take the headache out of packing for your family getaway.

​The Two Packing Musts For Every Family Trip

Family travel experts agreed on two essentials for any trip, no matter the ages of your kids: packing cubes and a first-aid kit.

Packing cubes: Inexpensive fabric containers (square or rectangular) that zip closed and fit into carry-on bags and suitcases are an efficient way to separate and organize items for multiple family members, said Rainer Jenss, the president and founder of the Family Travel Association , a trade group. “Each person gets his or her own cube so you know exactly whose stuff is whose,” he said.

The cubes, sold on Amazon.com or at a retailers like Target or Walmart, come in varying sizes, and Eric Stoen, the founder of the online family travel site Travel Babbo , recommends using three or four cubes for each average-size check-in suitcase, in addition to saving a small area of the bag for shoes or toiletries.

If you’re staying in multiple hotel rooms or renting a house with several bedrooms, packing cubes act as mini-suitcases and can be divided among the various rooms. And one packing cube that everyone in the family can share: the one for dirty laundry.

First-aid kit: A well-stocked first-aid kit should be a non-negotiable for any family getaway. Mr. Stoen said that he’s rarely been on a vacation with his three children, now ages 7, 9 and 11, without relying on the kit. “It could be a stomach bug, an allergic reaction or a scrape, but there’s always something we turn to our kit for,” he said. (The first-aid kit may also be needed by a grown-up.)

The first-aid kit should include:

Bandages of varying sizes

An antibiotic ointment like Neosporin

Children’s fever and pain medicine

Children’s motion sickness remedy

Thermometer

Anti-itch cream

Children’s allergy medicine

Children’s medicine for stomach flu and constipation

Children’s cold and flu medication

Rehydration tablets suitable for children

What To Pack for Each Child

Pants and/or shorts, depending on the destination

Shirts (long- or short-sleeve, depending on the destination)

1 rain jacket

One dressy outfit

Sweaters or a jacket

Cold weather gear, like hat and gloves, if needed

1 sun hat, if needed

Shoes (flip-flops, sneakers and nicer shoes, if needed) and socks.

Conditioner

Hair brush and barrettes, if needed

Body lotion

Deodorant, depending on the age

They’re the smallest people in your household, but babies need an inordinate amount of gear when they travel, said Lissa Poirot, the editor-in-chief of the online magazine Family Vacation Critic . But the biggest help is that many hotels today lend guests strollers, car seats, baby bathtubs and other infant essentials during their stay. “Depending on where you’re going, you may not have to pack as much as you think,” Ms. Poirot said. And, if traveling in the United States, another way to lighten your load is to order diapers, wipes, baby food and other basics on Amazon.com or Diapers.com, and have these items shipped directly to your destination so that they’re waiting for you upon arrival.

Download and print our infant packing list here.

Children between the ages of 2 and 4 still need a lot of gear when traveling. In addition, their packing list should include plenty of things to keep them entertained. “Toddlers get very squirmy on plane and car rides and need fun ways to stay busy,” Ms. Poirot said.

Download and print our toddler packing list here.

School-Aged Children

When your children turn 5, packing gets easier. Since your kids are used to carrying a backpack to school, they can also carry a backpack on the trip. This is also the age that children may get their first piece of luggage. Mr. Jenss recommends that parents, for the most part, make children responsible for what goes in the bag. “The more involved your kids are in the packing process, the more vested in the trip they’ll be,” he said.

Download and print the child’s packing list here.

While teens should pack and carry their own bags, parents should double-check for the essentials, like a cellphone charger, their I.D., any prescription medicine and eyeglasses, Ms. Poirot said. “Your packing job as a parent at this stage is minimal,” she said.

Download and print the teenager packing list here.

How many bags can I bring through airport security?

Although the Transportation Security Administration has no official limit on the number of bags fliers can bring through security, its employees often won’t allow passengers to enter a security checkpoint with more than two bags: a carry-on and a personal bag, like a purse or briefcase, says Mike England, a spokesman. “Generally, most airlines don’t allow more than two bags on board per person, and it’s our job to help the airlines enforce their rules,” he said. Bags too large to fit through the X-ray machines are prohibited.

Do I have to remove all the liquids from my bags when I’m going through security?

Each liquid, aerosol or gel going through security must be in a container that is 3.4 ounces or smaller, and all liquids must be packed in a single quart-size clear bag. T.S.A. PreCheck fliers generally don’t need to remove this plastic bag from their luggage at security, but all other fliers must. For updated information on security regulations, visit the T.S.A. web site .

Should I unpack or live out of my suitcase?

It depends on how long you’re going for, according to Pavia Rosati, chief executive and founder of the online travel magazine Fathom. There’s no need to unpack for overnight or weekend trips, but if you’re not unpacking, you should be especially careful of your packing strategy so that the items in your bag don’t end up a jumbled mess.

Ms. Rosati’s top tip: Pack your items in the order you’ll be using them — the items you want to use first should be packed last. If you’re arriving at your destination in the evening, for example, and plan on heading straight to bed, pack your pajamas last so that they’re the first thing you see when you open your bag. Have a plastic bag to keep dirty laundry separate from your clean clothes.

For trips longer than two nights, Ms. Rosati said, unpacking is the way to go. “Unpacking gives you a better sense of being in place as opposed to just breezing through it, and it’s a job that takes only five to seven minutes,” she said.

When unpacking, store your belongings in one area instead of spreading them out — it makes repacking easier and reduces the chances of forgetting to repack what you took out of your bags. If your hotel room has two chests of drawers, for example, use only one.

Should I check luggage or not?

Depends who you ask. There are advantages to checking bags: You navigate airports without being weighed down. And once on board, you don’t jockey for overhead space.

But some airlines charge to check in bags, and exiting the airport takes longer because of the wait at baggage claim. Worst of all, there’s always a chance of a bag getting lost.

Checking items may be necessary on certain trips like a ski vacation, where you’ll be lugging bulky sweaters, boots and other equipment that require more than a carry-on bag. Family vacations, too, especially with young or school-aged children, may mean checking bags because of the sheer amount of items you need to pack.

Don’t let the length of the trip dictate whether or not you check in a bag: Ms. McAlpin, the packing expert, traveled for three weeks through Asia and the Middle East with only a carry-on, she said, and all travelers on multi-week trips could do the same. “You can get all your essentials and then some into a carry-on bag, and it’s not a catastrophe if you forget anything because you can always buy it along the way,” she said.

What items should I never pack in my bags?

The guidelines depend on whether you’re checking luggage or not. Don’t pack anything in checked bags you can’t bear the thought of losing, like valuables fine jewelry or a pricey camera) or sentimental items (old family photos that you don’t have any other copies of).

Security should also dictate what you bring. The T.S.A. has a list of items that are prohibited in carry-on and checked luggage. While certain items, like flammable liquids and gels, aren’t allowed in either instance, others are allowed in one but not the other. You can pack a disposable lighter with fuel in your carry-on bag, for example, but not in your checked luggage.

What should I do if my bags are overweight at the terminal?

Weight isn’t usually a consideration for carry-on luggage: Rick Seaney, chief of the airfare comparison site FareCompare.com, said that most airlines have a size limit, but not a weight limit for carry-on bags. “Some small aircrafts, such as those that fly regionally, may have weight maximums for carry-ons, but these planes are few and far between,” he said.

The factors are different for checked bags: Most United States airlines don’t charge excess-weight baggage fees for bags up to 50 pounds each. Bags that are heavier tend to be considered overweight and are subject to excess baggage fees. These fees tend to be hefty and vary by airline and whether you’re flying domestically or internationally.

On domestic flights, Delta Air Lines charges economy passengers an overage fee of $100 each way for bags from 51 to 70 pounds and $200 each way for bags from 71 and 100 pounds. Bags over 100 pounds can’t be checked in at all. By comparison, the fee to check a bag that weighs 50 pounds or less is $25 one way.

The fees and weight limits are different for Delta’s business-class fliers and for international routes.

If you’re surprised upon check-in to find that your bag falls into the overweight category, consider the following two options: for bags that are overweight by a few pounds, Mr. Seaney advised taking out the heaviest few items and repacking them into your carry-on or a second checked bag, if you have one. For bags overweight by 10 pounds or more, buy another bag at the airport and pay the fee for a second checked bag — according to Mr. Seaney, this strategy is often cheaper than the overage bag fee.

Shivani Vora is a New York City-based travel writer who considers herself a very savvy packer. More about Shivani Vora

Michelle Higgins writes the Fix column , offering advice on home renovations and décor. She has covered travel, real estate and other lifestyle topics for more than a decade at The Times. She previously worked at The Wall Street Journal. More about Michelle Higgins

Best Way to Pack a Suitcase to Maximize Space – 25 Packing Tips

By Author Delilah

Posted on Last updated: November 18, 2022

Let’s face it, packing your suitcase is one of the least exciting things to do when you’re going on holiday. Not to mention how difficult it is to fit everything in, and how easy it is to unpack it all when you’re only grabbing out a t-shirt and shorts.

We’ll try to make it easier for you. We’ve flown thousands of miles and lived out of our bags for months at a time. 

In this extensive guide, we’ll share our best travel packing tips for how to pack a suitcase to maximize space that we always follow. These are tried and true recommendations we can’t live without.

Travel Packing Tips

There’s no single way to pack a suitcase, but following these travel packing tips will enable you to fit way more in your bags, reduce weight and have a more enjoyable trip overall.

1. Fold AND Roll Clothes to Save Space in Luggage

Rolling clothing to save space is the oldest trick in the book. Some still argue that folding takes up less space, but the general consensus is that rolling definitely helps. It might just come down to the fact that rolled clothing can be squeezed into smaller spaces and corners than folded clothes.

How to Roll Clothes for Packing

The best way to roll clothes for packing is to fold the garment into a rectangle first before tightly rolling it into a cylinder the width of your packing cube. This will ensure a snug fit, minimize wrinkles when packing clothes and keep things organized.

2. Use Packing Cubes

We used to think there was no need for packing cubes. We were so wrong! You’ll be surprised at how much you can squeeze into these cubes and you can easily separate out your t-shirts, pants, underwear etc. 

This makes it so much easier to find items rather than rummaging through your suitcase trying to find ‘that’ t-shirt. It also means keeping things organised and tidy.

We’ve travelled for up to 6-months at a time living out of our suitcase using a couple of sets of these affordable Bagail packing cubes from Amazon and they’ve been perfect.  They’ve lasted for years and the quality is top notch, especially for the price you pay.  

We recommend them to all our friends and family – they’re probably the best value packing cubes you can buy right now. Sure there are lighter and more durable options but the cost doesn’t

Buy It On Amazon

The next best alternative would be the Amazon Basics packing cubes which we found to be very similar and well constructed, however, slightly more expensive for what you get.

3. Use a Lightweight Suitcase

It’s easy to forget your suitcase takes up part of your weight allowance. The lighter your suitcase, the heavier the items you bring can be. When packing for air travel on budget airlines, you’ll need to be even more conscious of this due to strict weight limits.

Opt for a lightweight suitcase or even consider a large backpack (although we wouldn’t recommend a duffel bag). This is often preferred if moving from place to place every few days or if you’re travelling to somewhere remote with gravel roads where lugging around a wheely bag may get tricky and damage the wheels.

When choosing a suitcase, we recommend one that has 360 degree wheels and a hard outer case, as well as sticking to the best, most popular brands. American Tourister and Samsonite make the best rolling luggage available, whilst AmazonBasics is a great, lightweight and affordable option.

Best Suitcase: Samsonite Freeform

Best Budget Suitcase: Amazon Basics 21″ (honestly, this is perfect for most people)

Best Hard Luggage Set: Samsonite Winfield 2

Best Travel Pack: Osprey Farpoint 40 and Osprey Fairview 40 for individuals, Osprey Farpoint Trek 75 for couples

4. Create a Travel Packing List

Spend five minutes writing down all the items you need to bring, and this packing tip will save you so much time and stress in the long run. It’s so easy to forget the little things like a phone charger, pen or a hairbrush.

Creating a structured packing process is essential. Write everything down and tick the items off your travel packing checklist once you’ve packed them. You can even prepare multiple packing lists for various types of trips. For example, we have different packing lists for snow trips compared to beach holidays.

5. Pack Travel-Sized Toiletries

Liquids tend to be quite dense and heavy, so only packing what you need will free up both storage space and weight in your bag. It’s a great idea to pack toiletries after transferring the liquids into smaller bottles.

A pack of four bottles is enough to last one month of holidays for two people. We’d fill them with shampoo, body wash, conditioner and body moisturiser.

For trips longer than a month, we’d still carry these around. Many hotels and hostels provide you with a small bottle of shampoo and soap, so we’d save these and fill our bottles when required. 

There are heaps on Amazon to choose from and they’re super affordable and well worth the investment. These ones look awesome and are the perfect size (four 100ml bottles) – we’d buy them if we didn’t already have some!

Just remember the TSA liquid’s rule (many international governments also follow this rule) if you plan to bring them on your carry-on – don’t bring any greater than 100ml.

6. Leave Half the Clothing You’ve Packed at Home

I’ll admit, I’m guilty of overpacking every time, even for full-time travel with 40L of luggage space. One of our favourite travel packing tips is, once you’ve created a packing list, remove half of the clothing items on there. If you pack something as a ‘just in case’, you’re probably not going to use it.

7. Pack Travel-Sized Towels

I don’t mean to sound dramatic, but the Sea to Summit Drylite Travel Towel changed my life. It takes up a fraction of the space of a regular microfibre travel towel and folds down to the size of my hand!

Towels take up so much space in your bag, so opt for a travel towel. Make sure you pick one that absorbs water well and doesn’t smell after multiple uses.

The Sea to Summit towel often sells out, and although we’d recommend trying to find it, this one by Bagail looks to be the same material so should get the job done the same.

8. Utilise Unused Space When Packing a Suitcase

Shoes are the biggest culprits of unused space in your suitcase. Store socks in your shoes, or whatever else you can find that fits.

If you’re planning on bringing a collared shirt and a belt, roll the belt up to fit inside of the collar. It’ll help the collar to keep its shape while in transit and prevent wrinkles.

Pile all of your bras on top of each other, lining up the cups. Fold a bra in half down the middle, and store a few socks between the cups. Not only are you saving space, but it’ll also help the cups keep their shape.

9. Reduce Shoes in Your Luggage

Shoes are incredibly bulky items and can be awkward shapes to pack.

Limiting the number of shoes should be your first point of call to maximize suitcase space – they just take up too much room. All you really need is a comfortable pair of walking shoes and some sandals.

Ditch the heels. Especially if you’ll likely be out and about during the day, then go straight out to a restaurant and bar at night. Instead, choose a nice sandal you can wear all day and night.

Best Travel Shoes

There are two pairs of comfortable shoes I swear by for both holiday and everyday use. Birkenstocks (I have the Arizonas) and Adidas Ultraboosts (we have the men’s 4.0 and the women’s 22). They’re both unisex as well which is a bonus.

10. Pack Dryer Sheets For Dirty Laundry

Put dryer sheets in your dirty laundry bag to keep your clothing from smelling, especially if you’re unable to do your washing for a week or more. The sheets take up virtually no space in your checked luggage.

11. Pack Travel-Size Makeup in Your Suitcase

When travelling full-time I need to cut down my beauty products significantly, opting for a very lean kit allowing for more space in my checked bag.

Fortunately, a lot of brands offer their most popular products in smaller packaging that is convenient for travel.  Here are some of my favourites:

• Tarte Tarteist Mascara – A great mascara in a small size.
• Benefit Roller Liner – Thin and accurate eyeliner that is absolutely tiny.
• Benefit Lip and Cheek Stain – Benetint is my favourite colour for a light blush or tinted lips
• Tarte Tarteist Palette – Blush, bronzer & highlighter in one
• Mario Badescu Facial Spray – A refreshing, must-have facial spray for anyone travelling for long hours. 100% game changer.
• Sponge Blender – Switch out your foundation brush, concealer brush, setting brush, face brush and more. This is the ultimate travel makeup tool. 
• Biore UV Aqua Rich Sunscreen – The only sunscreen we’ve found that feels like it isn’t there. It’s super thin and doesn’t leave your face greasy, plus the SPF is legit.

12. Use Zip Lock and Plastic Bags for Storage

You’ll never know when these will come in handy; whether you need a place to keep wet swimwear, dirty laundry or leaking toiletries a plastic bag always comes in handy.

13. Ditch the Umbrella or Bulky Raincoat

Umbrellas and big raincoats are bulky. Ditch these and buy a light, pocketable raincoat. Don’t be fooled by a jacket advertising ‘water resistance’ as this will only withstand showers. Instead, make sure you’ve got something waterproof.

For anyone looking for a cheap, lightweight AND waterproof rain jacket the Marmot Precip Rain Jacket for Women and for Men are undoubtedly the best value rain jackets you can buy.  At under $100 and under 300g nothing comes close.

We’ve found the brand Marmot to be great for waterproof raincoats. Even better, they’re pocketable so they take up barely any room and are convenient to carry around during the day. Great for both hot, humid weather and for colder weather, they’re easy to layer underneath.

14. Pack Two Full Outfits in Your Carry On Luggage for Air Travel

Fingers crossed your luggage doesn’t go missing, but if it does happen, you’ll be prepared. If you’ve got space, pack your bathing suit, another pair of shoes and plenty of underwear too. Be sure to pack all your chargers and tech equipment as well.

15. Pack an International Travel Adaptor

Travel adapters are bulky to pack, especially if you’re travelling to multiple countries with different power outlets.

Our Belkin one is our favourite as it has two USB ports to charge our phone and two powerpoints. We’ve found this Joomfeen Travel Adapter to be a lot more practical though. It’s smaller and has retractable pins which prevent any damage and makes it an easier shape to pack.

We recommend checking the voltage of your destination countries beforehand as this may affect the adapter you should buy.

16. Bring an Empty Water Bottle in Your Carry-On Bag

Once you’re through customs, buying water is incredibly overpriced. One of our favourite travel packing tips is to bring an empty water bottle that you can fill up before getting on the plane.

Hydroflask makes the best water bottles for travel. We love ours, they are extremely durable, packable and keep drinks warm or cold thanks to the insulation. The only issue is the weight, a tradeoff ultralight travellers may not wish to make.  

Our favourite is the wide-mouth Hydroflask with straw .  It’s the most convenient and keeps drinks warm/cold for hours.  

Some of the more sustainable travellers we’ve met have opted for the Grayl GeoPress which allows them to drink tap water anywhere in the world and filter it quickly in the bottle.

17. Consolidate Chargers With a GAN Charger

GAN chargers are a life changing innovation that now allow travellers to charge multiple, high-powered devices from one charger. 

Our favourite for most people is this Amazon Basics 2-Port GAN Charger . It offers two ports, one with enough power to charge your cellphone and another high-powered port for charging a laptop.

We have a lot of high-powered devices so we use this more powerful Anker GAN Charger which is an absolute beast.

18. Pack Shoes in Shower Caps

You never know what’s on the underside of your shoes so don’t let this touch your suitcase. Instead, place shoes in shower caps (these are sometimes provided in your hotel room) or simply opt for a plastic bag.

19. Choose Multi-Purpose Items

It is efficient to pack items that can serve multiple purposes, so you can cut back on what you have to bring. This will help free up extra space for other items and stay under your weight limit.

There will be an upfront cost if you don’t already own these items, but it’s totally worth it if you’re looking to maximise your baggage space and pack your suitcase efficiently.

Sarong: Great to wear to the beach, use a picnic blanket or for covering up when visiting a temple.  A lightweight sarong will get a lot of use on your trip.

Snap-lock bags: make your bag leak-proof from toiletries, keep small items from getting lost, store dirty laundry and store shoes to keep the soles off your clothes. You can even attempt to use them as compression cubes.

Paper clip: keep your travel documents together but also use it to get your sim card out of your phone.

Bulldog Clips: keep your travel documents together and use them to cover your razor and toothbrush.

Safety pins: these come in handy to mend clothing, attach wet laundry and remove a splinter. I use these to pin a secret pocket to the inside of my pants so I have money available in an emergency.

Coconut Oil: Coconut oil has so many uses. A moisturiser, lip balm, sunburn relief, leave-in hair conditioner, and even shaving cream. A little goes a long way so you won’t need to pack much at all.

20. Build a Travel First Aid Kit

This is probably the only item in your suitcase that you hope you’ll never have to use, but you should definitely have on hand.  I know I was glad when I injured myself on a hike in New Zealand !

We’ve built up our own first aid kit to ensure we only brought the absolute essentials. However, there are plenty of options you can buy online. 

This First Aid Only First Aid Kit is a great option for people looking for something they can buy once without needing to buy individual items. Just bear in mind, it may contain a few extra items that you may not need (you can always take them out)

To save money and maximise space in your bags, we’d recommend you make one up and only take what you need. Our kit doesn’t take up much room at about  7” x 5” x 3”.

This is what’s inside ours:

• Medications: Ibuprofen, paracetamol, imodium, sore throat lozenges, antihistamines and cold/flu tablets
• Antiseptic cream for cuts/grazes
• Antihistamine cream for mosquito bites
• Band-aids/plasters
• Alcohol swabs to clean wounds
• Oral rehydration sachets for dehydration or food poisoning
• Small pair of scissors
• Sewing equipment: Needle, thread, buttons and safety pins

We carry this in our daypacks daily for that ‘just-in-case’ moment. If you do the same, remember to remove the scissors, needle and safety pins from your carry-on luggage before flying.

21. Keep Like Items Together

When going through airport customs, the last thing you want to do is fish around your bag looking for all your liquids. Don’t be that person who holds up the line! Keep everything together in a ziplock bag and it’ll make life so much easier.

This also goes for things like cables, camera gear, toiletries etc. It just makes it easier when looking for something in your bags.

22. Reduce Weight by Wearing Bulky Items On The Plane

If you’re aiming to pack efficiently, try wearing your bulkiest items on the plane. This automatically frees up space in your suitcase.

My partner got a mid-thigh length duffle coat tailored in Vietnam. Wearing this home on the plane saved about ⅛ of our baggage space. Planes are always air-conditioned and it can get quite cold. You should always bring a jacket anyway, so wear your bulkiest one on the flight and you’ll save even more space.

This doesn’t just apply to coats and jackets. Think sunhats (which can also be awkward shapes to pack) and bulky boots.

23. Consider Clothing Material & Colours

This is an easy way to reduce the amount of clothing you need to bring, especially if you are packing for a long vacation. Packing neutral clothing makes it easier to match with and thus allowing for more outfit combinations. 

If you love wearing colour, consider packing colourful dresses that you’d wear by themselves, whilst sticking to neutral t-shirts and bottoms that you can mix and match easily.

It’s also a good idea to choose lightweight clothing materials to reduce weight in your suitcase.  Materials like merino wool and synthetic sports fabrics are super lightweight and great in hotter areas.

24. Pack Heavy Items at the Bottom of Your Suitcase

It’ll be easier to wheel around your suitcase if you pack the heavier items at the bottom. Pack toiletries and shoes at the bottom of your suitcase. If you have any lightweight or fragile items then it is a good idea to pack these securely at the top.

25. Dry Your Laundry on a Travel Line

Holidays longer than 10 days will usually require doing the laundry at some point.

Pegs take up a lot of room, whereas a piece of string on its own doesn’t cut it especially if you’re hanging clothes outside and don’t want anything to blow away or disappear.

This Sea to Summit clothesline is woven together tightly, allowing you to attach your laundry securely (just stick a corner or each clothing through the holes) without using pegs.  We find it better than the ones with suction cups (which end up falling off).

How to Pack a Suitcase

The best way to pack a suitcase is to use a combination of rolling clothes, packing cubes and lightweight travel items. These packing tips will enable you to maximize the space inside your suitcase allowing you to pack more for your trip.

How to Pack Clothes to Save Space in Your Bag

The best way to pack clothes is to use the fold and roll technique. Start by folding your garments into a rectangle, then roll them into a tight cylinder the width of your packing cubes.

In addition to this, aim to pack small and light-weight clothing in your bags– you should leave the bulky items at home. Here are a few tips for how to pack clothes to save space:

• Fold & roll clothes
• Narrow down your must-have clothes
• Only bring light-weight, small garments
• Pack clothing in packing cubes
• Bring clothes with multiple purposes

How to Pack Shoes

The best way to pack your shoes in a suitcase is by isolating them in a separate bag. Start by ensuring your shoes are clean and as odour-free as possible before flipping them and placing them inside a plastic or fabric bag with the soles facing out. Lastly, place this bag in the bottom corner of your suitcase.

An extra tip is to fill the shoes with small items of clothing such as socks. We also aim to compress the shoes as much as possible by pushing other items up against them.

How to Pack a Suitcase for a Flight

Packing a suitcase for a flight requires packing as densely as possible, without going above the airlines’ weight limits. Follow tips such as rolling, using packing cubes and packing small, lightweight items.

In addition to the tips on this list, we highly recommend researching your airline’s luggage requirements. Ensure your suitcase is within the physical dimensions allowed and the final weight of your luggage doesn’t exceed the limits.

Does Rolling Clothes Save Space?

Rolling your clothes when packing will save space inside your suitcase. Folding alone can help to keep things organized, but will cause air pockets making it difficult to fit as many garments in. 

How to Pack Shoes in a Suitcase

The best way to pack shoes in a bag is by isolating them in a separate bag. Start packing by ensuring your shoes are clean and as odour-free as possible before flipping them and placing them inside a plastic or fabric bag with the soles facing out. Lastly, place this bag in the bottom corner of your suitcase.

Should You Unpack or Live Out of Your Suitcase?

For shorter trips the time and effort of unpacking and repacking your bags typically doesn’t outweigh the organisational benefits of having your bags unpacked at your destination.

When you spend over a week in a destination you can start to see some of the benefits of unpacking your suitcase.  However, we would typically recommend following the packing tips above to keep your suitcase well organised.  This should make it easy to find what you need without unpacking.

If you do choose to unpack your bags, make sure to keep track of where you store your items as you run a higher risk of leaving something behind.

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Really this is a fabulous post for me to move first time with my essential material to my new destination.

74 Best Suitcase Packing Tips - Master Your Luggage Like A Travel Ninja

Wise old Confucius might have said “The journey of a 1000 miles begins with one step”.

But he was wrong.

It starts by packing your suitcase.

I should know. I’ve done it at least 1000 times. And that’s not an exaggeration.

I’ve learned each of these lessons the hard way so I can teach you the easy way. This is the culmination of years of gruelling travel experience distilled into an easy, practical guide that will transform you from a packing pansy into black-belt travel ninja .

This thorough reference includes what you need to pack into your suitcase, how to avoid the common planning pitfalls, and secrets to keep your luggage as light as possible, so you can focus on the fun times in your upcoming vacation rather than sobbing in a slumped heap on the floor at the airport luggage check-in desk.

Once you’ve read and absorbed the deep wisdom found on this page, travel will become more effortless. You’ll glide through the airport with a zen-like peace on your face. Fellow passengers will watch you find your seat and nimbly whip out everything you need, with the grace, focus, stealth and steely stare reserved for master ninjas. And you’ll strut into your hotel lobby with a magnetic confidence that will make heads turn and jaws drop.

Well, something like that anyway.

I think I’ve hyped this up enough. Let’s get to it.

If you only heed a single best piece of advice from this article, use packing cubes . And wear sunscreen.

Packing Strategy

1. Make a packing list . Benjamin Franklin said that “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”. And that same axiom applies to luggage. If you fail to plan you plan to fail. Ok, enough cheese. You get the idea. Write down (or type on your phone) a list of every item you want to include in your suitcase and think about each one. Carefully. Visualise how you’ll be spending your vacation and what items you’ll need – clothing, accessories, shoes, toiletries, and gadgets. 

2. Keep your list. When you return home, look at anything you didn’t use and cross it off the list. Use the same list next time you pack, and over time your packing skills will become as sharp as double-edged ninja star.

3. Pack less than you think you need. On my travels, I’ve met two kinds of travellers: those who pack light and those who wish they did. Novice travellers will try to cater for every possible scenario. Ninjas know what they’re doing and understand they can always buy what they need at their destination if they get desperate. As a benchmark, lay out all your clothes on the bed and then put back at least one third. Everyone’s style is different so there’s no one-size-fits-all solution here. But just be ruthless with yourself.

4. Pack with a plan. There’s plenty of strategies floating on the interwebs about how to place items in your suitcase. The secret is… there’s no one perfect method, so play around and choose one that suits you. The key is to be flexible. Try placing shoes around the outside of the suitcase in single file, with the sole facing the edge. Or try placing water-resistant items (such as rain jackets) at the top near the zipper/handle in case your suitcase is left on the tarmac in the rain and water leaks in (cough, cough, I’m looking at you Air Canada). Pack heavier items towards the wheels (shoes, jeans, toiletries), and lighter items nearer to handle (the “top” when upright). This keeps the centre of gravity as low as possible, reducing the chance of the suitcase tipping over. And it makes the bag much easier to roll.

5. Measure. This might sound anal, but pull out a measuring tape (cloth or metallic is fine) and gauge your suitcase dimensions before deciding what packing cubes you need. Or you can be lazy like me and just look up the internal dimensions of your suitcase on the Internet. Map out how you plan to lay out the packing cubes inside the suitcase. I just used a piece of paper and a little mental mathematics. Leave a little wiggle room in case the cubes swell with clothing.

Ninja tip: If you’re using a clamshell-style case suitcase that is 28 inches or larger, then chances are the packing cubes can be positioned on their sides (white mesh facing the side, rather than up) to maximise the use of space. The other upside is the handle on the packing cube is at the top, for easy access.

To get you started, eBags Ultralight Packing cubes are the following dimensions:

• Small: 6.5” x 6.5” x 3.5” (16.5cm x 16.5cm x 8.9cm)
• Slim: 13” x 6.5” x 3.5” (33cm x 16.5cm x 8.9cm)
• Large: 13” x 13” x 3.5” (33cm x 33cm x 8.9cm)

Tip: Can't decide what to put in your suitcase? Check out my latest Christmas gift ideas for travellers .

6. Practice makes perfect. Don’t be afraid to do a “dry run” and try packing everything a few days before your trip. It’s less stressful than doing it 30 minutes before you leave for the airport. If you’re an organisational lover then try laying out all your items on the floor or bed so you can get a holistic view of your luggage… and it also makes for a fancy top-down photo so you can make your friends on Instagram jealous about your exotic getaway. 

Tip: Love travel planning? I use Airbnb and Booking.com to find accommodation bargains.

7. Plan to wash . if you’re travelling for over 10 days, plan to do a load of laundry (if possible) to reduce the volume of clothes you need to bring along. Airbnb properties usually clarify if a washing machine if it’s available, and some value-priced hotel chains (particularly in the US) have coin-operated laundromats within the property. Check the hotel facilities or find the nearest laundromat ahead of time. Another option is a DIY sink-wash with a little laundry detergent (pack in a small Ziploc bag), or check out this new ingenious invention .

8.   Go ultra-light.  If you can get away with only taking a  carry-on bag , do it. It feels wonderful strutting out of the airport as soon as you land, walking past the jet-lagged zombies salivating around the luggage carousel like tasty brains are zipping past on a sushi-style conveyer belt.

9.   Choose a  lightweight suitcase . Don’t waste your weight limits on a heavy suitcase. Check the weight  before  you buy. I avoid extra bells and whistles that weigh down the bag like a fancy built in power bank. A pound saved on the suitcase is another pound of clothes you can pack. 

10.   Choose luggage that rolls easily . When you’re running late, it can be the difference between making or missing a flight. And every other time, it just makes your life more enjoyable. It really does pays to spend a little more on quality  hardside luggage . In my early travels, I made the mistake of scrimping on suitcases. Better quality luggage will work out cheaper in the long run.

11.   Decorate your suitcase . Add a coloured tag, sticker or even a piece of fabric to the handle to make it easier to identify on the luggage carousel at the airport. Or if you’re a true ninja, stick with black.

12.   Lock it.  Make use of the built-in lock if your suitcase features one, otherwise buy a  travel-friendly padlock  that is TSA approved. If you use a non-TSA compliant lock, you might find it cut or broken when you pick up your suitcase from the carousel. If you don’t lock it, you could end up like  Shapelle Coby .

13.   Bring a soft-sided shoulder bag, tote or  backpack .  These are ideal for short day-trips, take minimal space in the suitcase and can be squashed flat like a pancake. Ideally, opt for an  anti-theft backpack .

If you need advice on what suitcase is best for you, try asking the experts at Kaehler Luggage . They have a wide range of top brands and very reasonable prices. And they’re nice folks too.

Packing Your Suitcase

Clothes & shoes.

14. Keep it smooth. Choosing clothing that is wrinkle-resistant reduces the need to pull out an iron while on holidays. You probably don’t enjoy doing the ironing at home, so put it away on your time off! If do you enjoy ironing, then you definitely need a holiday.

15. Mix ‘n match outfits. Choose clothes that are flexible for multiple looks. This means choosing complimentary colours across the wardrobe where possible. I typically go with blues, greys, and blacks. Ideally one top can be matched with different bottoms and vice versa. Each trip is different and this rule can be bent if you need to go to a business meeting or formal event. 

16. Accessorise. An easy alternative to bringing another outfit. Add a scarf, tie, (collapsible) hat, bracelet or ninja utility belt to give an existing outfit a new look.

17. Roll instead of folding soft garments – t-shirts, shorts, jeans, knitwear. This is a very popular packing tip, and chances are you’ve heard it before. But remember, some clothing items don’t roll well – like stiffer fabrics and dress pants/skirts, these should be folded. Folded garments must be placed on top of rolled garments to avoid wrinkling.

18. Fold + roll. To optimised the space in a narrow packing cube, fold t-shirts to width of packing cube and then roll. This will avoid wasting space and makes it easier to find a specific t-shirt compared to stacking multiple garments on top of each other.

Travel tip: Packing a suitcase is just the start of the adventure... book your bus, ferry train or car on Bookaway.com .

19. Divide & conquer. Pack cubes by weather and "look" rather than just all the same types of garments in the same cube. It may sound a little counter-intuitive at first. But this tactic is particularly handy when you have just a couple dressy or formal outfits. I keep my button-up shirts and smart pants in the same cube so I can quickly grab a whole outfit when I need it. This also reduces the chance of infrequently used clothing getting dirty or wrinkled when it is dislodged as more frequently used garments are placed in and taken out of the packing cubes.

20. Colour code. If travelling with a friend, spouse or family member,use a different colour packing cube for each person. If you have shared items (such as toiletries), use a 3 rd colour. This is super useful in dark hotel rooms. Or if you’re travelling by yourself, use a different colour to differentiate between types of garments (like shirts and shorts) or specific looks (beach, casual, smart, dressy, formal).

21. Invert. Pack light-coloured clothing inside out to avoid embarrassing stains from shoes or other items in the suitcase.

22. Poncho . Pack those separately in a waterproof bag to for an easy grab-n-go situation. Take the concept a step further and attach the bag to your backpack via a carabiner. This way if you don’t end up using the poncho, you can throw it back in the suitcase. The strategy also works with swim suits, scarves, beanies, gloves. Whatever the weather-specific accessory – keep it separate and easily transportable.

23. Drop the extra shoes. As a general rule of thumb, 3 pairs of shoes are more than enough for most trips (unless you’re a fashionista) – a casual flip-flop or loafer, sneakers and a dress shoe. Or if you’re more inclined to the outdoors, replace the dress shoe with a hiking boot. Try to wear the heaviest or bulkiest shoes on the flight, and pack the other two.

24. Comfy shoes. I always choose comfort over style, and quality over price. Painful blisters on your feet don’t make for a fun vacation. This extends to socks too. If you’re planning on doing a lot of walking or hiking, invest in a quality pair of socks (I use FITS Socks ). When I started doing this I was shocked and the difference it made. 

25. Stuff ‘em. Fill shoe cavities with socks to save space. Alternative stuffing options: electronics chargers, belts, underwear, gold bullion (just kidding… give that to me instead!).

26. Bind em’. Tie flip-flops together with rubber bands with the sole facing each other. This prevents the potentially dirty bottoms from touching other garments in your bag. I’m also a raving fan of rubber bands – there’s boundless ways to put them to use, from sealing food bags to preventing disobedient knick-knacks from straying to holding your ninja stars together.

27. Wrap ‘em. Wrap shoes in plastic bags for the same reason. If you want to get a little fancy, lightweight shoe bags do the same job… but with flair.

28. Split ‘em. If flying with 2 large checked-in suitcases, split your clothes between each in case one suitcase gets lost by the airline. Then once you arrive at your hotel, rearrange the seasonal clothing back into one suitcase each (eg. one bag for summer and the other for winter). It’s one of those situations that you hope never happens, but when it does, the time taken to do this will be worth it.

29. Extra plastic. Bring a spare plastic bag to store wet swimwear in case you go swimming on the last day of your vacation, before departing to the airport for your return flight. This prevents wet swimwear, possibly doused in chlorine, from staining dark clothing. It’s always a good idea to wash swimwear in fresh water after use. However, remember to take this bag straight out as soon as you get home to dry out the garments. I’ve forgotten once or twice and woke the next day asking “what’s that smell?”.

30. Plan for dirty laundry. Keep spare packing cube for clothing and ninja suits in need of a wash. This prevents smelly clothes from sharing their aroma with clean clothes. If your socks, underwear or t-shirts are particularly pungent, use an air-tight bag or simply a plastic bag tied at the top. Just remember to wear a gas mask when you re-open it.

31. Disappearing jacket. Now you see it… now you don’t! Save space by cramming your bulky puffer jacket inside a zipped neck pillow case . The neck pillow can be placed in carry-on luggage or even worn through the airport (if you want to look like a hard-core flyer). This tip is one of the most ingenious ideas I stole from an experienced traveller recently. As an added bonus, if your luggage is lost by the airline you've still got a warm jacket on hand.

Toiletries & Health

32. Cling wrap. If you’re travelling with shampoo, remove the lid and add a layer of cling wrap over the opening before replacing the lid. This reduces the chance of leaks and explosions caused by air pressure changes in an airplane cargo hold. 

33. Go small. Even better, buy re-usable travel size bottles for the toiletries bag – replace the full-size shampoo, conditioner, body wash and sunscreen, and squeeze those into travel-size containers.

34. Avoid busting. Only fill up your travel-sized bottles three quarters full. The cargo area on a plane is not pressurised like the passenger cabin, and liquids expand at high altitudes. Although your shampoo probably smells pleasant, you probably don’t want it all over your suitcase… and spare ninja uniform.

35. Give me a solid. For short vacations, sometimes the only reason why you have to bring a checked-in suitcase is for liquid toiletries. Try a solid shampoo and deodorant . It might just do the job, and save you paying for extra baggage. I’ve been using an organic solid deodorant for a while and can’t go back.

36. Ditch the charger. If you use an electric toothbrush and are travelling for 10 days or less, leave the heavy charger base at home. You’ll be fine without it, and if worse-case-scenario the battery runs flat, then you’ll just have to brush the old-fashioned way.

37. Say no to drugs. Pack any pain relievers and vitamins in small Ziploc bags , but cut out the packaging front or back (which shows the active ingredients) so it’s easily identifiable. This reduces the bulk and lightens your load at the same time. And it looks a lot less suspicious if your bag is checked by border control at the airport.

38. Doctor bag. For faster packing, have a ready-to-go health/medical kit standing by which includes a few Band-Aids for minor scrapes and cuts, Neosporin, cold medicine, and medicine for stomach trouble. It’s the only thing you pack that you hope you never need. Other than your ninja sword .

39. Adapters. Pack a universal power adapter , or two. Be careful to check your electrical items are rated for international voltage (110 – 240V) before using overseas. Often hair dryers and electric toothbrush chargers are not. On the upside, most hotels will provide a hair dryer and your toothbrush can go for a while without charging. 

40. Go full. Charge all your electronics at home before you leave. This includes any spare batteries for cameras. I know, I have to write that tip for myself too.

41. Warning: fragile. Always bring fragile camera and computer gear in the carry-on bag with you, and never check it in. If you do, there’s a good chance your travel insurance won’t cover breakages. I never go anywhere without my  Vanguard Alta Fly 49T carry-on bag.

42. Digital reading. Skip paper books and magazines, and load up your favourite reading material on a Kindle . Save on space and weight, and save a tree in the process.

43. Go loopy. Use Velcro cable ties to loop around USB and power cables. This prevents them from sprawling out like a spaghetti octopus and makes them easier to grab when you need them.

44. Zip everything. Pack water-sensitive items (such as electronics) in Ziploc bags. I use one for my Amazon Fire TV Stick . Bring extra Ziploc bags – they’re always handy, and take up virtually no space or weight.

45. Harden hard drives. Pack external hard drives in a durable waterproof carry case . This absorbs shocks and helps prevent damage to your precious data. Ideally these should be able to withstand ninja star attacks. 

46. Combine accessories. Pack all GoPro accessories in a separate carry case so you can easily access it whenever needed. I also keep a separate lens cleaning cloth in that case as it’s likely to pick up saltwater (which contains minerals and oils) when the GoPro is used in the ocean, and I want to avoid that getting smeared on my DSLR camera lenses.

47. Simplify charging. If you have a lot of devices that need charging (phone, tablet, GoPro, GoPro remote, Internet hotspot, wireless headphones, power bank), consider using a 6-port USB charger . This will reduce multiple bulky electronics adapters and streamline the use of power outlet adapters.

Bonus Tip: Speaking of phones, the easiest way to get fast Internet in any country is aloSIM . Their eSIM is the most important thing you'll pack... and it doesn't weigh anything!

48. Test beforehand.  If you’ve purchase new electronics items, test them out well before your departure date to ensure they work properly (and you have time to return them in case of faults). It also helps that you’re familiar with your gear so you can feel confident using it on your vacation rather than fumbling along like a newbie.

49. Size your car.  Carefully check the size of your rental car before booking. If you’ve planned well, you should know how many suitcases and bags you’ll have. Good car rental sites will tell you how many suitcases will fit in the trunk. Saving a few dollars with the smallest possible car, might become problematic when your beautiful shiny 30-inch suitcase doesn’t fit. So, if it’s only a few dollars extra to upgrade to a larger size car, your peace of mind is worth it.  RentalCars.com  is one of my favourite rental sites.

50. Split clothing.  On road trips put all the clothing you need day to day in the same bag so you can leave the unused bag in the car, making it easier to get in and out of hotels.

51. Check and re-pack.  Check the 7-day  weather forecast  every evening so you know what clothing will be required the next day and can re-pack accordingly. It’s particularly helpful to review tomorrow’s hour-by-hour temperature and wind speed. Depending on your location, a seemingly warm sunny day may have a surprisingly cold start to the morning. Or what appears to be “shorts” weather may require a sweater because of gale-force winds.

52. Portable DJ bag.  Place car accessories in a sealed carry bag. I bring a USB car charger, audio cable, USB cable and phone mount in a small bag so I can quickly grab that when picking up a rental car. Combine that with  Amazon Music Unlimited  and you’ve got a never-ended soundtrack for your road trip. Tip: if you’re driving in rural areas,  download your playlist  to your phone for reliable offline access.

Everything Else

53. Weigh it.  Use a  portable luggage scale  so there’s no surprises at airport. Don’t push your luck because I’ve found most scales at airports are skewed around 3-5% heavier than hand-held luggage scales. 

54. Feel like home. Rather than living out of a suitcase, move packing cubes into drawers when staying in hotels. It will make you feel more comfortable, and keep the convenience of easy re-packing when it’s time to leave. Just grab the cubes out of the drawer and place back in your suitcase. Re-packing done in 30 seconds or less. Like a mega ninja.

55. Avoid zipper snags. Place your finger under the suitcase or packing cube zipper when doing up to avoid the zipper catching on loose threads. 

56. Avoid brush snags. If you’ve packed a coarse-bristled brush, cover it with a sock to avoid it getting caught on clothes resulting in snags or tears. 

57. Improve the smell. Take a small bag of mild potpourri, fabric conditioner sheets or scented drawer liners, and place in the centre of your suitcase. You'll keep your clothes smelling sweet throughout the trip.

58. Avoid breakages and tears. Wrap fragile items (such as porcelain, vases, bottles of wine, etc.) in soft clothing, like a sweatshirt, and place in the centre of the bag. Clothing around the fragile item will act as a buffer from bumps. If the item has a cavity, such as a vase, then place a t-shirt inside to absorb the shock and reduce the chance of breakage. But I have to ask, why are you travelling with a vase? It might be nice.

59. Fill in empty holes. I try not to over-pack my suitcase, but if you leave too much empty space, the clothing or cubes will move around far more and can get wrinkled or even damaged. If you have a lot of spare space, place your packing cubes at the bottom near the wheels, and make use of a built-in elastic suitcase strap, to minimise movement. The flipside of this advice is that if you’re planning a shopping spree or bringing home a few souvenirs, leave enough room for those.

60. Important documents. Pack a photocopy of your passport and travel insurance documents in your checked-in luggage. If you wear glasses or contact lenses, bring along a copy of your prescription in case you need an urgent replacement. Keep your ninja certification handy too… just in case.

I often get asked about what luggage I use. This changes from time to time as my travel style evolves, but currently I use  Samsonite Omni PC  for my primary suitcases. They are the perfect balance between light weight, strength and durability.

Carry-on Bag

61. Ditch the suitcase.  If spacing allows, use a personal bag (like shoulder bag) to carry on all the items you need (such as laptop, headphones, snacks) rather than in a wheeled suitcase. It’s easier to walk down the plane isle, and makes embarking faster.

62. Handy pills.  Bring any medication you need in your carry-on bag. If it’s in a liquid form and over 100ml, there’s a good chance it can get through security if you have an active prescription from a doctor. These rules will vary by country.

63. Pocket power.  Pack your in-flight essentials in a zippered pocket for easy access – earphones, hand wipes (airplane fold-down tables and arm rests are a haven for germs), tissues and a pen (for filling in immigration forms). I use the  Bellroy All Conditions Essentials Pocket .

64. BYO snacks.  Save money on over-priced airline food, plus give yourself the flexibility to choose healthier options. Use separate Ziploc bags for: sliced apples, dried fruit and nuts, granola bars, Pringles, you name it.

65. No bling.  Avoid wearing and packing excessive jewellery. It attracts unwanted attention and increases the risk of loss. Depending on your travel insurance coverage, expensive jewellery may not be fully covered or covered at all. Ninjas shouldn’t wear jewellery anyway.

66. Compression socks.  I used to scoff at these but not anymore. I recently wore flip-flops on a long flight and my feet swelled up like a balloon. I now use  CEP Recovery+ Pro compression socks . Pack compression socks in your carry-on and pull them out once you find your seat.

Airports & Airlines

67. Check airline weight limits.  Know the limits for checked luggage before you pack your suitcase. Some discount airlines have very strict carry-on weight and size limits (these vary by airline). Often a personal item (like purse or small laptop bag) is acceptable in addition to your regular carry-on luggage. But be careful to check if the carry-on weight limits cover individual items or  combined .

68. Liquid limits. Remember liquid limits in the country you’re flying from and to. In some countries rules for domestic flights are different to International flights. Here’s more information for several countries: USA , UK , Australia , Canada .

69. Refill water. Bring an empty water bottle to the airport so you can fill up after going through security. Many airports have water fountains otherwise most restaurants will fill your bottle with tap water if you ask nicely. If you’re looking for a good quality re-usable bottle, check out Hydaway  ( official website ) and Klean Kanteen . 

70. No boom boom. Don’t pack dangerous and restricted items (such as firearms, knives, flammable items, corrosives, glowing radioactive waste). If you’re not familiar with those restrictions, check your airline’s policies and country of departure/arrival ( TSA has some more info ). A cavity search from airport security is not the best way to start your vacation.

71. Hold the gold. Never check in valuable items such as passports, original identification documents, cash, credit cards, jewellery, and electronics. These should always be brought onto the plane with you. If you feel the need to travel with gold bars in your pockets, then send me an email. We need to hang out.

72. Stand straight. I’ve found most airlines are relatively inconsistent when enforcing their carry-on baggage weight checks. It helps when you’re at the check-in counter not to look like you’ve got the weight of the world on your shoulders. You don’t want to draw unwanted attention to your luggage for additional scrutiny.

73. Plan B. If you know your carry-on bag is overweight and are trying your luck, have a fall-back plan. On at least one occasion I’ve walked up to an airline check-in desk wearing several layers of jackets. The pockets were crammed with camera lenses and external hard drives. Fortunately, I wasn’t asked what that bulge in my pants was. I’ll admit, it’s not elegant, but I’m pretty sure there’s no rules preventing that. 

74. Spread the love. Be friendly to the airline ground staff who are helping you check-in. Ask them how they day has been. Adding a bit more kindness into the world has a way of coming back to you. And if you ask super nicely, the staff member might be able to give you a seat in the exit row. It can’t hurt asking.

The Bottom Line

Packing a suitcase is a skill, and a skill worth your learning. It’s a crucial part of mastering the art of travel. By practicing my time-tested travel teachings you’ll be well on your journey towards becoming one with your suitcase. And the universe. But mostly your suitcase. 

With so much to learn, it might seem a little daunting. Never fear, dancing dragon. Take a deep breath, tighten your ninja eye mask, and always remember that I believe in you. And so does Confucius. 

If you enjoyed this article, you might also like...

• Our Guerrilla Packing Tactics: Check-In VS Carry-On
• Vanguard Sedona 45 Backpack Review: Ultra Light… But Not On Features
• How To Pack 175 Magazines In Your Carry-On (With No Extra Weight)
• World’s Best Travellers Reveal What You SHOULD Pack In Your Suitcase
• American Tourister Luggage Review: Duralite 360 3 Piece Spinner Set
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Reader Comments...

Thanks for providing us such a information. We appreciate your information. Thank you for sharing, I found very useful info here, I was delighted to find this web site. great post.

Vavvv. Very useful info. Thanks

Thanks for all these great tips. Some of them I already practice, but a lot are some I am going to try on my next trip.

Some great tips in this post will certainly keep these in mind when traveling the next time. I make my reservations from Cathay Pacific to get cheap plane tickets.

This is a very helpful post. I am definitely gonna try some of these.

Awesome tip for 2018. Made me want to look back (packing blunders). Remembered how i almost ruined a family trip. Went to Beijing last year with the family and our 1-year-old kid. It was a fascinating trip. Would have been ruined if I did not check in our car seat, thanks to our car seat cover https://goo.gl/bNM3U5 we were able to gate check our car seat.

This is simply amazing! Keep up the good work.

The main problem comes through traveling is this only that from where to start the packing our baggage. Thanks for sharing such a helpful article.

That's quite an interesting article Josh, and I find it really useful, As a corporate traveller, packing things is literally hectic work, and I am going to follow your tips for my upcoming travels. Hope this parking trick could save some space.

Some great tips here. I would strongly advocate trying to travel only with a carry-on/no checked luggage. Every year my wife and I do a major trip of 1-2 months. This past year we travelled for 2 months in SE Asia using a lot of internal flights. Lots of connections and lots of opportunity to lose checked luggage. We also kept the weight of each bag to 8 kg as that is the limit on some Asian carriers. With that low a limit we each used a small personal shoulder bag (for camera stuff and electronics) and a very light 2 wheeled bag from IT that weighed less than 2 kg. With only 6 kg (13 lb) for bag content you have to make some really tough decisions.

Thanks, Josh - for sharing such a wonderful information as I travel a lot and all the time I have an issue in a packing of my stuff, but after reading your blog I am sure that now I have a proper solution to my packing problem. Please keep on sharing such useful stuff, as I am waiting for your next post.

I like the tip that you gave to measure the dimensions of your luggage before you go on a trip. My wife and I are going on vacation to Cape Verde that I won from work, and we want to make sure that we have everything in order for our travels. I will be sure to measure the dimensions of our luggage to make sure that it meets the requirements given by our airlines, so we will not have to leave some of our luggage at home.

What is the name of the wheeled carry on luggage pictured above that you ise?

Where can i find a neckpillow which can contain my jacket?

It's very informative and interesting post. I am impressed with your post. I like it. Thanks for sharing it.

These are some really helpful tips and extremely detailed. For me packing light is a must and my TUMI V3 carry-on luggage

Some great ideas. Thanks for the help.

I want to bring your attention to let you know I found this post extra informative, from first to last found I found each tip fruitfull. Though I am a travel geek and frequently travel 3 days of a week. Helpful article.

Some very good tips here. My only worry would be putting packing cubes in drawers. Sounds like a recipe to forget one. If I am in a hotel for a few days I will put the cubes on the desk, in the US there is often a 2nd bed, or there is usually counter space near the coffee maker or TV. Call me paranoid, but hiding your stuff in drawers just seems like an accident waiting to happen. God forbid you leave something when you are on the way to the airport.

I love the idea of putting my puffy jacket inside my back pillow case. Best idea I have seen. My jacket fit perfectly.

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My name is Josh and I'm an Aussie who has been travelling the world non-stop for 11 years , and explored 70+ countries so far. I'll help make your next vacation awesome with first-hand guides and essential travel tips.

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Travel Hacks

30+ Essential Suitcase Packing Tips & Hacks That You Need to Copy ASAP

Last Updated: October 30, 2023

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On the hunt for suitcase packing tips?

Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered with this free smart packing guide on how to pack a suitcase like a pro.

If you’re anything like me, odds are: you’re a hopeless over packer. After all, some of us are just born a little weird… like “ I need to pack this parka just in case ” weird or “ of course I’ll read all 7 Harry Potter books this trip ” weird… but this guide will help you get over that.

As someone who has been travelling and living in Europe for the past five years, I’ve learned a thing or two about what packing tips and hacks actually work and what weirdo ones are a total waste of time.

Save these suitcase packing tips for later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

From the basic ‘no duhs’ to some unconventional gems of genius, today, I’d like to share all of my best tips for packing with you!

Especially if you’re headed to Europe.

While I’m still the world master of ‘panic packing’ (aka throwing all my stuff in a suitcase while sobbing), having these tips in mind often helps me hold things together.

So, without further ado, here are my golden essential tips for smart bag packing.

VIDEO: Watch These Travel Packing Hacks and Tips in Video Form

More of a video person? Click here for a video featuring all these tips instead!

Below, you’ll find my full written guide for luggage packing like a pro.

Must-Know Suitcase Packing Tips

Let’s start with some basic luggage packing tips! After five years of travelling professionally, from Indonesia to Germany , these are my best tips to show you how to pack your suitcase like a consummate professional.

1. Always start with a packing list

Packing luggage should always begin with a solid list of what to pack.

I know, this is such a ‘mom’ tip, but there’s a reason why moms are always right. Plus the human brain adores lists.

Especially in the period before a trip when you’re stressed about all the things to do before traveling abroad , it’s all too easy to forget items you need.

That’s why I always make a packing list to keep myself organized!

Feeling lazy? You can steal a comprehensive printable checklist from me below.

Or… if you’re a serial stationary hoarder like me,  this stack of printed packing lists is practical, fun, and will last you a long time.

2. … and always end by reviewing your packing list

It’s silly how often people forget this step.

There’s a reason you made that list!

Make sure you go through all the items the night before you leave (or the morning of) to make sure you haven’t forgotten a single thing, especially the small stuff.

For extra paranoid parrots like me, I always write a “HARDCORE ESSENTIALS” note on my phone that I review the morning of my flight.

Things like passport, money, hair straightener (sorry, I’m vain), and sunglasses (the #1 thing I manage to always forget). This way I know I have everything I absolutely need.

Again, if you buy a packing list pad like this , you can just leave it on top of your bag the night before so you don’t forget to double check it!

3. Know your airline’s baggage fee policy

Every packing guide will give you this tip, but I’m here to underline it and circle it in a bright red pen, especially if you are visiting Europe.

Because seriously, the inconsistency among airlines (especially the budget variety like RyanAir or Wizz Air ) is pretty infuriating.

SO, avoid surprises at the airport by knowing what you’re working with right from the start. A quick Google before you pack can help save you loads of stress (and potential overweight fees!)

You can also invest in a cheap handheld luggage scale  like this one  for less than 10 bucks off Amazon which you can use for years and it’s great for ease of mind.

If you don’t have one already, I also highly recommend buying a compact looking carry-on suitcase like this one.

A lot of the time, attendants don’t care to weigh luggage (when you’re travelling carry-on only) and all they do is take one quick look at the size, so if you have a nice suitcase that doesn’t  look  huge, you’ll be much less likely to get stopped.

Which would I recommend? Well,  this one is near-identical to the Samsonite I travel with, and I’ve never once been stopped for bag inspection! I love the ease of mind it gives me and it can hold a surprising amount of stuff. I travel with it on pretty much every trip!

4. Bring the right bag

One of the most underrated luggage packing tips is to firstly choose the right luggage.

The topic of “best bag for traveling” is highly subjective of course, but I really can’t stress enough how important it is for you to choose the right bag for your travel style and destination.

Bringing the right bag is the difference between breezing through your travel days without crying vs. sobbing in a frustrated puddle on your hotel floor.

Okay – that’s dramatic, but having the right bag is  important. 

For me personally, I’ve outgrown the backpacking stage of my life and tend to do a lot of city breaks, stay in mid-range hotels, and  travel light  because I’m so often on the go.

That’s why I travel with a very compact carry-on hard shell suitcase (almost identical to  this one ).

I think one of these is perfect for European travel because they’re quite handy, easy to carry, fit nicely on trains and overhead bins and still look pretty smart so you don’t feel terribly out of place in fashionable cities like Paris or  Milan .

Of course, if you’re travelling with a family, you’ll need bigger bags, or if you’re backpacking, you’ll need a good backpack.

What’s important regardless of the type of bag you choose is you pick something that…

• A) you LOVE, because you’ll have it ALL the time
• B) something that you’ve tested before
• C) something that you can easily carry because Europe has so many stairs, cobblestones, etc.

5. Roll your clothes

Game. Changer.  

If you’re wondering how to pack clothes for travel, one of my best suitcase packing tips is for you to simply roll your clothes! Seriously, if you’re not currently rolling your clothes instead of folding them, do it!

It saves lots of space, especially when coupled with magical compression bags like these ones (no vacuum needed!) packing cubes (which I’ll discuss later).

The jury is still out on whether it actually saves space or actually minimizes wrinkles but I love it because it makes it way easier to see at a glance what you’ve packed and what items you can choose from.

If you’re feeling especially crafty you can master the art of something called the  Ranger Roll  which apparently is used a lot in the military – it basically rolls your garments into fun little burritos.

This helps compress things but I’m a bit lazy so I just roll like normal and it’s fine.

6. Pick out what you think you need, and cut it in half

The first time I read this tip for packing light , I thought it was absolute insanity.

Then, one time I actually tried it, and you know what? I didn’t regret it at all!

While this may initially feel like a slow painful form of packrat torture, doing this will cut you down to the exact essentials you’ll actually need.

I honestly think that overpacking is hardwired in us, which is why doing this exercise is so helpful.

7. Make use of packing cubes (or in a pinch, Ziplock bags)

If you are wondering how to pack luggage and save space, the answer is packing cubes.

I am obsessed with packing cubes. The amount I own is honestly frightening.

They not only help you stay organized, but also save loads of space in your suitcase/backpack. These are my #1 travel game changers, and if you buy a good quality set, they’ll last a super long time.

I personally use my packing cubes to organize tops, bottoms, etc. but I’ve also heard of people with a different packing cube strategy which involves getting small cubes and separating them into different outfits for each day.

If you want to know which packing cubes to buy, check out my full guide to packing cubes  or watch my video showdown  here.

8. Invest In Protective Covers /Wraps

Now, this tip is more geared towards people like me travelling with any kind of fragile gear like cameras, gimbals, etc.

But really if you travel with anything mildly fragile like perfume bottles or intend to buy anything fragile like mugs… (I love a good a mug) then it’s really handy to have some of these protective wraps with you.

I have two,  this one  from Domke which is a great brand, but also an  Amazon brand one  that does the exact same thing for way cheaper.

They’re basically these padded Velcro wraps that you can use to protect anything. I use them for my camera and gimbal, so I effectively turn any bag of mine into a camera bag and can just wrap any item up really easily and toss it in my backpack.

Of course, you can also use a fluffy scarf or something for the same purpose, but I just think the wraps are a little bit smarter and easier to handle, plus they’re not very expensive so they’re a good purchase if you travel often.

9. Plan Your Outfits

A tough piece of packing advice people hate hearing is that they shouldn’t ever bring things just in case.

This goes for everything, from the random gadgets you think you might need to the extra ballgown you want to bring in case you get invited to a ball.

But really, one underrated packing tip is to plan your outfits in advance – no ‘just in case’s.

Planning your outfits in advance can really help you streamline your vacation wardrobe and ensure you’re only bringing things you’ll actually wear. Plus, it will also help you look better during your trip.

Click here  to check out my minimalist travel packing lists for both Summer and Europe travel.

10. Always pack your absolute essentials and one outfit change in your carry on

Smartly packing for travel means preparing for the worst, so be sure to keep this luggage packing tip in mind!

While only 1% of bags tend to get lost , it will happen to even the best of us at some point… whether the bag is lost,, goes missing or uh, is accidentally taken by someone else in Paris (true story). That’s why it’s so important to have some essentials in your carry-on bag.

Having your essentials and extra clothes on you will bring precious peace of mind, so you’re never that angsty person waiting in fetal position at baggage claim.

11. Keep Some Extra Clothes In Your Travel Buddy’s Suitcase

Another little contingency plan in case your suitcase goes missing is to (if you’re travelling with someone else) make sure to pack some extra outfits in your travel buddy’s bag and vice versa.

This way, if either of you loses your bag, you’ll at least have some backup items. In the crazy off chance that BOTH your bags go missing, well my friends, I’m sorry!

12. Bring a few extra bags (e.g. totes, ziplocks, etc.)

You never know when you’ll need them, especially for things like dirty clothes, which are always an afterthought.

They weigh nothing and come in SO handy, so don’t forget a few!

And if you (like me) are working at reducing plastic usage while travelling , I recently discovered these re-usable silicon Ziploc bags (and mesh produce bags) that would definitely come in super handy for travel as well! Check out reviews and prices here.

 13. Bring A Bag For Dirty Laundry

On that note, even if you don’t bring a bunch of totes or extra bags, make sure at the very least to bring a closable bag for dirty laundry because you definitely want to keep that stuff separated.

… And a bag that zips up or seals is ideal because….. well, I’m sure you’ve smelled dirty laundry before.

14. Keep your liquids in a bag and separate them from your other goods

Many of you probably know this already, but just as a reminder, if you’re bringing any liquids in your carry-on bag, you’ll need to present them separately at airport security so they can be scanned.

One of my favourite carry-on packing tips is to get your own reusable toiletries bag instead of using the bags at the airport.

Since I almost always fly carry-on only, I’ve invested in  this awesome reusable clear toiletries bag  that’s TSA approved so I can easily store all my toiletries in it and just pop it out during security checks.

This is just way more durable and I don’t need to use those dinky plastic bags they provide. 

NOTE: 95% of the time, I’ve had no trouble with this, the only exceptions being random airports here and there mostly in Paris and London I think, but yes if you travel often, a bag like this is a total lifesaver.

If you haven’t yet invested in an excellent travel toiletries bag, I highly recommend you do so. They’re one of the best investments I’ve ever made for travel! You’ll never want to use a dinky single-use Ziplock ever again.

Looking for a durable and affordable toiletries bag for your upcoming travels? Check out my roundup of best toiletry bags you can buy online , or check out this summary table below:

15. Always wear your bulkiest items of clothing on the plane

*Puts on Captain Obvious cape*

Coats and boots are heavy. So, if you plan on bringing them on your trip (when packing for winter in Europe for instance), make sure you’re wearing them so they don’t hog up all the space (and weight) in your luggage.

This is an extreme example (that I do not recommend!!) but check out this hilarious coat that you can stuff all your luggage into.

[Also ideal for smuggling movie theatre snacks]

16. Forget full sized liquids, pack mini versions and buy if you need more

This is one of the top suitcase packing tips for travel I recommend to newbie travellers, and one of my all-time favouite packing hacks.

Seriously, put that full-sized bottle away! There’s zero reason for you to bring it.

There WILL be toiletries to buy where you’re travelling. It’s not worth the unnecessary weight to bring a giant bottle of everything (which I have seen many people do).

17. DIY Your Own Travel Size Toiletries

An additional tip building off the point above is to make your own travel size toiletries instead of buying them.

I still see a lot of people buying mini size toiletries from shops that cost like 1-2 bucks per bottle, but I don’t think this is really practical.

Those mini bottles are a huge waste of plastic and also you’re bound to those specific products, which isn’t great if you use very specific shampoos or cleansers like I do, so I really recommend buying reusable travel bottles like  these affordable silicon ones , which I love.

These are SO handy and SO cheap – definitely travel packing essentials I can’t live without.

With them, you can pack lighter, bring your favourite products with you and it’s a little bit better for the environment.

These leak-proof silicon bottles are perfect for this, and dirt cheap too, but I’ve summarized some other popular options in the table below.

Pssst, if you need a little extra help, read my full roundup of the best travel-size bottles you can buy online.

18. Use Plastic To Avoid Leaks

If you’re packing any liquids, sometimes you might find that they can leak in your bag, which is… obviously not great!

To prevent this from happening, I recommend covering the bottles with something before you cap them.

Now often this tip is given with the assumption that you’ll be using plastic wrap, but this effect can also be achieved if you have a million plastic shopping bags in your cupboard.

Just cut those up and use some little squares to cover instead.

19. Use tissue paper to avoid wrinkles

I haven’t tried this one myself, but many travellers swear by rolling their clothes with sheets of tissue paper, or putting sheets of tissue paper between folded shirts.

This apparently minimizes the friction/pressure, which then reduces wrinkles. Magic!

20. Plan to layer for warmth

Rather than bring chunky sweaters or puffy jackets, think about bringing many layerable items instead.

This is (in my opinion) the most effective way to pack for cold weather, and gives you more outfit choices too!

If you struggle with travelling light, you might also benefit from this guide on how to travel light.

21. Never pack things “just in case”

Let’s be real: more often than not, that case will not come up!

And if by some miracle, you’re in need of a special item, just take that opportunity to indulge in some shopping.

Learn from my mistake: I lugged around a raincoat for 6 weeks in Europe and used it maybe twice… the amount of space it took in my backpack was embarrassing!

And if letting go of the “just in case” mentality sounds impossible, you might benefit from my minimalist packing list/guide .

22. Pack The Heaviest Items On The Bottom Of Your Bag

This is a VERY underrated tip that a lot of people forget about, but when packing your suitcase, make sure to place your heaviest items at the bottom where the wheels are to avoid the suitcase randomly toppling over during your trip. 

Having heavy items on the bottom is the best way to pack a suitcase for stability.

…  The last thing you want is for your suitcase to be imbalanced!

23. Make Sure You Have A Unique Luggage Tag Or Mark Your Suitcase In A Unique Way

Honestly, you’d be shocked at how often people take the wrong stuff at baggage claim.

It happened to me once a few years back. I was travelling with a grey hard top suitcase topped with a cutesy pink tag.

I thought that was already unique, but sure enough, someone took it by accident thinking it was theirs! I only realized when I stood there like a doofus for an hour watching all the bags get taken and the last one left looked suspiciously like mine.

Don’t worry – I eventually got mine after shedding my body weight in tears and whimpering repeatedly.

SO, to avoid this ever happening to you, I suggest you make your suitcase obnoxiously unique… that way it’d be really difficult for someone to think it’s theirs.

Might I suggest this  hilarious sloth cover  urging you to follow your dreams?

24. Bring A Reusable Water Bottle

Most major European cities will have fountains all over where you can get delicious tap water for free and most major airlines are happy to serve you water in your own bottle as well, so that’s why it’s a great idea to take advantage of a reusable water bottle on your travels.

Sure, it may not be the most space-efficient thing to bring but it’s really handy to have, and better for the environment too : )

If you’re worried about bringing a water bottle that’s too bulky, there are a lot of great collapsible water bottles out there with amazing reviews  like this one.

25. Last but not least, don’t forget to leave a little extra space

A list of suitcase packing tips for travel wouldn’t be complete without this important (but often forgotten) gem of wisdom.

Here’s the thing: you’re human… You will inevitably buy something.

The worst feeling is falling in love with an item abroad and having zero space in your suitcase to bring it home.

Pro tip: I have some friends that bring an extra duffle that folds up small so that they have an extra bag for the way home (to hold all the shopping!)

And by ‘friends’, I mean my brother, who once came home from Japan with a suitcase full of Pikachu dolls. Still, a pretty cool packing hack!

More Travel Packing Hacks

Packing for vacation shouldn’t be stressful… and the more packing tips you know, the more prepared you’ll be.

So now let’s move onto some cool travel HACKS, AKA ingenious little tricks that you can use to make packing a little easier and more fun.

26. Pack A Pillow Case

We’ll start with a weird packing hack – pack a pillow case on your next trip!

Why? Well, they weigh nothing and are really multipurpose.

You can, for example, stuff one with clothes or a puffy jacket for a DIY travel pillow, or if you’re staying in a hostel it might be nice for hygiene reasons.

Honestly if you have no other use for it, consider it a dirty clothes bag.

27. Pack A Clothespin Or A Money Clip

Even if you don’t plan to do laundry or um… clip money on your trip, these are great for making a DIY toothbrush stand so you can make sure your toothbrush doesn’t touch the counter or anything gross.

All you need to do is clip it onto the middle of the toothbrush to create a nice little perch for your toothbrush.

28. Use A Tic Tac Case To Store Your Bobby Pins

Bobby pins… you buy them in the hundreds and yet somehow lose them all.

Does this sound like you?

Honestly, bobby pins things go missing ALL the time so it’s really handy to keep them all in one spot, and a Tic Tac case is the perfect size for this purpose.

29. Use A Carabiner For Your Hair Ties

In a similar way, you can use a carabiner to keep tabs on all your hair ties, which means no more digging around in the darkest depths of your bag for one, or keeping one on your wrist at all times. Yay!

30. Store Q-Tips In Old Pill Bottles

If you have any old pill bottles lying around, they’re actually the perfect size for storing Q-Tips, so if you’re big into keeping your ears clean while abroad, be sure to start hoarding those pill bottles ; )

31. String Necklaces Through A Straw To Keep Them From Tangling

This is a really easy thing to do if your necklaces get tangled often – mine personally hold up fine usually so I just keep them in a pouch but if you want an easy way to make sure they don’t get tangled, thread your necklace through a straw and then hook it around.

This way, your necklaces stay in one untangled bundle.

32. Use A Shower Cap To Store Your Shoes

Obviously this is a shower cap you will not be using, but wrapping a shower cap around your shoes is great for keeping your dirty muddy shoes away from the rest of your belongings.

Alternatively, those big zipper plastic bags that bedsheets come in are also great for the same purpose.

33. Stuff Your Shoe With Small Items To Save Space

Ahh yes, efficient packing tips – my favourite!

If you’re really looking to maximize space in your suitcase, consider stuffing your shoes with small items like socks and underwear. You’ll be shocked at how much you can actually cram in there.

NOTE: Just be sure, especially with underwear, to put them in a protective bag first because putting them in your shoes as-is sounds like infection city.

34. Invest In A Universal Adapter

If there’s one travel tool you need in your arsenal (besides my precious packing cubes of course), it’s a universal adapter, especially one with multiple slots for USB chargers too so you can charge multiple devices without a bulky power bar.

This one is great! 

Why should you get a universal adapter?

Well, you can reuse it on every single one of your trips, and even if you’re JUST visiting Europe, there are certain countries that use a different outlet (e.g. the UK, Ireland and Malta), so better safe than sorry. Trust me, the ease of mind is priceless.

35. Bring An Oven Mitt

This is one of my favorite travel packing tips and tricks because it’s so random.

But it’s also super helpful.

If you travel with any heat appliances like I do (e.g. a hair straightener, curler, etc.) then bringing an oven mitt is a genius way to make sure you always have a heatproof surface to rest it on and also a safe place to store it when you need to pack up quickly in the morning.

I have a terrible habit of just tossing my hair straightener on top of my stuff when I travel, which terrifies my boyfriend because… well, nobody likes fires…. but now that I wrap my stuff in an oven mitt, he can breathe a little easier, and we fight a lot less ; )

36. Pack Dryer Sheets To Avoid “Weird Clothes Smell”

If you’ve travelled any time in your life, I’m sure you’re familiar with that “weird clothes smell” that can quickly permeate your suitcase.

Well, packing a dryer sheet or two in your bag will keep that stench at bay! Not only are they very light, they’ll keep your luggage smelling freshy fresh.

Need a recommendation? These ones smell like lavender and are both vegan and cruelty-free.

37. Bring A Frozen Waterbottle Or Frozen Sponge To Keep Your Snacks Cool

Now I’m sure you know you’re not typically allowed any liquids over 100mL on a plane…

But if you want to bring your own drink on board and avoid the $10 airport waters, or if you just want to keep your snacks nice and cool, consider bringing a frozen water bottle as a DIY ice pack and a refreshing drink after you pass security…

Or if you just want an ice pack, a frozen sponge will do the trick.

BONUS: Don’t forget to pack pens!

And okay, here’s a final bonus tip for you, not exactly a hack but something that’s SUPER important and most people forget… Make sure you have a pen in EVERY BAG.

You never know when you need a pen, especially if you need to fill out any customs paperwork, and honestly the little station they sometimes have is like the Hunger Games of pens.

One time I landed at London Stanstead and they didn’t even have ANY pens available, so I had to awkwardly ask a staff person to borrow theirs and it was just… really weird.

#TeamPenForLife

Did I miss any of your favourite suitcase packing tips?

So there you go, years of packing wisdom squished into a single blog post. I hope you found this free packing guide helpful and valuable and if you have any more travel tips for packing you think I should add, Let me know in the comments!

My Go-To Travel Favourites:

🧳 Eagle Creek: My favourite packing cubes

💳 Wise: For FREE travel friendly credit cards

🍯 Airalo: My go-to eSIM

🏨 Booking.com: For searching hotels

📷 Sony A7IV: My (amazing) camera

✈️ Google Flights : For finding flight deals

🌎 WorldNomads: For travel insurance

🎉 GetYourGuide: For booking activities

37 thoughts on “30+ Essential Suitcase Packing Tips & Hacks That You Need to Copy ASAP”

I’m always on the edge about rolling my clothes versus folding them. Right now, I’m still folding them. No matter whatever I hear about the advantages of rolling, I can’t seem to even try to convert!

… and I also have a very, very bad habit of packing things “just in case”, such as extra outfits. Umm… gotta look perfect for my pictures I guess, and have extra changing options. Ha ha.

Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog https://charmainenyw.com

haha why does it worry you? Try it once with packing cubes! Your life will be changed 😉

Great advice! I’m a BIG fan of packing cubes… I can’t believe I had never heard of them until a few years ago. Never have tried the tissue paper method. Will definitely have to, especially on business trips. I also recommend shoe bags as a way to keep organized and clean. Plastic bags are a great alternative but they often leak or get dirty too quickly.

Hey Tam, ahh awesome thanks so much for the link 🙂 <3 And oooh yes shoe bags I love as well! I just got a new packing cube set that came with laundry/shoe bags and I'm in Type A heaven hahah.

Nice Post Christina. I like you tips. Keep blogging

thanks for reading, Julian 🙂

Well I am impressed with these tips always helped a lot

Happy to hear that, Jimmy!

Main thing that i have to add in this list is How do you usually organise all of your electronics, cables, those fiddly bits that take you ages to dig out at security? Stuff them in like the rest of us? Well, if you want to organise your packing then get yourself a stash of ziplock bags. Phone charger, camera charger, adaptors, headphones – take extra plastic bags (the same ones you’d use for hand luggage liquids) and use them to store electrical items, things for the journey home (house keys, parking ticket and car keys), medication and other loose accessories..

well thanks to my packers team a they have did a very well job here

That’s quite an interesting article Christina, and I find it really useful, As a corporate traveler, packing things is literally hectic work, and I am going to follow your tips for my upcoming travels. Hope this parking trick could save some space.

Happy to provide you with any tips to make the experience less stressful! Safe travels, Gloria 🙂

I like how you suggested starting a luggage packing list. I am going on vacation and want to be able to store my luggage properly. Thanks for the tips on suitcase packing tips.

Great article, I believe packing is the most important factor one should keep in mind while traveling, and then comes means of transport which helps to reach your destination on time.

Only buy travel size toiletries once. Refill those small bottles from your large ones at home…or reuse some of those small complimentary ones from the hotel.

Packing is really stressful work. Most of the people are confused about how to the packing. Your blog is very helpful for packing. I also use your tips for packing because your tips are very easy and nice. I like your blog. Thanks!

I have made some packing but after reading this I wondered I havent done anything and so many things to get packed 😀 😀 Thanks for sharing this post <3

Hey, Read your Blog and found these tricks very useful especially that extra bag point because it is very useful and some of us often forgot it.

Rolling clothes is one of my favourite things to do. I find it easier to locate what I need if I’m living out of a suitcase and it stops the clothes creasing too – bonus!

Another article of yours that I have enjoyed. Agree with all of the above & will finally try the dryer sheets next time I’m away. Keep seeing it but have never taken the leap (it might be a boy thing!). Cheers! – Nigel

Really smart ideas and tips especially the Bring dryer sheets to avoid “weird clothes smell” cause everything that we go on a trip my dress has unnecessary odor.

It’s, in reality, a nice and useful piece of information about packing tips.

Great tips, really helpful.

Wow! Amazing tips, really it works & helpful during travel

This is all so true! Thanks for such a wonderful article, it’s quite interesting in reading about the packing tips and hacks.!!

I truly loved reading the blog above; you have explained everything in-depth about relocation. Surely I’ll share the suggestions & guide with clients. Thank you for such a fantastic post, and please keep it up.

Great written and come with approximately all important infos

Love your tips! I have two for having more room for items I purchase. The first is that I place a carry on suitcase inside a larger suitcase for some travel. I live in Europe but travel back to the US and stock up or bring things I already own back to the UK. You need to check with your airline about how many bags you can have though. Nowadays I have to pay a lot for the extra suitcase but it can be worth it. The second is one I did more when I was younger. I would pack a certain amount of times I was willing to part with. Old underwear and socks would go in the bin for the last few days. And I would donate clothes to charity in order to fit souvenirs in.

Very informative blog, thanks for sharing with us

Hey Christina, Nice Post, Thanks for this informative article. I’m a businessman And have to travel so, Its really helpful for me.

Very nice, love it.

I think it would be hilarious if you started a trend where everyone takes your advice, and soon there will be many sloth suitcases showing up at airport baggage claims across the world. I can only hope. I am off to purchase mine right now.

Seriously though, thanks for all of these travel tips. I love the website, and your humor (sorry, I am American so I spell it differently).

I have learned a lot things from your articles, and I am excited for my first-ever trip to Oktoberfest this year. Prost!

You have shared so many awesome tips! I would not have thought about q tips in a little tub or using a straw for necklaces. Genius packing tips

Good tips! I’m definitely a “just in case” packer and need to re-think that. Ireland is one of those countries that insist on ziplock bags only for your liquids. Also, I keep one of those wrapped hotel mini soaps in my suitcase – keeps it smelling nice for a long time – even after you get home and store your bag away.

Awesome! This article is very informative and very good. Thanks for sharing this with us. Keep sharing.

This is a truly helpful and practical piece of information regarding tips for packing.

Very helpful, thanks for the share.

Very helpful, keep sharing the good stuff.

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How to Pack Luggage Efficiently: 9 Tips to Travel Lighter

Are you headed off on an adventurous backpacking trip, a cultured city break, or a relaxing poolside vacation? Wherever you’re going, you’ll need to pack various items for your trip. Arrive at your destination organized and ready to go by learning how to pack luggage efficiently: systemize your suitcase with packing cubes, plan your outfits ahead of time, or maximize space with sustainable toiletries. These top tips will help you lighten the load for the journey!

• How to pack checklist

Choosing your Wardrobe to pack

• How to Pack Luggage Efficiently
• Packing Hand Luggage
• List for packing

How to Pack Luggage

Learning how to pack luggage properly has multiple advantages. Not only will you be more organized on arrival and return, but you’ll also avoid paying overweight luggage fees and use less energy carrying heavy baggage. Whether it’s a long-term trip around the world or a short weekend break, these hacks on how to pack will help you for your vacation.

How to Pack Checklist

Before you begin packing your suitcase, ask yourself a few questions to help you decide what you need for your trip. Consider these factors:

What’s the climate like in your destination? If you’re traveling somewhere hot and humid in Asia or South America, you’ll need lightweight, quick-drying fabrics to keep you cooler. On the other hand, if you’re visiting winter destinations in Europe , you’ll need to pack extra layers like coats, gloves, and hats.

2. Religion

Is it a conservative country? In countries with a Muslim, Buddhist, or Hindu population, such as Oman , Jordan , or India , it’s a good idea to be respectful and wear modest clothes that cover your legs, arms, and shoulders. A sarong or a scarf is a great lightweight option that rolls up easily in your bag and can be thrown on when necessary.

Even in less conservative countries, pack a scarf to visit sacred sites (for example, the Vatican in Rome ).

3. Budget or Luxury?

The kind of clothing you’ll need is also dependent on the type of trip you’re going on. If you’re going on a high-end vacation, like a honeymoon in the Maldives , you may want to pack dressy clothing for eating at nice restaurants. If you’re backpacking, you’ll want to pack clothes you don’t mind getting dirty and lightweight items that can easily be hand-washed if you don’t have access to a laundry room.

How to Pack Tip: Unable to wash your things regularly? Choose lightweight, quick-dry materials you can hand-wash.

4. Trip Length

The duration of the trip is an excellent way to determine how much you’ll need. However, in general, there won’t be much difference between a 1-2 week trip and a 3-month trip. In fact, for a long trip, ‘less is more’ as you won’t want to carry too much luggage.

Become a digital nomad and travel for longer!

5. Activities

If it’s an adventure holiday that involves hiking or sports, outdoor clothing and specialty gear might be required. Culture vultures that are planning on visiting temples will require conservative clothes that can cover their heads and/or bodies. Alternatively, a coastal road trip might mean more than one swimsuit is needed.

Remember if you’re traveling in nature to always wear a non-toxic, reef-safe sunscreen (it helps protect wildlife!).

6. Transportation

When thinking about how to pack luggage, consider the mode of transportation for your trip. If you’re flying, you may have stricter weight and size rules. If you’re traveling by train or bus, you may have a greater weight allowance, but you might want to choose a smaller suitcase/backpack that fits better in overhead luggage racks. 

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A fundamental way to pack lightly and efficiently is to narrow down the clothing and accessories you’ll need for your trip. Being more organized in the weeks leading up to your departure makes learning how to pack luggage that bit easier.

1. Plan Your Outfits Ahead of Time

Before your trip, sit down and decide what outfits you’ll need each day, incorporating some items that can be mixed and matched according to your mood. For example, if you’re planning to wear linen trousers and a T-shirt to sightsee in Madrid , consider carrying a smart blouse that you can change into in the evening.

Once you’ve got your list of outfits (according to your itinerary), take a look in your wardrobe to check you have everything and lay out looks on your bed to see what works the best.

2. Choose Clothes Based on Material and Color

From the outfits you’ve chosen, you can decide which items make the cut based on material, color, and prints. When considering how to pack luggage, think about selecting:

Lightweight Materials

Materials like cotton and linen can be rolled thinly (meaning you can fit more in your bag), and are also great for layering. This is particularly helpful if you’re going to encounter various climates on your trip. For example, during summer in France , it can be very hot during the day, but temperatures in higher areas can drop at night, meaning you might need an extra layer. These materials are also more breathable and dry quicker, making handwashing easier. 

Explore the beautiful hilltop town of Gordes, France

Mix and Match Items

Creating a capsule travel wardrobe for your trip is a great idea; you just need to choose versatile items that can be worn in multiple outfits. We recommend bringing basic pieces like a white T-shirt or a multi-use jacket, so you can still create various looks but pack less. 

Packing Hack: Pack sportswear and swimwear that can also double as clothing. There are lots of smarter options out there that can be layered under a shirt for evening looks!

3. Plan Your Plane Outfit (How to Pack for Travel Tip!)

Put aside your heaviest items to wear for the flight. For example, chunky boots, thick jumpers, or warm jackets. This will reduce the weight of your luggage and save you some room in your bag for souvenirs when you return.

Tip: If traveling with hand luggage only, layer up for the plane as much as possible to leave more space in your bag for other items. You can always de-layer once you’re on the plane!

How to Pack your Luggage Efficiently 

Once you start packing your case, there are a few tips and tricks you can use to keep your luggage lighter and more organized for your journey.

1. Reduce Your Clothes by Half

Less is definitely more! Once you have your outfits planned out for your trip, consider trying to half your load. Stick with your favorite pieces that you’re most likely to wear multiple times, and eliminate any single-use items.

Remember, if you desperately need something at your destination, you can always buy it; it’s better than carrying around unnecessary heavy luggage for the duration of your trip. 

Tip: Packing lightly is also an excellent way to travel sustainably , as less weight on planes and trains means less fuel needed.

2. Distribute Weight

Next, determine how best to distribute the weight according to your luggage type. This is especially important if you’re using a backpack to avoid back injuries. In this case, pack the heaviest items in the middle so the weight is distributed as close to your back as possible.

Place the lightest items (and the ones you need the most) at the top of the bag so they are easily accessible throughout your trip.

3. Roll or Fold Your Clothes

One of the main ways to maximize space in your bag is to roll or fold your clothes. There is no evidence to suggest that either method is better, so it really depends on your personal preference. Rolling your clothes is handy for squeezing items into small spaces, whereas folding might keep clothes wrinkle-free.

How to Pack Luggage Tip: Use every inch of available space. For example, stuff socks into the inside of shoes or keep watches and jewelry inside gloves. Any breakable items should be wrapped tightly inside a jumper or stuffed inside several pairs of socks for protection.

4. Use Packing Cubes (How to Pack Top Tip!)

Packing cubes separate your items and make things much easier to find during your trip. They also help to reduce wrinkles and creases in clothing.  We purchased our packing cubes here .

How to Use Packing Cubes

• Label each cube. Start by designating a cube for each item. For example, you might have one cube for tops and one for bottoms.
• Use different sizes. Depending on the type of trip, you’ll want to use various-sized cubes. For example, a 2-week trip in Albania might require several large packing cubes, whereas a weekend trip may only require one. As you learn how to use packing cubes, you’ll decipher how much you can carry within each size.
• Buy well-designed packing cubes . Choose packing cubes with netting or a clear plastic front to easily see what’s inside.
• Pack the biggest cubes first. When deciding how to pack, place the larger cubes in your case first and the smaller ones around it (like a game of Tetris!).
• Dirty laundry cube. Include an empty packing cube for dirty laundry to keep your unwashed clothes separate from your clean ones. This way, you can empty it straight into the washing machine when you return. Consider dividing your dirty laundry into two cubes for lights and colors to save you time organizing.

Tip: Although it can be tempting to use packing cubes for everything, it’s unnecessary for bulky or non-malleable items. Rigid electrical items are better wrapped inside jumpers or stuffed between cubes to utilize space.

5. List for Packing Toiletries

Toiletries can be heavy and take up a lot of room in your bag. We purchased our toiletry bag here. When considering how to pack for travel, use this toiletry packing list to save space: 

• Foldable toiletry bag . These bags fold up small but can be opened out and hung up in the bathroom once you arrive. This way, you can easily see your organized toiletries.
• Plastic-free toiletries . Choose to go plastic-free by purchasing shampoo bars, deodorant bars, and toothpaste tablets. Most of these come in small tins and occupy almost no room in your bag. They are also liquid-free, making them an excellent option for hand luggage.

Tip: If you are carrying liquids, make sure to put them at the bottom of your luggage inside a sealable plastic bag to avoid spills. Consider strapping the lids down with a hair band if your items are already open or not sealed tightly. This is especially important when traveling by plane, as the air pressure can cause bottles to pop.

• Reusable/washable makeup pads . These fold up super small, and you will only need to take a few as you can re-wash them. They are also far better for the environment!
• Safety razor . Packing one safety razor reduces the need for a big pack of disposable razors, and it helps the environment by reducing plastic waste . Put a large clip over the top of the razor to protect it from cutting other materials in your bag.

6. Split the Essentials

If you’re traveling with other people, you can share essentials. For example, one person packs moisturizer and the other reef-safe sunscreen . You can also split bulky/heavy items like hairdryers or straighteners. 

How to Pack Tip: Traveling with a friend who shares the same size clothes? Spend a fun morning together, creating mix-and-match outfits for your trip. If you can share clothing and accessories, you can reduce the amount you need to pack!

How to Pack Hand Luggage

Depending on your baggage allowance, you may be able to take a small separate bag for the journey. Consider packing:

• A refillable water bottle . You can leave this empty as you pass through security and later refill at airport water fountains. ( Get your’s here )
• Travel pillow ( Check pillows here )
• Earplugs (also helpful if you’re backpacking and sleeping in shared dorms)
• Laptop/ Camera gear (keep these close to you when you are traveling in case of theft or breakage) 
• A toothbrush and change of clothes (stay fresh for long or overnight flights)

Hand Luggage Only

In some cases, your hand luggage might be the only bag you bring. In this case, you’ll need to be stricter with what you carry, as you’ll have space, weight, and liquid limitations.

If you’re bringing hand luggage for a week-long trip, you might want to consider bringing neutral-colored pieces you can mix and match, as well as lightweight fabrics that you can handwash easily to reuse throughout the trip.

Wear all heavier, bulkier items for the journey to save space.

List for Packing

When thinking about how to pack luggage, first consider the type of trip, vacation length, and climate. Although your packing list may change slightly according to these answers, there are a few essentials that every traveler should bring.

Clothing and Footwear

• T-shirts + Jumpers
• Shorts + Trousers
• Waterproof jacket
• Underwear 
• 2 x shoes (1 for walking/1 nicer pair)  

Tip: Buy a pair of flip-flops at your destination. These are great for the beach and to wear in hostel communal showers.

• Scarf/Sarong
• Handbag ( this bag is what we use )

Toiletries and Electricals

• Deodorant and shampoo bars
• Moisturizer
• Reef-safe sunscreen
• Micro-fiber towel
• Dirty laundry bag or packing cube

Tip : Bring a small waterproof bag that you can easily squeeze in your backpack. This is perfect for carrying wet clothes in case you get caught in sudden monsoon rains or your clothes haven’t dried in time for your journey.

• Phone charger
• Universal adaptor
• Wifi dongle (especially if you’re working remotely )
• Power bank (perfect if you run out of battery on the move). Get one here .

Don’t forget to bring camera gear to get amazing photos of your trip! Action cameras like the GoPro are waterproof, small, and lightweight — perfect for packing efficiently. See what’s in our camera bag .

Travel Accessories (For Safety + Comfort)

• Padlock . Locking your suitcase or backpack can give you peace of mind when traveling, especially if you leave your baggage in the hold of the bus or airplane.
• Money belt. This can wrap up really small in your case and is great to wear under your clothes when carrying cash or valuables.
• Small first aid kit . Pack any medications you may need, as well as band-aids and insect bite cream.
• Waterproof backpack cover . Especially in tropical destinations, heavy downpours are likely. A cover will protect the rain from getting through to your clothes.

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How to Pack the Perfect Suitcase in 6 Easy Steps

You might think you know how to pack a suitcase, but do you really? If you’re used to just throwing in your stuff, maybe with some basic folding, and then zippering it shut and heading off, you could use some pointers. Here, six steps to packing the perfect bag.

Style + Travel Editor | Instagram @jackiehoman | jackiehoman.com

See recent posts by Jackie Homan

1. Pick your bag

First thing’s first: choose your bag. Think realistically about the length of your trip, the types of clothing and other items you’ll need to bring, and go with the smallest bag you can get by with—you don’t want to lug around a half-empty suitcase, or worse, pack a bunch of stuff you don’t need just because there’s room. After you’ve nailed down the size you want, consider extra options: do you want the expandable option of a soft bag, or would you rather your fragile items be protected by a hard shell? How about a front pocket for a tablet or book? Do you want 360-degree spinner wheels? (Okay, spoiler alert, you definitely want spinner wheels.) Figure out the qualities most important to you, and then get shopping.

2. Pack shoes first

Since shoes are typically the heaviest and bulkiest items in your bag, arrange them at the bottom of the suitcase—otherwise, it’ll likely tip over on you every time you let go. Rather than putting them in direct contact with your clothes (yuck), place them in shoe pouches to keep everything clean. Pro tip: if you’re in a pinch, you can also use recycled plastic grocery bags or a hotel shower cap around the soles. Bringing sneakers? Throw in some shoe deodorizer bags, too—the last thing you want is to discover your whole bag smells when you get to your destination.

RELATED: The Best Walking Shoes for Women

3. Roll clothes and condense thicker items into compression packing cubes

For lightweight items like t-shirts and shorts, use the rolling method—that is, smooth out wrinkles, fold in sleeves and other parts that stick out, and then tightly roll in a uniform shape until the item is compact. For bulkier items, like sweaters, consider investing in compression packing cubes. Using a double zipper method, they squeeze out extra air to create a thinner rectangle for packing.

4. Consolidate toiletries

In checked luggage, group all of your toiletries into a hanging bag. Not only do hanging bags fold up for compactness, they are also easy to use once you get to your destination. For a carry-on, you’ll likely want two bags: one for non-liquid toiletries and one quart-sized, TSA-approved bag to fit all your minis. (Just remember, you can only bring containers of 3.4 ounces or smaller on board).

RELATED: 18 Essentials You Should NEVER Forget to Pack

5. Find hidden spaces for assorted items

Now that all your shoes, clothes, and toiletries are stowed away, it’s time to squeeze in smaller items that’ll fit in the cracks and crevices between bulkier items. You can roll socks and underwear into these areas, pad fragile accessories like sunglasses in between soft layers of clothes, and fit any odd-shaped gear on top. To keep everything organized, use small bags and pouches for trinkets that could get lost in the shuffle.

6. Put on the finishing touches

Once everything’s zipped up, it’s time for the final details. Be sure to fill out a luggage tag with your contact information and place it securely on a bag handle in case it goes missing—to that end, you might also want to buy a luggage tracker device, like the Tile Mate, which will help you locate a lost bag. If you’re worried your suitcase looks like everyone else’s, use a distinctive luggage tag that’s easy to recognize, or tie a colorful ribbon on top. You can also purchase a TSA-approved luggage lock to secure your belongings for extra safety. Finally, after the bag’s all ready to go, take out a trusty digital luggage scale and weigh that baby—checked luggage usually has to be under 50 pounds, though it can depend on the airline. Bon voyage!

What to wear on your flight:

Women’s comfy style for an airline upgrade, shop the look.

Matya Swing Sweatshirt

High-Rise Leggings

Canvas Tote

White Sneakers

Men’s comfy outfit for a las vegas road trip.

"Feel the Heat" Tee

Relaxed Knit Shorts

Brow Bar Sunglasses

Charging Backpack

Women’s Walking Outfit

Oversize Denim Jacket

Poppy High Waisted Pants

Octagon Sunglasses

Boyfriend Tee

• 12 Packing Hacks You’ll Live By
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How to Pack: Tips from the Experts on Maximizing Space

By Rachel Chang

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

As I dusted off my suitcase for my first trip during the pandemic last month, a familiar dread came over me. Despite my track record of packing for two-week vacations in a carry-on suitcase , the process always takes me days of agonizing over every. single. item . Still, as soon as I get out the door, inevitably there’s that one item I wish I had packed that I end up thinking about the rest of the trip.

Before I sunk back into old habits, I reached out to organization experts and flight attendants—the ultimate frequent travelers—to learn the tricks of the trade. Below, 10 of their best packing tips.

1. Use the right suitcase for the occasion

Often, our instincts are to choose luggage based on the length of the trip. While it’s a definite factor, what matters more is the kind of trip. “A compact or medium-sized suitcase is ideal for a city break or beach holiday because you can easily pack a lot of light garments, which you'll need for daily outfit changes when the weather is hot and you've been walking all day,” says Etihad Airways flight attendant Adina Elena Beldie. Hard-sides like Away’s The Bigger Carry-On and Monos’ Hybrid Carry-On , as well as soft-sides like Samsonite’s NuRoad Carry-On Spinner fit the bill.

“On the contrary, an outdoor adventure trip would require a larger suitcase for all of your hiking gear, like thick clothes and bulky footwear,” Beldie adds. Top choices in the category include the REI Co-Op Big Haul Recycled Rolling Duffel or Osprey’s Shuttle Wheeled 130L bag . “Lastly, in my experience, a business trip usually means packing light, although this can vary depending on the duration of the trip,” she says. No matter the size, Travelpro’s Platinum Elite Hardside Luggage fits the chicness and practicality factors with its Compact Carry-On or Medium Check-In .

2. Take the weight off of you

There’s no need for you (or your back) to bear the burden. “If you’re flying to your destination, spinners are a must-have,” travel packing expert Anne McAlpin of Pack It Up says. It’s not just about the luggage itself—it also serves as a way for your carry-on tote to slip over the handle. “The weight of the bag is carried by the spinner, not your shoulders, making traveling through long airport terminals a breeze,” she says.

Though many totes can slip right over the handles of carry-on luggage or a checked bag, sets complete the look, like Delsey’s Chatelet Hard+ two-piece set or Kenneth Cole Reaction’s Chevron Spinner with a Tote .

3. Make a list and check it twice

As with so many essential life tasks, writing out what you need is never a bad idea. “Create a packing list that includes all of your essentials, and then separate ones that are customized to your [trip's] relevant needs,” say the women of The Home Edit , Clea Shearer and Joanna Teplin. One of the biggest mistakes people make, they say, is “just throwing things in a suitcase without a system in mind.”

A list can help you take note of if you’re over or underpacking, Beldie says, adding that, “Proper packing requires time.”

“I recommend adding items to your suitcase about a week in advance—not earlier than that as it’s important to check weather conditions at the destination, which will be more accurate closer to the trip,” she says.

If a handwritten list isn’t your speed, let your items be your visual list. “Lay everything out and start editing,” McAlpin says. “Hang outfits together, so you don’t forget anything.” She says to start two weeks ahead of time and to try everything on. “Part of the stress of packing is deciding what to take and what fits,” she says.

4. Find your own formula 

McAlpin says she’s been recommending her packing ratio—three to one, with three tops for every bottom—for more than 25 years. Most trips work with nine tops and three bottoms, especially when they’re in basic colors that mix and match. She also says not to exceed three pairs of shoes: running or exercise shoes, walking shoes, and a pair of sandals or flip-flops.

On the other hand, Beldie is about the twos. For each day of the trip, she says to think of two tops, two shorts, two T-shirts, two pants, and two undergarments . “For a business trip, packing two shirts per day is a good idea—one for meetings during the day, the other for dinner and night events,” she says.

For organizing guru Marie Kondo , it’s less about numbers and more about categories. “I recommend that you lay everything out first and categorize by type of item to give you a comprehensive look at how many items you have for each category,” she says. “Then fold everything into its smallest possible size. At that point, before you start filling the suitcase, pare down and be honest with yourself about what you really need for the trip.”

The most important aspect of the equation is simplicity: “What do you really need to have a joy-sparking trip? If your trip is for leisure, this is the opportunity to free yourself from everyday decision making and perhaps experience a simpler lifestyle. The fewer clothing options to choose from, the more you can focus on the joyful experience ahead,” she says. But there is one number she says to follow, “Leave 10 or 20 percent empty space so you can buy souvenirs and pack them for your return trip!”

Experts recommend laying everything out before packing your bag.

5. Consider clothing material and colors 

Eva Air senior assistant purser Jennifer Liao says to select the most packable clothing so you’re not constantly thinking about ironing. “Most flight attendants travel with clothes made from wrinkle-free fabrics such as synthetics, wool, denim, and knit—we don’t pack linen because it wrinkles so easily,” she says. Hues can also make a big difference. “The colors we pack are important. The darker the color, the fewer visible wrinkles,” Liao adds.

Laura Walsh

Alex Erdekian

Charlie Hobbs

Tifsit Teferra, a Delta Air Lines flight attendant, says to focus on a wide range of choices, too. She avoids packing too many of the same thing: “Why take up space with six tees when you can bring a variety of tops—variety is the spice of packing!”

6. Less is more

McAlpin’s packing motto is: “Less stuff, less stress.” She once traveled 21 days in a 21-inch carry-on that was less than 21 pounds—covering diverse climates from India and Jordan to New York City. That pack light mentality is echoed across the board.

“People tend to, quite literally, weigh themselves down when traveling,” Kondo says. “Remind yourself that traveling is temporary and should be about the actual trip itself rather than extensive wardrobe selections. Packing just a few outfits that you absolutely love will make getting ready each day a breeze. Select clothes that are comfortable, do not wrinkle easily , and that make you feel good about yourself.”

“Not all items will apply to all people, and not all items will apply to all trips,” Shearer and Teplin say. “So if you absolutely, without a doubt, cannot live without an item, then by all means, bring it! Just remember: You get the item or you get the space, but you don't get both.”

7. Organize your clothes vertically and tightly

Though some packers prefer laying clothes flat, the experts we talked to agree that rolling is key to save space. “Clothes should be folded into their smallest possible size,” Kondo says. “Thin fabrics are best to roll to prevent wrinkles. Another tidy trick is to tuck your folded underwear into bra cups within your suitcase—it keeps the undergarment category together and saves space.”

Think of your suitcase as a table of contents of sorts—you want to be able take one look and know everything inside. “The key here is to pack your items vertically so you can see them all at one glance,” Kondo says. “That way, you don’t have to take out everything to find the one item you are looking for.”

8. Categorize your contents

Take that idea one step further with packing cubes. “They will help use vertical space and adhere to a tidy routine while on the road,” Kondo says. KonMari partnered with Paravel on the Packing Cube Quad, a set of four that makes categorizing easy on the go. Kondo suggests using the smallest one for underwear, the largest for bulky items like outerwear and towels, one of the middle ones for clean clothes, and the other for dirty ones. “What’s great about the packing cubes is that you can place your vertically folded clothes into the cube from your drawer at home, then transfer them straight into the drawers at the hotel, so it’s easy to unpack at the destination,” she says.

The Home Edit team put a different spin on them in the form of pouches. “Packing squares are the real game-changer,” they say of their Zipper Pouch Set . “They are so versatile, which is key when you're needing to pack different items for every trip. The trick is finding packing squares that fit what you regularly pack. We designed our own set with Calpak because we wanted a version that was large enough for storing shoes as well!”

If you want to give your items an extra squeeze, McAlpin suggests Baggallini’s long compression packing cubes , which fit right into that awkward space between the handles of most luggage to maximize space.

Tech cords and chargers might need a slightly different method to remain neat. Kondo’s shop sells a Bellroy Tidy Tech Kit , while Teferra goes more homemade: “I fold cords and then use Velcro tape to secure them.”

9. Wear your bulkiest clothing

Though we’ve heard those infamous stories of people layering on clothes to save on baggage fees, there is a time and place for wearing some of your essential needs on your back. “If you are going to a cold weather location, I suggest wearing your bulkier items like a coat and boots, and always carry your water bottle,” Teferra says. If you do need to put them in your suitcase, Teferra says, “Bulky items should always go at the bottom of your suitcase, and it’s best to layer them flat—never fold or roll them.”

10. Keep travel essentials packed

“We always say, if you stay ready, you won't have to get ready,” The Home Edit women say. Especially for frequent travelers, instead of constantly packing and unpacking, keep the items that you always take with you packed. “It helps to organize your travel toiletries and accessories ahead of time so your packing routine is essentially grab-and-go,” they add.

Liao agrees, admitting that the Eva Air team travels so much that “some of us keep essential items that we never unpack in our luggage.” The advantage can shave tremendous time on packing for your next trip. “All we need to do before each flight is pack clothes.”

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Foolproof Hacks for Packing Your Suitcase Efficiently Every Time

Experts reveal their trusted, time-honored packing techniques.

Theresa O'Rourke has nearly 20 years of experience in journalism. Her work has been featured in Allure, Women's Health, Real Simple, and other publications. Theresa's experience includes the roles of writer, editor, consultant, and editorial director. Highlights: * Nearly 20 years of journalism experience * Former executive editor at Every Day with Rachael Ray * Former editorial director at Victoria's Secret * Former executive editor at Women's Health * Former vice president at Remedy Health Media * Editor-in-chief at Weight Watchers

The Best Ways to Pack Your Clothes

How to pack shoes, how to pack toiletries and beauty products, how to pack jewelry, stow inexpensive pieces in a seven-day plastic pillbox, how to pack fragile objects or breakables, how to pack dirty laundry.

Even with the best luggage , why does packing always seem like more of a chore than it needs to be? It can be a tedious task on its own, sure, but a lot of packing stress likely stems from the anxiety of not really knowing what you're going to need when you get to wherever you're going. (What if it rains the whole time? What if your luggage gets lost? What if you don't end up doing half of what your itinerary originally said you'd be doing?) We put a lot of pressure on ourselves to somehow, miraculously, pack only exactly what we might need—no more, no less—and keep things wrinkle-free in the process. Here are some helpful packing techniques to ease the burden of filling your suitcase or travel bag efficiently and keeping your clothing in tip-top shape while en route.

Think Big, Then Edit

Gather all the garments you anticipate needing—then put half of them back. For a five-day trip, you'll likely need five shirts, two pairs of slacks or jeans, and one skirt, says Kathleen Ameche, author of The Woman Road Warrior ($12, amazon.com ). If going to cooler climates, save your bulkier outwear, like a puffer coat , to travel in. The standard regulation carry-on luggage fits roughly two pairs of jeans, three sweaters, two dresses, and five shirts.

Pack With a Palette

If you have a color you like to wear like navy blue, black, or pink (you do you!) stick with it. Pick a color range and pack tops, and bottoms that all fit within it. It'll give you more options for mixing and matching, which means more outfits!

Pack Wrinkle-Resistant Fabrics

If you can, choose knits, wools, and cottons because these fabrics tend to resist wrinkles and be versatile (some garments can do double duty, like yoga pants that moonlight as pajamas).

Roll and Fold Items

Using a bit of each packing technique is the most efficient way to get things into your suitcase. Roll softer garments and fold stiffer ones. Underwear, T-shirts, jeans, cotton pants, and knitwear won't wrinkle when rolled tightly, says Judy Gilford, author of The Packing Book ($10, amazon.com ). Stiffer fabrics, such as starched cotton shirts, blazers, dressy pants, and skirts, should be carefully folded.

Arrange Clothing Thoughtfully

Place your softer, rolled items at the bottom of your suitcase first. Next comes your folded garments: For your middle layer, start with the longest items, like skirts and nice pants. Stack the garments on top of each other, alternating waists with hems. Lay them the length of your suitcase, draping leftover fabric over the opposite end. (This conserves space since thick waistbands won't be piled on top of one another.) Wrap the draping ends of the pile into the center. Next, lay collars of shorter items, like shirts, at the hinge with the ends over the handles. Fold the collars and ends over once and fold the arms in. Finally, snake belts around the perimeter of the bag so they take up as little room as possible (and add another layer of snugness around these three layers).

Cover the Pile With a Dry-Cleaning Bag

Because of the dry-cleaning bag's slippery surface, folded clothes don't stay in one place long enough for creases to set. Easy upgrade: Place a bag between each layer of clothing. To get to a certain layer easily, simply pull the ends of the bag up on either side.

Place Clothes You'll Need First at the Top

This could be anything from a dress to a bathing suit to pajamas, depending on where you're going, what time you arrive, and what the plan is when you get there.

Follow the Rule of Three

Consider one casual sandal or loafer, sneakers, and an evening shoe to be your holy trinity. "Because of their shapes and heels, shoes take up the most room," says Marybeth Bond, author of 50 Best Girlfriends Getaways ($16, amazon.com ). Wear the heaviest, bulkiest pair and pack the other two.

Have Your Shoes Do Some Work

Depending on how clean your shoes are, stuff them with other items like socks, sunglasses, and electronics chargers, says Anita Dunham-Potter, a cruise columnist for MSNBC.com. This will end up saving you a bit of room here and there.

Place Shoes Into One-Gallon-Size Resealable Bags

Then set them along the sides of the bag, says Gilford. This will keep dirt and germs from your shoes from getting onto your packed clean clothes.

Invest in Shoe Cubes

If you've already gotten on the packing cube train, kick it up a notch (literally) with shoe cubes . These flexible water-resistant packs have a collapsible divider, so you can safely stash your heels and sneakers (no scuffing!).

Opt for Travel-Size Multitasksers

Choose a tinted moisturizer that serves as foundation, a soap, and shampoo in one, and wipes that clean hands and face. (If you're flying with a carry-on bag , check current regulations for liquids at tsa.gov .)

Group Similar Products in Sealed Resealable Bags

Designate one bag for cosmetics , one for hair products, and one for skin-related items. Tuck the bags in the side corners of your suitcase or in a zippered outside pocket.

Or store them in a 35-millimeter film container lined with tissue. If you must take precious gems, wear them during your travels to reduce the risk of loss or theft, suggests Gilford.

Use Clothing as Padding

Wrap fragile items in thick, sturdy clothing. Place them in the center of your bag surrounded by a buffer, says Laura McHolm, co-founder of NorthStar Moving, a Los Angeles–based company that relocates 5,000 people (and their precious porcelain) each year. If you're carting liquor bottles, secure them in the bottom center of your bag. If you have beach towels , this would be a good place to use them.

Jessica Ellis, a graphic designer who travels between New York City and Chicago every other week, piles clothing into Eagle Creek packing bags and cubes . "Zipper them, and they take out 80 percent of the volume." Warning: This can have wrinkly consequences, so if the clothes don't yet require laundering, lay them flat and place fabric-softener sheets between them. Consider your fresh-smelling clothes a welcome-home present.

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How To Pack Your Luggage? Complete Packing Guide

11 August 2021

Clothes do not fit in a suitcase? Have you ever forgotten something? Previously folded clothes are creased after arrival? For many people, packing a suitcase or a backpack is one of the less pleasant elements of travel. Fortunately, there are many handy techniques that can improve the packaging process. In this article you will learn the best tips and tricks that will help you save time and space in your suitcase.

The tips you’ll learn here are so universal that you can easily apply them to all your travels. You will learn what to put on the bottom, what should be easily accessible on top, and how to ensure the stability of the suitcase and relieve your back.

Why are packing techniques worth learning? 

• Lighter luggage - if we travel by plane, it may often turn out that our suitcase is already full, but the suitcase is very light - and we could easily add 3 or 5 kilograms. In addition, it may turn out that you can easily pack into a smaller suitcase or backpack
• Everything at hand - better-packed luggage means that the most needed items are always at hand - we don’t have to dig through clothes and towels to reach the phone charger or sunscreen
• Stress-free packaging - you will avoid a situation in which you have to change your plans at the last minute and give up the items you planned to pack

Proper packing order

Before you start packing, keep in mind the following rules:

• Prepare all your things before you start packing
• Avoid making pauses during packing, just get it over with!

Here you can read a complete guide which includes all the necessary steps in the right order. You can choose any step here to immediately proceed there.

• Casual items
• Carry-on bag

Choosing the proper packing technique

We start by collecting all the clothes. Depending on the duration of the trip, on how big is your luggage and on what means of transport you have chosen - pick the right packing technique. You will save some space and avoid creasing clothes.

See the full guide with step by step tutorial and video explanation of each packing technique

Definitely the most popular technique. It works similar to the way how we fold our clothes into the closet right after washing them. It is common but not necessarily useful if we want to save space.This way, our baggage consists of clothes folded into small and bigger squares stacked on each other. See the full guide with video explanation

Best technique if we want to save some space. It is tight rolling your clothes and putting them in the suitcase in a form of rolls.

If you are to take a lot of clothes that are easy to create, then this method is for you. It is stacking all the clothes on each other and then wrapping them, one by one.

Folded back-to-front

It is similar to folding, basically, you put your folded clothes vertically, not horizontally.

Packing order

Step 1: Heavy items, like boots or shoes, should be put at the bottom of your suitcase. They will make a solid base for other things in your baggage, as well as they will balance it properly. Good thing is to wear the biggest or the heaviest clothes on you and the rest to pack in your luggage. Additionally, take an extra plastic bag for your shoes so the footing would not dirty the whole baggage.

Step 2: Put them inside the shoes - this way you will avoid possible footwear deformation during the travel and you will also save some space in your suitcase. You can also put there other small things you won’t need during the trip.

Step 3: While packing sweaters, which are mostly heavier parts of clothes, pack them right after the shoes, making the first layer of clothes.

Step 4: It is better to pack your underwear in a small bag and then put them into gaps between shoes and sweaters. You will save plenty of space and you will prevent shoes from moving during transport.

Step 5: We recommend packing a t-shirt for each day and the right amount of trousers, so you can change them every two-three days.

Step 6: All the remaining clothes such as dresses or shirts fold into cubes and place them on the rolled t-shirts and trousers.

Packing everyday items

Packing cosmetics can be problematic - I think each of us had to throw away too large a bottle of shampoo at the airport, forgetting the 100 ml limit, or opened luggage in which shower gel was spilled. Fortunately, the packing of everyday items can be smoother and more stress-free. 

• Buy small packages - a great solution for frequently used cosmetics, such as conditioner, shower gel or shampoo. Thanks to this we will save a lot of space in the luggage. 
• Use one-time purchase packages - a good, more profitable version of the previous advice is a one-time purchase of small glass packaging for cosmetics, which we will fill with the products we already have at home. 
• Try multifunctional products - if you find a 2-in-1 or 3-in-1 product that you like then this is another way to save space in your suitcase! Note - cosmetics such as shampoo + conditioner can often weigh your hair down and it is usually better to take these cosmetics separately. 
• Share - you can arrange with your travel companions option to share frequently used products such as soap and hand cream. Thanks to this, instead of five packages - you will pack one. 
• Think in categories - it is a good idea to buy sachets in which we’ll pack the cosmetics by their category. 
• Divide cosmetics into cosmetic bags - in one, these products that we must have at hand, and in the other, these that we will use during holidays.

This is one of the most space-consuming items. 

• Rolling is believed to be the best way to pack your towels
• Towels can provide great cushioning for smaller and delicate items
• A special travel towel can be a good purchase - it is lighter, thinner and quick-drying
• You can wrap something damp in a towel if you urgently need to pack it before departure

Fragile items

• It's a good idea to wrap delicate items in towels or t-shirts
• If you are looking for a more professional solution - consider purchasing an aviation foam that protects the glass from damage, or a bubble wrap

There are many everyday items that we want to take on a trip - especially the longer one. These include, but are not limited, to brushes, hairbrushes, clothes roller, razors and more. 

• You can protect the razor blade with a glue gun - you just take the protective layer off the razor before use
• Instead of shaving gel, you can apply a hair conditioner to the calves or thighs - it will also soften the hair and protect the skin

Packing the carry-on bag

Carry-on bag must be packed in a particularly thoughtful way so that it will be handy and comfortable at the same time, and also - provides good access to all necessary items.

Clothes for a carry-on bag 

• Emergency clothes - for a carry-on bag, pack one set of clothes for the whole day, in case you spend the night at the airport or spill coffee on your clothes. 
• Warm cover - let's also pack a sweatshirt and a raincoat - something warm in case of cool weather or staying outside after dark.

Cosmetics for a carry-on bag

Think about what will be useful for us when traveling and pack only the absolute minimum, but let's not forget about a few important details. 

• Antibacterial gel - in case we won’t be able to wash our hands comfortably.
• Hand cream - air-conditioned areas of airports or hours on the bus can be a big challenge for our skin and make it very dry. 
• Face mist - a great way to feel fresh even after hours on the road.
• Lip balm - a long journey, dehydration or conditioned air - all of this dries your lips. 
• Wipes - a must-have for a travel bag!  
• A lens box and lens solution - if you wear them, of course. There is nothing worse than not being able to safely remove your lenses after many hours! 

Electronics

One of the most delicate elements of our carry-on luggage. 

• Consider whether you really need to take all the planned electronics with you. If your phone takes pictures as good as a camera, and you will only use your laptop to watch movies that you could watch on a tablet anyway - this way you can minimize the volume of your luggage. 
• Flat power banks are more convenient and handy than wide and shapeless ones. 
• Take universal cables and charger adapters with you, especially useful might be the USB splitter, which will allow you to charge multiple devices at one time.

Accessories

• When packing chargers, cables or headphones - you can fasten them with an elastic band so that they do not get tangled
• Make the most of the potential of pockets and loops in your carry-on luggage to sort small items
• Do you want to be sure that you won’t forget about all the necessary accessories and gadgets? Check out this checklist !
• One of the most important pieces of luggage! The key is to secure them properly - for example, keeping them in a waterproof, plastic pocket. It is equally important to protect these items against theft. Keep them close to the body, in an accessible place for you
• Keep your documents in one place, but in your main baggage pack a spare passport photo, photos of tickets, documents or hotel booking confirmation

Other ways to improve your stay

We have prepared a comprehensive list of articles which will help you during your trip:

• Lower the costs of your trip - we’ve prepared 16 ways to both prevent you from spending too much money and allow you to enjoy your stay. See how to do this in this article .
• Use travelling gadgets - there are plenty of useful accessories which may ease and improve your packing process. You can find this article here.
• Remember about safety - despite your plans for vacations, check this article to prevent yourself from getting robbed. 
• See how to travel during the pandemics - 9 verified methods on how to protect yourself from coronavirus while travelling. Check what can you do and what you should avoid.

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60 Travel Packing Tips from the Experts

Packing , Packing Tips

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I am excited to share these travel packing tips with you! This is the collaborative effort of over 50 of the best travel bloggers in the business! From travel wardrobe basics to practical tools and ideas, these expert packing tips reveal a treasure trove of information sure to make your trip planning easier. Pack light and pack smart!

60 Travel Packing Tips

Sleep Mask by Bedtime Bliss

Packing Tips for Comfort on Flights

If you travel regularly, keep the basics in your backpack . It saves a lot of time! Don’t forget earplugs, a light scarf, medicines, a sleeping mask, and little scissors! A World to Travel

Bring lip balm, ear plugs, a notepad, and panty liners for long flights . The liners help prevent yeast infections and doubles the life of your underwear.  Green Global Travel

My friend From Zurich shares her top packing tips: Bring a scarf because they are so multifunctional! You can use it if it’s cold, if you need to cover up, to sit on, and more. On plane trips, I must have: a small toiletry bag with eye drops, moisturizer, sanitizer, aspirin, and ear plugs. The ear plugs can block out loud snorers in dorms.

If you’re facing an upcoming trip with an extremely long travel time, our readers share their best tips on how to survive long flights !

Packing Cubes

Packing Tips for Travel Organizers & Travel Bags

Use colored packing cubes  to organize your clothes. That way, you can pull out the “shirts” bag quickly without searching and dumping out an entire backpack. Around the World in 80 Jobs

Don’t bother with those fancy, expensive travel towels . Instead, get a sarong. It’s cheap and multi-use: use it as a wrap, lay it out for picnics or sunbathing, or dry off with it. They’re super light and dry quickly, even in humid places. For packing, invest in packing cubes ! They make packing and living out of a suitcase/backpack more organized and much easier. It’s one of my best packing tips.  1 Dad 1 Kid

Bring a range of see-through plastic bags with you. They are useful for keeping dirty or wet clothes separate from clean clothes, replacing lost cosmetics bags, storing souvenirs, keeping dirty shoes contained, and just generally keeping your backpack organized without needing to empty it every time you want to find something. Plastic bags are very useful if you like to compartmentalize, like I do. Vicky Flip Flop Travels

Always pack a few plastic baggies in different sizes. They are great for swiping food for lunch from the buffet breakfast or for saving the seashells your child collected. As a bonus, bring a small, collapsible cooler with a baggie filled with ice from the hotel to keep your lunch cold or to refrigerate something you pick up from the store for later. There and Back Again Travel

Always carry a huge garbage bag (clean, of course!) in your backpack’s top pocket. You never know when you’ll need to protect your backpack from a downpour or from wandering hands in your hostel.  Solitary Wanderer

My best advice when it comes to packing: ziplocs! I keep everything in ziploc bags–from toothpaste to shampoo to sunblock–to prevent them from damaging my clothes or electronics. It’s a cheap and easy solution to make sure your face cream doesn’t stain your favorite jeans! Beatrice BP

I put together a  five-part YouTube series  showing you the different methods to use packing cubes . If you use  this  specific packing strategy, they can also compress your belongings and travel capsule wardrobe . This is the secret to traveling carryon only!

Compression Sack

I pack my daily supplements and vitamins in small ziploc bags to reduce bottle bulk. Geogypsy Traveler

It’s one of the often-repeated packing tips but seriously– a bunch of bags to separate out your clothes will prove invaluable. Compression sacks, packing cubes , or just stuff sacks–use them to keep things organized and smush clothes into a smaller bundle. Just make sure they’re not plastic! Chasing the Wild

Make sure all your liquid items are in bags or separated from the rest of your things. That way, if one of the bottles gets damaged, it won’t get all over your entire wardrobe! The Kay Days

Instead of plastic bags, use cloth hotel laundry bags for storage. They are reusable, washable, and don’t make that annoying rustling sound if you find yourself in a hostel in the middle of the night searching for something. Man on the Lam

Use compression bags to pack your clothes . Not only do they save space in your bag, but they also double as waterproofing for valuables when you’re out exploring.  Flip Flops Abroad

Space bags are great, but don’t forget you’ll need to go through that process every  time you open your bag. Is it worth it? It’s One World Travel

Here’s the  best packing organizers  for travel!

Delsey Helium Aero Carry On Luggage

Travel Packing Tips and Tricks

Roll stuff, don’t fold it; it seems to take up less space, in my experience. Also, leave at least half of what you were going to take behind; you’re not going to need it. You won’t believe me and you’ll take it anyway, because everyone does, at least the first few times. Finding the Universe

I always roll my clothes because it takes up less space and makes them less wrinkly. I also bring an extra pair of contact lenses, no matter how short the trip. I pack my glasses and a pair of underwear in my carryon in case of delayed luggage. Monkeys and Mountains

Pack elastic bracelets as they can double as hairbands and can be used to hold small items together. Also, I’ve never regretted taking packs of mini tissues. Southwest Compass

I like to bring a few sheets of tissue paper along. I use it to roll up anything that is likely to get wrinkled. Works great. Bond Girl Photos

Use a suitcase where you can strap your clothes down tightly. It works like an iron.  Boomeresque

Read these tips on packing cubes vs packing folders and find out what’s the best for you!

Shop Sizes XS-4X:  J.Jill

Packing Tips for Fashionistas

Packing light provides you and your trip flexibility . Therefore, I pack mostly black or blue jeans and clothes and provide color with scarves and accessories. I am also a confirmed “roller”. Family Travel

Bring the jeans, leave the heels. Make sure you bring the right bras. When you’re stacked, it can be a real challenge to make sure the girls are locked and lovely. My fave combo is one everyday bra, one sexy bra, and one sports bra. A bunch of packing tips in one shot!  It’s One World Travel

If you love your jeans, just pack them. No matter what else someone tells you—they take too long to dry, they smell bad wet, they are heavy—yes, they are all of those things…but they are also something you’ll likely wear every day on the road, just like at home. Oh, and use  packing cubes ! A Little Adrift

Our readers voted for the best black travel pants and these were their favorite styles!

Ruched Body-Con Tank Dress

Think twice about the hiking boots. Not only are they bulky and heavy, but I find that even when I’ve packed them in the past, I’ve felt more comfortable wearing a pair of Toms or Chucks. Unless you’re thinking about some serious hiking, you can get away with a much lighter (and more fashionable) shoe like this one .  That Backpacker

Bring a black or brown dress and tops with you. I call it the “safe” colors. You can wear them anytime, anywhere. Bringing one stiletto or high-heeled shoe helps, especially if you need to attend a formal event. In terms of packing, bring cotton tops and if you’re going to a tropical country, avoid bulky clothes. Senyorita

Be conservative with shoes. Even shoes that you normally consider comfortable may pinch your feet or give you blisters. Go for the most comfortable yet neutral shoes you can find, and make sure they’re broken in. Bring cuter shoes for short outings or evenings. This is My Happiness

Wherever you are going and in whatever climate, always, always have a posh frock and heels in case you need to dress up.  Escape Artistes

.Here’s the most comfortable and cute walking shoes for travel!

Plaid Blanket

No matter the climate I’m going to, I always travel with at least one scarf . It takes up virtually no room, and yet can have so many uses. A scarf can dress up a boring travel outfit, give you a bit of warmth in chilly locales, help you cover up in conservative destinations, and can even serve as a pillow or sarong in a pinch.  Dangerous Business

One of my top packing tips is to resist last minute urges to pack extras (like extra t-shirts). Allow 30 minutes extra time before you leave for the airport to edit what you’ve put in your bag. Aim to take at least three items out.  30 Traveler

I pack lots of scarves. They use practically zero room in a suitcase and are so versatile. They allow me to create multiple outfits from the same top and bottom by providing different colors and textures, and they also can serve as protection against the cold or sun. I have used a scarf as a picnic blanket and as something soft (or protective) to sit on. Also, I pick up scarves wherever I go so it turns into a travel moment, too! Misadventures with Andi

A little black dress, cute flats, and a shawl go a long way.  Nomadic Chick

Here are eight different ways to wear a scarf when you travel!

The Chrysalis Cardi

Lay out all the clothes you intend to take …then put half of them away! I’ve never regretted not taking any piece of clothing on a trip but I have regretted packing too much. Take double the amount of underwear that you think you’ll need. A girl can never have too many pairs of clean knickers.  Flashpacker Family

When in Asia, always travel with a scarf. It’s perfect for places that use a bit too much air conditioning (you can throw it over your shoulders) or wear it as a skirt if your clothing isn’t appropriate for temples. A scarf always makes clothing look a bit more put together. Asia Travel Tales

Bring versatile clothing that you can reuse in several outfits. I especially love wrap dresses that you can change from one-shouldered to halter to strapless and more!  Christine in Spain

Want to look good while you travel? Bring the same clothes and styles you love at home  as long as they’re reasonable and don’t take much space. I always travel with a skinny tie and skinny jeans (hipster essentials) because you never know when you’ll want to look good—even when abroad.  Travels of Adam

Find out exactly why these two piece sets are the perfect addition to any travel wardrobe!

Apple iPad Mini 4

Packing Tips for Families

One tip that’s probably been mentioned a lot, but I live by, is this: lots of layering options for the kids reduces the need to pack lots of warm clothes. By layering, it’s easy to modify their level of warmth. Having multiple short sleeve and long sleeve t-shirts are more space-friendly than carrying extra jackets, for example. Little Aussie Travellers

Your kids, especially toddlers, will ALWAYS need less than you think they will, especially when it comes to toys. An iPad or tablet plus a very small bag of favorite toys can get you to your destination, while the actual place you are visiting is often entertainment enough. With so many new sights and sounds to explore, you’ll find your toddler ditching that bag of cars you packed in exchange for every stick, rock, and leaf along the way. Walking on Travels

We are a family of four. When we pack, we roll everything (except jeans and thick pants); it does give you more space. The Q Family Adventures

Flying with a baby ? Don’t stress! We have some awesome tips from a jetsetting mom.

Trunki Original Kids Ride-On Suitcase and Carry-On Luggage

Traveling as a family of four, we use vacuum-sealed, airtight, and waterproof space bags for each individual. They compress clothes by squeezing the air out, they protect fabric from spills, and they are an easy way to separate everyone’s belongings. They’re also great for bulky items like sweaters and ski gear for winter trips. The World is a Book

My best packing tips for families: make the kids pack and carry their own stuff. Whatever tempting cool clothing they want to buy along the way, they know they have to carry. This saves mom’s and dad’s backs. Also, dark fabric shows fewer stains, needs less washing, and shows less wear.  The Nomadic Family

One of my best pet travel packing tips is to always bring your dog’s blankets and pillows and a few toys that smell like home. It keeps them calm in the car and lets them have a piece of home when sleeping in a different hotel every night. It’s the best way to have well-behaved, well-traveled pets. The Constant Rambler

Read this packing list for toddlers and babies  to make traveling with a family a breeze!

Titanium Spork

Packing Tips for Everyone

Leave space in your backpack or suitcase. Use the extra room for souvenirs and purchases you make during travel. Awe Inclusive

When you’re taking a short trip,  pack your old underwear and throw it away after you wear it. I also take clothing I’m tired of and leave it behind, too. I pack underwear and jewelry in my shoes. Edgy June Travels

Pack a spork to make your street food experiences easier and more enjoyable. Travel Gear for Men

Don’t forget the duct tape. You’ll find a million and one uses for it. My Itchy Travel Feet

Here’s a twist on an old standby in terms of packing tips: 3M has come up with a new type of  Scotch Transparent Duct Tape . It comes in various strengths, but it is not yet available in convenient mini-rolls. Savvy Traveling

Take a look at these 25 random travel necessities and find out if they make sense for your next trip!

Waterproof Dry Bag

Besides the normal things like clothing and body products, I take a traveling natural health kit. One of the key ingredients is essential oils: they’re great for natural first-aid, to ward off germs and bacteria, and even for a bit of scent (smaller than any perfume bottle). I use lemon oil as my hand sanitizer wherever I go. It’s easier to carry and better smelling than most products on the market. Santa Fe Travelers

I always have a thread and needle.  It’s one of the more classic packing tips. Not only can you patch up your clothing, you can exchange your services for free beer. Going Nomadic

The best day bag for travel is a dry bag like this one that can protect and store your valuables! We Heart Scuba Diving

String and cable ties –it’s unbelievable how many times they’ve come in handy! Magnificent Potato

I always pack a hypoallergenic pillow case (one that zips) to cover gross pillows, which often contain dust mites. And, of course, I pack a sleep sheet (some call it a “sack”) to protect me from bed linens I’d rather not touch.  Chicky Bus

Buy a universal adaptor rather than one suited only for the country you’re visiting. It saves money in the long run and gives you more travel flexibility (especially during airport layovers). Inside the Travel Lab

I always carry earplugs and a headlamp. You never know when you will need them. Ordinary Traveler

Find out our top 10 travel essentials for backpackers !

Osprey Packs Farpoint 55 Travel Backpack

I keep a “quick fix” kit in my cabinet and grab it for trips. It contains earplugs, a sleep mask, lip balm, ibuprofen, and extra contact lenses. I also bring flavored tea bags to relax with a cup of tea no matter where I am. As for clothing packing tips, I keep it simple with lots of black. It goes with everything and is difficult to stain!  Spanish Sabores

Buy a backpack that isn’t a top loader. Backpacks like the Berghaus Jalan and the Osprey Farpoint zip most of the way around and open like a suitcase, which makes getting to your stuff a lot easier! Gap Year Escape

Keep a list of all the items you need for a vacation  overseas or a weekend trip, as each type of trip requires different things to pack, especially electronics– chargers, lenses, memory cards, etc. A list means it’s less likely to be forgotten. Kiwi Travel Writer

The best item I’ve found is a  travel clothesline . If you’ll be hand-washing your clothes while traveling, it’s super convenient. SKJ Travel

Because we at Green Global Travel often venture to off-the-beaten-path destinations, it’s crucial that we pack light and carry clothes that can be washed and dried very easily. Green Global Travel

Have lip balm and your Speedo if you’re traveling in Europe. And always pack light is one of the golden packing tips! Dream Euro Trip

Want the ultimate guides for packing light? Read our Pack Light Stylishly book to get started and see our packing tips, and take our master class if you’re ready to Stop Overpacking !

A giant thank you to all the travel bloggers who shared their packing tips in this post!

If you have any travel packing tips to share, please add them in the comments below!

For more packing tips, please read:

• 75 Packing Tips that Will Make Your Travels So Much Easier
• This Video Will Change the Way You Pack 
• Packing Lists for (Almost) Every Destination
• Think Traveling Carry-on is Impossible? Read this

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72 comments.

That’s quite an interesting article Alex, and I find it really useful, As a corporate traveller, packing things is literally hectic work, and I am going to follow your tips for my upcoming travels. Hope this parking trick could save some space.

Hi Gloria, thank you for your feedback, glad that you found the article helpful! Safe travels! 🙂

I found all the tips very useful, I use some of them. I would like to add a few I use. Packing bijoux jewelry, I pass necklaces through a straw to prevent tangling, put rings and earrings seperately in small ziplocks then all together in a small cosmetic pouch and into my suitcase. For expensive jewelery I put it in a small cufflink box which accomodates two diamond rings, a medium sized locket and a brooch. This protects them from being compressed. Then I carry it in my handbag in a small zippered compartment. Hope this may help somebody.

Hi, thank you so much for your comment! Thank you for sharing you great tips 🙂

That’s quite an interesting article Shari Melillo, and I find it really useful, As a corporate traveller, packing things is literally hectic work, and I am going to follow your tips for my upcoming travels. Hope this packing trick could save some space on air travel

Tips to save space in your suitcase

Roll the clothes instead of folding them. You can save your space and carry some extra items such as belt and pair of extra socks in your baggage.

Wear as much as you can rather than packing it. This doesn’t sound cool but it is one of the best trick. Wear extra clothes inside your over coat and later remove them once you are on your sear after boarding the flight. A little extra layer of clothes on your body will give you a lot of free space in your bag. Now you have some extra space in your suitcase to put some more items.

You can also use your pockets to hold small things rather than putting them in your luggage. You can even fold small clothing items and place them in large pockets of a jacket or cargo pants.

I just read this and must say, I should have done so a few weeks earlier 🙁

One thing I found interesting lately is to use tools for my packing. whattopackforatrip.com is one example but there are a few more. Can you do something like this too 🙂

Thanks for one marvelous posting! I enjoyed reading it, you are a great Writer. Keep up the wonderful works on. I’ve added you to my blogroll as well.

Glad seeing this kind of tips, make sure to bring a handy soap, roadeavour scented soap sheets is a must have!

I also think packing with capsule wardobe principles is also very effective.

Glad you agree! All of our packing lists are based on a capsule wardrobe: https://travelfashiongirl.com/packing-lists/

Great tips! I agree that rolling your clothes make them take up less space.

Thanks Andy!

Like one of your correspondents above said – practice pack and pitch. Any old clothes that are serviceable but may have a spot or are heavily worn get packed and pitched along the way. You can always tie a scarf so it covers a spot and you’re never going to see these people again. Your pitch will equal your stuff purchased. And stuff left in Peru, mark it trash bastuda, doesn’t worm its way back into your closet. I also just purchased an Elizabeth and Clarke unstainable tshirt and can’t wait to see if they work well.

Great tips! Thanks Marilyn!

when staying in a hotel, just below the peephole in the door, there is usually a sign describing protocol for emergencies. next to this sign is (usually) a card inserted with room prices, check-out times, etc. pull this card halfway out and use it to cover the peephole for privacy. this gave me peace of mind when my young daughter and I traveled alone. an alternative would be to cover the peephole with a small piece of blue painter’s tape. I also locked and bolted the door and placed the (empty) plastic trash can a few inches from the door before we went to bed. this would give us valuable seconds if someone tried to enter our room while we were asleep!

Thank you for your post. space while helping your bras maintain their shape by stacking them on on top of each other. You can even store you underwear inside of the cups.

Great tip Kyla!! Thanks for sharing!

A portable speaker is a great item to take with you. You can listen to music anywhere and even charge your phone with them.

That’s a great tip!

I always (always!) use a packing list for every trip and just tweak it each time based on where, when & how long the trip is. It’s divided into four sections.

Section 1 is for things I might need to have at the ready like passports, reservation paperwork, phone charger, antibacterial wipes, etc. This is basically my travel bag list.

Section 2 is for toiletries and rarely changes.

Section 3 is for planning outfits. I break it down with the itinerary for each day and what the expected weather will be, and then pre-plan out each outfit for each day/event, including belts, shoes and accessories. Keeping to this strict plan helps me from over-packing!

The fourth and final section is for anything extra, like a hat, gloves, undies, bras, etc. Also included in this section are little extras like small hand fans for hot & humid climates, a small baggie for the hotel remote control (one of the germiest things in your room), etc.

Great suggestions Pollyana! Thank you so much for sharing your method! Sounds like you’ve got packing down! Happy travels!

Traveling is a fun activity but doing it repeatedly can eventually tire a traveler down. Because of this, many frequent travelers have realized the importance of preparing luggage that allows one to carry necessary travel items without compromising comfort. Much of the challenges come from identifying the trip, choosing and prioritizing the items that will be brought according to the trip, and finding the right packing technique to ensure that the luggage that will accompany the traveler will not cause any discomfort.

Thanks for your message Lecitia! Great tips! Comfort is definitely most important when selecting what to bring and what luggage to bring it in. Thanks for reading! Safe travels!

So many people recommend rolling clothes instead of folding, and I’ve even tried the “military” style you can learn on YouTube videos. However, I still find correct folding (eg, the KonMari method) makes my suitcase so much more calm and organized. And fewer wrinkles.

It’s great that you’ve found the way that works best for you! Keep packing smart 🙂

My Husband and I are leaving for 90 days travel and I am keeping it to one roller thanks to a lot of the tips here.

Wow thank you Piccola 🙂 Have a wonderful journey!

I like to carry a backpack on the plane for all my stuff. Instead of dealing with a purse AND a backpack, I just put my necessary purse contents (wallet, smartphone, meds, etc.) in the backpack and pack my purse in my suitcase.

Perfect strategy!

I always bring a few wooden clothespins. I need the room very dark to sleep and the clothespins sometimes are perfect to hold a drape together. Of course they can be used in the obvious ways hand clothes to dry off a hangar or towel rack.

good tip! I’ve met travelers with plastic ones but wooden plastic it’s all the same 🙂

I try to lay out everything I want to pack, including cosmetic bag, etc., then live with it, at home, for the amount of time I’m going to be gone. Anything that doesn’t get used doesn’t go in the suitcase, and it’s an easy way to see if everything fits together. Takes discipline to do this, but it’s a good reality check.

That is dedication but if you do it once, you can keep reusing the same things for future trips. Great tip!

Alex, can you give me few tips regarding packing fine jewelry on business trip

great timing! have an article publishing on July 9th with your answer – stay tuned!

Great tips from everyone this is really going to help me this summer other thing when you make a list make sure you check off the important things first like start off with carry on luggage essentials any way this is my favorite site to go to when I’m having trouble packing oh almost forgot make your luggage noticble by putting ribbons and shoelaces so that way you would not have to worry when you get to the airport

I am not so sure if I shared this compilation on my page before, but I’m glad to see my tips and advice on this post now 😛

When going on a vacation where swimming is involved, I pack a lightweight, cheap or well used towel. Then, if I want to swim after the noon checkout time, I give away the wet towel at the end of the day.

Another useful and small, lightweight item is a little sponge (the little pink, yellow or green ones). They are incredibly useful, take almost zero room, and save towels if the floor gets wet.

I’ve been looking everywhere for a blog like this… finally 🙂

Glad you found it!

Great list – I thought I’d add that I always travel with a black and a grey tank top. They are perfect for layering if you are cold, sleeping in OR for modesty.

I agree, great to have some basics. Thanks!

Awesome tips! I am leaving for London on Wednesday for two weeks with my school, and these tips will help me pack and lower my anxiety over it! (: Thanks so much for this blog post, I really appreciate it! (:

Thanks Kelly! Glad to help 🙂

You also might find this post helpful: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/what-to-pack-for-london-on-your-trip-to-the-united-kingdom/

Loads of helpful stuff there – thanks. Glad to know that I am amongst fellow rollers and ziplockers!

Thanks Bernie! Rolling is the way to go 🙂

Thanks for including my duct tape tip. I’ll be linking to this list in our February newsletter.

Thanks Donna! Duct tape has endless uses – I especially like to use it to help prop up the massive universal adapters/converters into the outlet. Thanks again!

I am a first time visitor. I enjoyed your blog some great tips.

Thank you 🙂

What a great round-up post! Bookmarking this and will be using a few of these tips for the next trip. Thanks for including my tip 🙂

Thanks! Thanks for the tip 🙂

This is the best post on packing I’ve seen! (and not just cuz I got a nod, either) I especially love the last point made: “pack clothing you feel good wearing”

Thanks Laura! I hope I can get enough tips to make it to 100 🙂 high goals!

Thanks for including my tips! A bunch of great advice here from others.

Thanks Talon! What color is your sarong of choice? 🙂

Brilliant list! Thanks for including my tip!

Thanks Bethany and also for sharing your tip 🙂

I love these tips! I find an iphone invaluble for all of the language apps and google!

Thanks Stephanie. Hopefully you could use a few for your upcoming trip 🙂

Same here! Thanks and congrats for the article! 🙂

Thanks again! Great collaboration 🙂

Thanks for featuring my tip here, I love seeing what all the different range of travelers feel is important when packing! 🙂

Thanks for contributing Shannon! Great tips from everyone 🙂

Great tips! I have already bookmarked this for future reference. Thanks for including mine 🙂

Thank you! No matter how experienced you are, it’s still possible to pick up new tricks from others 🙂

I enjoyed reading your post full of great tips. Thanks for including mine. I’ve already tweeted your post.

Thanks Lisa! I’m happy with the turn out 🙂

So many great packing tips from knowledgeable travelers! Thanks for including mine 🙂

Thank you so much for contributing! 🙂

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The fuss-free way to get everything in your hand luggage – you don’t need packing cubes or rolling

• Kara Godfrey , Deputy Travel Editor
• Published : 5:25 ET, Apr 30 2024
• Updated : 6:56 ET, May 1 2024
• Published : Invalid Date,

TRYING to fit everything you need for a holiday into a hand luggage size suitcase can be a difficult task.

And advice on how to do it varies - from folding and rolling to using packing cubes and compression cubes.

However, a study has found that the best technique may be the classic folding one, using four different travel bags.

Conducted by Which?, they managed to fit 67 pieces of clothing into an underseat travel bag.

In comparison, they could only fit 60 items when using vacuum bags, when you suck out the air.

Only 66 items fit using packing cubes, as it left "gaps between each cube".

Overall, 129 items fit in the four bags (two underseat and two carry-on size) when rolling, compared to 121 rolling, 118 using compression cubes and 113 using vacuum packing.

The research said: "The easiest, most time-efficient method triumphed.

"Folding was best in suitcases that opened fully and had square corners.

"In the rucksacks that only unzipped halfway, we had to slide the folded squares of clothing inside."

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While they said this made things "less neat" it was still the best approach to packing the most, calling the verdict "no faff and free".

However, the study admitted that while rolling left clothes much less creased, and worked in squishy bags, it was a much harder method.

They explained: " Rolling is harder work than folding.

"If the rolled-up clothing was too long or wide to neatly slot into the case, we either had to reroll or curve it to fit the bag’s shape.

"This felt like Tetris – especially in the hard-sided rectangle suitcase.

Vacuum bags came out poorly too. While praising how well they shrank, they said they were "bulky to fit" leaving space in the case, and left stuff wrinkled.

Compression cubes were praised for being more organised and letting you find items more easily, but were "easy to overfill" so often had to take clothes out afterwards, taking more time.

They finished by saying: "When it comes to packing, you don’t need to spend £50 on compression packing cubes or vacuum roll bags – just get folding."

Other travellers have shared their packing tips over the years.

Daniel Green, who owns travel insurance company  Faye and has travelled the world explained his 1-2-3-4-5-6 rule .

He told  Business Insider : "Pack one hat, two pairs of shoes, three bottoms, four tops, five pairs of socks, and six pairs of underwear."

The 'world's most seasoned' flyer Tom Stucker, who has racked up a whopping 23 million miles, explained is "plus one" rule.

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This means o nly packing the absolute essentials, and a back-up .

Hand luggage rules for UK airlines

We've rounded up how much hand luggage you can take on UK airlines when booking their most basic fare.

One personal bag measuring no more than 40cm x 20cm x 25cm

One personal bag measuring no larger than 45cm x 36cm x 20cm

One personal item that fits underneath the seat in front and one cabin bag no larger than 56cm x 45cm x 25cm weighing up to 10kg

One personal item that its underneath the seat in front and one cabin bag no larger than 55cm x 40cm x 20cm weighing up to 10kg

British Airways

One personal bag no larger than 40cm x 30cm x 15cm and one cabin bag no larger than 56cm x 45cm 25cm weighing up to 23kg

Virgin Atlantic

One personal item that fits underneath the seat in front and one cabin bag no larger than 56cm x 36cm x 23cm weighing up to 10kg

• Holiday tips tricks and hacks
• Travel advice

10 Best Vacuum Storage Bags of 2024

Our top picks will increase your closet and suitcase space in minutes.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Our top picks:

Best Overall

Spacesaver vacuum storage bags.

GONGSHI Vacuum Storage Bags

Best for Travel

Ziploc space bag.

Top-Seller on Amazon

Cozy essential vacuum storage bags.

Best Variety Pack

Hibag vacuum storage bags.

Best for Bedding

Hefty shrink-pak vacuum storage bags.

Best for Stacking

Storage master jumbo vacuum storage bags.

Best Extra-Large

Vacwel vacuum storage bags.

Best Hanging

Taili hanging vacuum storage bags.

The best vacuum storage bags make the most of your space by removing the air inside and sealing it tight. Many use a vacuum or hand pump to suck out all the air, while some travel-friendly space bags can actually be hand-pressed shut. Because of this, they're great for packing out-of-season clothes, bedding and more into small spaces like under your bed or inside your suitcase .

After consulting our in-house experts and scouring online reviews, we've rounded up the best vacuum storage bags to shop on Amazon, starting at just $8 (with fast, free shipping to boot!).

The original Spacesaver vacuum storage bags are our top pick for heavy-duty storage needs where damage protection is imperative, like cross-country moves and travel. You can use either the included hand pump or your vacuum to reduce volume by up to 80%, according to the brand. Choose from small to jumbo sizes and variety packs for all your storage needs.

Reviewers appreciate its ease of use and sturdy plastic . "I'm moving all the way across the country and was stressed out wondering how much of my clothing I could actually take with me. These Space Saver bags are a life saver!" wrote one five-star reviewer . "They are so easy to pack, zip and vacuum out the air. One of my best purchases ever here on Amazon (and I've made thousands)."

Stow bulky bedding, sweaters, pillows and more with these space-saving storage bags. You can either use the included hand pump or a standard vacuum cleaner to compress each bag and reduce volume by up to 80%, according to the brand. For under $20, this pack comes with four bag sizes to store different items: the smallest size fits six to eight sweaters while the largest fits a queen-sized bedding set.

The triple-sealed valve is designed to keep bags airtight so your items stay condensed, and the double-layered material is designed to be puncture- and scratch-resistant, making it more durable against damage. "They're strong and sturdy," one Amazon reviewer said . "They have great sizes and storage space, and they hold the seal (some for a year now)."

Skip the checked luggage line at the airport with these travel-friendly storage bags. Forté named the Ziploc Space Bag a long-standing Lab favorite. There's no need for a pump or a vacuum to take the air out — simply fill each with up to five pounds of clothing or bedding, seal it with the Ziploc slider and fold to press out the air. It also costs under $10 for a pack of two.

Since they don't require any bulky equipment, these bags are a great option for users on the go. The brand claims the bags reduce the volume of clothing and bedding by up to 75%. They're also waterproof and airtight per the brand, meaning they should help protect your items from damage caused by travel and storage.

Boasting more than 38,000 five-star reviews and counting, Amazon's #1 best-selling space saver bags claim to shrink the size of your items by up to 80%. This variety pack includes 20 bags, making them great for anyone moving houses or with lots of vacuum storage needs. The pack includes standard vacuum-sealable bags as well as travel bags that can be rolled to press out air — no pump required.

Waterproof and reusable (purported by the brand), the bags' valves and seals are designed to prevent expansion and keep moisture and debris out. "The quality of these bags is outstanding," one online shopper wrote . "I feel confident storing my clothing, bedding and other textiles knowing they are safe and well-preserved."

Whether you need to increase your under-bed storage space or condense your clothes on the go, this pack offers the most variety with six different-sized bags for all your needs . The standard bags range from pouch-sized bags for lingerie and T-shirts to extra-large bags for bedding sets and pillows . Each waterproof bag has a handy line to show you where to stop filling them, making it more intuitive to pack than other options on our list.

While it can be sealed with the included hand pump or a vacuum, we love that the travel bags can be rolled to seal out excess air sans tool if needed. "These were a game changer during our move," an Amazon reviewer wrote . "The sizes vary drastically, accommodating many different types of items from quilts to pillows as well as clothes."

Hefty is known for its durable garbage bags and freezer bags, but the brand also has a line of high-rated vacuum storage bags. Including three large and three extra-large sizes, Hefty's Shrink-Pak bags claim to be waterproof and reusable season after season, so you don't have to worry about moisture, dust or bugs ruining your items. Plus, you can simply press the air out with your hands and seal.

We love how the extra large bags have a zipper on the long side rather than the shorter top, making it easier to pack bedding supplies like pillows and comforters. Shoppers agreed, with one writing : "We just went through a very long, drawn-out move and the shrink bags have been a true lifesaver! We were able to put lots of our clothes, towels and blankets in storage while we shopped for a new house. When we finally started unpacking, everything looked exactly the way it did when it was packed!"

Outfitted with a stylish plaid print, we wouldn't mind keeping these space bags out in plain sight. And it's not just for aesthetics. Their unique woven texture provides a bit of grip to their exterior, helping them to stay in place better while stacked. The bags come in four sizes and packs of six to 26, making them great for small organization projects and large undertakings.

Plus, they compress with a vacuum or its included pump. Reviewers appreciate the variety of sizes and ease of use, too. "I love these sealable storage bags!" one shopper wrote . "The quality is fantastic, very well-made and sturdy. I really like the assortment of colors and sizes, too, so much so that I ordered a second box!"

If you need to store cumbersome items like king-sized duvets, foam cushions or dog beds , Vacwel's XXL bags offer an impressive storage capacity of 47 by 35 inches . Featuring a nylon lining for extra durability, the brand claims these bags are waterproof and protect against dirt, bugs and dust. They even come with sticker labels to easily identify stored items.

"These bags are durable and got the job done," an Amazon shopper added . "I was able to vacuum seal large comforters and sheets! Very surprised at how many bedding items that I was able to put in the bags." Note that a pump is not included, so you'll need a vacuum handy to seal these bags.

Protect your out-of-season garments and make room for new pieces with these clever hanging storage bags on Amazon. You can stash up to five pieces of clothing inside each, including coats, jackets and suits . Just place one included hanger on each rotating ring, zip it up and vacuum all the air out. The vertical storage design keeps your clothes clean and organized until you're ready to wear them again.

"I get immense joy out of packing away my winter clothes in the Taili hanging bags," an Amazon reviewer said . "[It] shrink wraps everything into compact boards ... It was very easy and effective to use."

How we chose the best vacuum storage bags

With so many different options on the market, it can be difficult to determine which vacuum storage bags are worth buying. To help you find the right pick for your needs, we consulted our experts in the GH Institute Cleaning Lab and vetted customer reviews to bring you a range of vacuum storage bags that suit a variety of purposes.

How do you choose the best vacuum storage bags?

Choosing the best vacuum storage bags depends on your individual needs — do you just need to store a few seasonal sweaters, or pack up your whole house for a move? According to, the size and dimensions can help you figure out which options are right for you.

" They should be large enough to hold multiple items and be durable enough to use from year to year ," Forté says. For those who don't own a vacuum (or have one readily accessible), opt for a bag that can be rolled to compress or can be hand pumped.

What do you put in a space bag?

While you might want to use your vacuum storage bag to compress bulky items like winter coats and duvets, Forté warns against vacuum-sealing down-filled items . Instead, she recommends only compressing them halfway.

"Otherwise, you risk crushing and breaking the down feathers and they may then not be as lofty or insulate as well," Forté says. Additionally, be sure not to store wet items, or you risk creating mold and causing long-term damage.

How long can you store items in a vacuum storage bag?

Forté recommends using storage bags for short-term and seasonal storage . "Keep items in them too long, and you risk permanently setting creases or crushing and flattening items that are supposed to be lofty and puffy," Forte says. For best results, be sure to check the recommended storage time on your bag's instructions.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

Associate Commerce Editor Lauren Gruber put together this list of the best vacuum storage bag picks, based on insights and recommendations from Carolyn Forté .

Forté brings more than 40 years of experience as a consumer products expert to her role as executive director of the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Home Care and Cleaning Lab. Using deep analytical testing and writing expertise in appliances, cleaning, textiles and organizational products, she oversees all of GH's cleaning and home care product testing.

Lauren is a Brooklyn-based journalist and Associate Editor at Hearst. You can find her previous work at Entertainment Tonight , Shop TODAY , USA Today , Self Magazine , L’Officiel USA , V Magazine, and Modern Luxury Media . 

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Looking to take the kids to the coast this summer? With hundreds of stunning public beaches across the nation, a budget-friendly beach vacation is surely within reach. While you may think “crowded” and “overpriced” when it comes to a beach vacation, we’ve found the top spots with affordable accommodations, beautiful beaches, and tons to do...

The post Top 10 Budget-Friendly Beach Vacations in the U.S. appeared first on ShipGo Blog: The New Way To Travel .

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Traveling via air is a lot of hurry up and wait. Rush to your gate only to wait for hours to board. Rush to board only wait for another hour to depart. And for those with a connecting flight, a layover or two means even more waiting! So, why not put a positive spin on...

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The post 5 Best Lake Vacations in the U.S. appeared first on ShipGo Blog: The New Way To Travel .

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The 24 Best Travel Tote Bags for Your Next Big Trip

Whether it's your only bag or a carry-on supplement, a travel tote will take your packing game to the next level.

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

T&C Tried and True

Medium metro tote deluxe.

Separate Compartment for Organization

Lo & sons catalina deluxe tote.

Luxurious Essential

Cuyana easy travel tote.

Folds Small for Easy Packing

Lululemon packable tote bag.

Classic Tote

Longchamp large le pliage tote.

Everyday to Travel Tote

Etronik travel duffel bag with usb charging port.

Minimalist and Functional

The renew transit weekender.

Bargain Bag

Bluboon travel tote bag.

Madewell The Shopper Tote

Heavy Lifter

Boat and tote.

Whatever your travel needs for the season ahead, odds are that a good tote can make your packing life more organized, and less stressful—honestly, what more could you hope for? With that in mind, we've scoured the internet for the more durable, functional travel totes for every type of traveler, from the serial overpacker to the organization fiend. Here, our favorite finds for all of your journeys.

Perpetually trying to find space in your carry-on for one last thing? Meet what one T&C editor calls, "the personal item of every overpacker's dream." Featuring five exterior pockets, plus six on the interior and an detachably pouch, it will keep all of your travel essentials organized while it's sturdy-yet-lightweight construction makes it easy to tuck in "just in case" items to your hearts desire without overwhelming your arms.

The cushy, reinforced straps are easy on the shoulders, but it also has a detachable crossbody strap and a built-in sleeve to slip over the handle of your luggage if you don't feel like toting. It also comes in four sizes (we're fond of the medium for it's ability to hold oodles of stuff while still slipping neatly beneath the seat in front of you on a plane) and a seasonally-refreshed roster of more than a dozen shades, making it as stylish as it is functional.

Lo & Sons Catalina Deluxe Tote

For the "a place for everything and everything in its place" traveler, this tote has you covered with a zippered bottom pocket that's perfect for separating out toiletries or dirty shoes from the rest of your haul (an interior panel also allows you to open the bottom compartment fully, if you're craving a deeper bag.)

Available in recycled poly or sturdy canvas, at 15" x 14" x 7", it qualifies as a personal item for most airlines and has a handy luggage sleeve to pair with your suitcase. For those looking for larger options, it comes in four additional sizes as well.

Cuyana bags are a favorite of T&C editors and royals alike ( Meghan Markle is a big fan ) for their timelessly stylish silhouettes, buttery soft leather, and effortless functionality. This, their latest launch, is made specifically with travel in mind.

Crafted with lightweight, durable pebbled leather (currently available in four colorways) it offers ample interior space (a 37L volume, to be precise) plus two large pockets, a phone slip, and a key clip, as well as snaps for Cuyana devotees who want to mix in their System Flap Bag or System Zipper Pouch .

If you're more of a "shop when you get there" traveler, this bag brings the souvenir space without taking up lots of room in your primary bag. Water-repellant and roomy (it holds 32L by volume) it features rugged shoulder straps, plus an extra strap that lets it slip over the handle of roller luggage, and can fold into its own exterior pouch when not in use to make a tidy, handheld bundle.

Some things are classic for a reason. Case in point: this timeless Longchamp tote; just ask T&C 's associate shopping editor, Sophie Dweck, who's been carrying hers for over a decade . Made from sleek, easy-to-clean nylon that comes in a cornucopia of colors, it features a simple, spacious interior and strong leather straps that ensure it can stand up to anything your travels throw at it, and look good doing it.

Looking for a tote that's as useful in your day-to-day as it is when you're far away? This multi-use tote has racked up thousands of five-star reviews on Amazon for its versatility. A separate, vented shoe compartment makes it as friendly to gym sessions as beach trips, while its multiple pockets keep essentials organized. It also includes a luggage strap and a USB charging port so you can plug in your tech without rummaging through your bag for your battery pack, and comes in two sizes and almost 30 shades so it will match your travel style.

One reviewer writes: "I must say, it exceeded my expectations in every way! This bag is the perfect blend of style and functionality, making it a must-have for any woman on the go."

Type-A packers, take note: this 100% recycled polyester is all about options. Its four colorways can be worn crossbody, carried in hand, or over the shoulder, and include a zippered exterior pocket, a luggage sleeve, two water bottle holders, and a padded laptop sleeve—all with Everlane's signature modern minimalist vibe.

Available in 20 colorways and textures, this canvas tote features a luggage sleeve that also doubles as a tech pouch so your gadgets will always be at the ready. The sturdy construction and bargain price tag have made it a hit with reviewers, who site its roomy 16.5" x 9" x 14" size and comfort.

One reviewer writes: "I am so happy with this purchase! Reasonable price, large main compartment, and a few zip compartments to organize smaller items. Bag fits perfectly under airline seat, even when stuffed FULL. It stayed in place when I had it on top of my roller bag, and I noticed the shape of it kept it from making everything tip forward (which happened with my previous bag)."

For a travel bag that you can use as a purse all trip, this simple Madewell leather tote brings a perfect mix of style and space (12.75" x 12.75" x 7.5".) It even comes with an interior strap that allows you to change the shape, and doubles as a keyring.

True L.L. Bean lovers know that the brand's classic Boat and Tote bag is hard to beat—after all, it's been one of their signature styles since 1944. Crafted from rugged cotton canvas, it's tested to hold up to 500 pounds, so no matter how much you manage to overpack, this bag is guaranteed to take it on. And with four sizes and two interior lengths to choose from, as well as a dozen colors, there's a perfect one for all your needs.

Caraa Studio Tote

Whether you prefer a classic tote style or a backpack, this Italian leather bag gives you the best of both worlds. Along with the usual amenities (a slew of pockets, adjustable straps) it also has a collapsible waterproof shoe pocket for those days your travel plans call for a quick change.

More: The 18 Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks for Easy, Breezy Packing

Béis The Convertible Weekend Bag

This tote brings two-for-one power with a removable bottom compartment that can be used as is, or as a separate packing cube. Easy to clean polyester and polyurethane make it a cinch to keep looking like new, with a built-in luggage sleeve and removable laptop sleeve give it plenty of function for that rush through TSA.

Tumi Voyageur Just in Case Packable Nylon Tote

Some people pack an extra suitcase when traveling abroad. We propose this packable Tumi tote instead. It folds out to an impressive 8" x 14" x 8 size when fully opened and weighs less than a pound, so you can shop to your heart's content while getting those passport stamps.

More: The 13 Best Luggage Brands for Every Type of Traveler

Carhartt Legacy Tote East/West

Built to work hard, this water-repelling polyester Carhartt bag is tough enough to handle all of your travel adventures. It includes two exterior pockets as well as an interior divider and pockets, so it's and functional on the inside as it is on the outside.

One reviewer writes: "Even better than expected! I used it as my personal item for a trip to Mexico…placed my purse, tablet, magazines, etc inside…lots of pockets! Hides dirt, wipes off easily, very well made."

Revive Nylon Large Tote

Available in five-shades, this nylon tote (made with fabric crafted from 27 recycled water bottles with recycled leather trim) has jumbo exterior slip pockets (plus three interior pockets and a keyring) and a built-in padded laptop sleeve to match its roomy interior with organization.

One reviewer writes: "Great color, roomy, lots of pockets to keep things organized and easy to locate. Perfect for work and travel. Very happy with it."

Dagne Dover Jemi Tote

Want a travel tote that makes a style statement? Bring your puffer coat style to your bag with this versatile, vegan tote made from recycled plastic water bottles. At less than a pound and half (it holds 16.2 L volume), it's super lightweight, and has two sets of comfy handles—one for hand-held use and one for shoulder use—plus a luggage sleeve, so it's great no matter your travel style.

Naghedi Jet Setter Small Tote

Fully lined, basket-woven neoprene brings beautiful texture to this travel tote, making it ideal for those situations when you have to go straight from the plane to an event. It also has a zip closure and zippered interior pocket to ensure that your stuff stays in place even on the wildest travel days.

Scout Travel Bag Large

You want all of the weight in your travel bag to be from your must-haves, not from the bag itself. This colorful version from Scout (it comes in half a dozen colors and patterns) is a featherlight 1 pound, yet can hold up to 65 pounds of your gear, and can fold flat when not in use. It also comes with a zipper pocket and reinforced bottom so everything you pack stays comfortable where you want it.

Barbour Medium Travel Explorer Leather Tote Bag

The biggest name in waxed cotton jackets brings their British heritage sensibility to travel with this luxe 100% leather tote. Measuring 17.72'' x 14.96'', it comes with sturdy top handles and an adjustable shoulder strap for comfortable carrying.

More: The 13 Best Luxury Luggage for Traveling in Style

WONHOX Large Travel Tote Bag

This waterproof travel tote features a luggage sleeve, three interior pockets, including a special compartment to separate wet and dry items (looking at you, still-damp swimsuit) and four external pockets, as well as a zip-open expansion on the bottom so your bag can be as big, or small, as you need.

One reviewer writes : "Schlepped this bag all over Europe and it holds a surprising amount of stuff! The little expander area on the bottom really helped me squeeze in a few extra souvenirs. The trolley sleeve is a MUST from now on. It hooks on to your roller suitcase so easily and is sturdy! I was throwing my baggage up on the train, in and out of taxis and through many airports easy peasy."

Lauren Hubbard is a freelance writer and Town & Country contributor who covers beauty, shopping, entertainment, travel, home decor, wine, and cocktails.

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The Best Carry-On Backpacks for Every Traveler

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Best carry-on luggage for your next trip

As a participant in multiple affiliate marketing programs, Localish will earn a commission for certain purchases. See full disclaimer below*

The best carry-on luggage can easily fit in an airplane's overhead compartment and hold all your travel essentials without giving way. I spoke to Briggs & Riley's CEO Richard Krulik about what makes a good carry-on and listed the best carry-on luggage to buy now. Krulik only provided general shopping guidance, he did not make any product recommendations.

Carry-on luggage buying guide

Spinner wheels: "You want smooth wheels since that makes a huge difference when you're rolling the bag through a very long terminal," says Krulik. 360-degree spinner wheels are the best as they can rotate in any direction and will glide smoothly at the airport or train station.

Additional pockets: "A front pocket is always a real plus on a carry-on because you may want quick access to a magazine or a light jacket," says Krulik. Some carry-ons also have extra back pockets.

Telescopic handle: "You also want a firm solid handle that's not flimsy or wobbly," says Krulik. An adjustable handle is also important as we're all different heights, he adds.

Locks: You must buy a carry-on with built-in locks or lockable ones. TSA-approved locks can help keep your bag safe on the off chance that you need to check it in at the gate. You can also use your carry-on to hold travel documents instead of using the safe in your hotel room.

Durability: Ballistic nylon is the strongest and most long-lasting durable material, according to Krulik. That said, reinforced polyester is also a great option if you're looking for hard-sided luggage says Krulik. Before you shop, also make sure to look at a brand's testing requirements. Brands will usually test the bag's wheels on uneven surfaces to see how they hold up, and check how strong the outer shell is by subjecting the bags to drop tests.

Style: This depends on personal preference. Maybe you want a monogrammed travel suitcase or a bag that stands out from the rest - maybe in a pastel color? You'll want to think of your bag as an accessory, says Krulik. Keep your personal style in mind when you shop.

Size: Every airplane has different carry-on requirements, that said most domestic airlines require that your carry-on be 22 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches in size. International airlines are a bit different, while many follow the same domestic rules, some airlines prefer carry-ons only to be under 22 inches tall. Either way, check your chosen airline's baggage size requirements before purchasing any of the below.

Best carry-ons

Best carry-on bag.

Proxis Global Carry-on Spinner

Samsonite is a brand I swear by, having owned their luggage pretty much my entire adult life. The Proxis is one of their newer collections and a great option if you prefer hard-sided luggage. It has dual spinner wheels for maneuverability, an adjustable aluminum handle and a rugged exterior that won't get bumped or bruised during your travels. It also has a USB port, in case you want to charge any devices and a TSA-approved lock for safety. The interior has mesh pockets for additional storage and cross straps to hold your garments. Since this is a smart suitcase, you may have to remove the installed battery during security check, so keep that extra step in mind.

Dimensions: 22" x 14" x 9"

Best splurge

Briggs & Riley Essential Expandable Carry-On

Briggs & Riley makes some of my favorite carry-ons and I love them for their lifetime warranty - if you break a zip or see a dent in your suitcase, you can send the suitcase to the brand to have it repaired for free. This particular option is available in three colors and can also be monogrammed, making it easy to identify in a sea of similar-looking luggage. It has a TSA-approved lock and features the brand's flagship expandable and compression technology which allows your suitcase to hold more, without increasing its dimensions. The handle is adjustable too, and there is a carry handle on top, on the bottom and on its sides. There is also a built-in garment folder to make packing easier and zipped pockets on the interior for any essentials.

Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9 - 11.5 in (includes wheels and handles)

Largest carry-on bag

The Carry-On Roller In Text Me Red

This aesthetic carry-on is one of my favorites as it stands out from the other options on this list. It has a durable polycarbonate hard shell build and is available in multiple colors. It has spinner wheels like our other options and also has top and side carry handles. It also has TSA locks and is expandable just in case you need to fit more in. The interior has compression straps to hold your clothes, and also a separate pocket where you can store dirty clothes or undergarments. While it doesn't have an exterior pocket, it does come with an additional small pocket on the interior that is designed to hold any small valuables.

Dimensions: 22.85" x 15.75" x 9.85" (including wheel & handle)

Best water resistant

Terra 45L Carry-On Luggage

This is the best combination of both soft-side and hard-side luggage. It's made from polyester and polycarbonate. It has 360-degree spinner wheels like the other options and also has multiple exterior pockets for any travel documents or essentials. It has a designated laptop compartment, is expandable and also has a water-resistant exterior - perfect for unpredictable weather. The inside has compression straps and mesh pockets for storage. Plus, the product is made from recycled bottles, making this one of the most sustainable items on this list.

Best budget

Wrangler Smart Luggage

This budget-friendly carry-on sets itself apart thanks to its convenient cup holder attached to the bag. It also has multidirectional spinner wheels, top and side handles and is expandable, if needed. It even features a phone holder and also has a USB port option for your devices. The interior has one large zipped pocket and a side with compression straps. It's the most basic interior layout compared to the other options, but at its price, it's still one of the best carry-ons you can buy.

Best carry-on duffel bag

Away The Weekender

Away is another great luggage brand and they make both carry-on suitcases and duffel bags. The Weekender is a great pick for short trips and can hold a 15-inch laptop plus multiple changes of clothes. It has a detachable shoulder strap for comfort and a water-resistant design that's built to last. The interior has mesh pockets and a detachable key clip to help keep your everyday essentials organized. Right now, you can shop it in four colors.

Dimensions: 20.9" x 11.8" x 9.4"

Is hard-side or soft-side luggage better?

Soft-side luggage is less susceptible to getting scratched up, according to Krulik. That said, one isn't really better than the other, it's more a matter of personal preference. Soft-side luggage also has tons of additional front and back pockets for storage, which is not common on hard-side luggage. If you're packing items that are fragile, a hard-side option is better, according to Krulik.

How can I efficiently pack my carry-on?

"One of the things that I think people don't realize is every time you make a fold in your clothes, it's adding bulk to what you're packing," says Krulik. Fold your shirts in half instead of threes, he adds. "Secondly, there's dead space inside those shoes that you're packing." Stuff them with travel shampoo bottles or anything else that fits says Krulik. Finally, if you have an expandable suitcase, make sure you avoid expanding it till the end of your trip. "If I go with a maximum bag that's stuffed to the limits, I have no place to put anything that I might want to buy on the trip."

Meet our expert:

Richard Krulik: Krulik is the CEO of the travel luggage brand Briggs & Riley. Krulik only provided guidance on how to shop for a carry-on, he did not make product recommendations. Products were individually selected by our editor.

* By clicking on the featured links, visitors will leave Localish.com and be directed to third-party e-commerce sites that operate under different terms and privacy policies. Although we are sharing our personal opinions of these products with you, Localish is not endorsing these products. It has not performed product safety testing on any of these products, did not manufacture them, and is not selling, or distributing them and is not making any representations about the safety or caliber of these products. Prices and availability are subject to change from the date of publication.

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The 7 Best Packing Cubes of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

We love space-saving packing cubes for long and short trips, and these are the best out there.

In This Article

Jump to a Section

• Our top picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying

Look for sets that include multiple sizes

• Why Trust T+L

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Vicky Wasik

Packing cubes are hands down one of the best travel hacks out there. Whether you’re a meticulous list-maker or planning procrastinator, investing in a set of packing cubes is a game changer for staying organized and saving space without having to put in too much effort. 

At Travel + Leisure , we take our travel hacks seriously so we put 23 sets of regular and compression packing cubes to the test both in our New York City lab and out during real travels to find the best ones on the market. We understand that everyone has unique preferences so we also found picks for travelers embarking on long trips, outdoor adventurers, and minimalist packers looking for one just a few cubes to do the trick.

Best Overall

Gonex compression packing cubes.

• Capacity 5 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Quality 5 /5

The lightweight cubes easily compress clothing down to save space in a suitcase. 

They repel some water but are not waterproof. 

We love the Gonex Compression Packing Cubes thanks to their impressive space-saving ability. During six months of tests, we found these cubes to be monumentally helpful when it comes to consolidating and organizing clothing items between the different-sized cubes. The compression cubes help you get more items packed than a regular version of a packing cube and the sturdy zippers make compressing the packed cubes easy, leading us to believe that these cubes will last over time with the durable zippers and stitchwork. 

Although the nylon material isn’t waterproof, we splashed a little water on the outside and found that the material repels some water (but the clothing should remain dry with the extra protection of a suitcase, too). Plus, the handles on the top of each cube make it easy to grab the bags for packing and unpacking, and we love that the set includes an extra-large, large, medium, and small bag for variety.

The Details: 3 or 4 bags included | 17.3 x 13 x 3.54 inches (extra large), 14.5 x 10.6 x 3.54 inches (large), 11.8 x 8.9 x 3.54 inches (medium), and 9.8 x 7.5 x 3.54 inches (small) | Ripstop nylon

Travel + Leisure / Vicky Wasik

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Shacke Pak 5 Set Packing Cubes

 Amazon

• Design 4 /5
• Quality 4 /5

The set includes four cubes and a laundry bag. 

The mesh tops aren’t waterproof or resistant.

Whether you’re traveling with family or heading on a solo trip , these Shacke packing cubes are a steal of a deal. The set includes extra-large, large, medium, and small packing cubes, as well as a laundry bag for dirty clothes. Designed for up to 14 days of traveling, we found that the cubes lived up to their promise of providing plenty of space for a variety of types of clothing like pants, toiletries, shirts, and jackets. The cubes easily fit in the carry-on suitcase we used and with the various sizes, you can customize how many cubes you want to pack depending on the type of suitcase you have. 

While the cubes likely won’t prevent water from seeping through due to the mesh tops, you can easily see what you packed inside so you won’t have to unpack everything to find a piece of clothing. During our tests, we felt the durable nylon material and zippers would hold up well with prolonged use, and you can't beat the price for the full set either. 

The Details: 5 bags included | 17.5 x 12.75 x 4 inches (extra large), 13.75 x 12.75 x 4 inches (large), 3.75 x 9.75 x 4 inches (medium), 11 x 6.75 x 4 inches (small), and 20.5 x 15.75 inches (laundry bag) | Nylon

Best for Long Trips

Veken packing cubes with laundry and shoe bag.

The set includes four packing cubes, a shoe bag, and a laundry bag. 

These have to be hand-washed and air-dried. 

If you’re traveling internationally or taking an extended vacation, consider picking up a set of these Veken packing cubes from Amazon. The four packing cubes are thoughtfully designed with a clear strip on the top so travelers can easily see what they packed, and there are small graphics printed onto each cube recommending what type of clothing item could be stored inside. This set also includes a shoe bag and a laundry bag so you can keep your items separated and organized. We like that there are several different sizes so you don't have small items moving around in a cube that's too big or trying to cram a larger sweatshirt into something too small.

We think these nylon and polyester packing cubes are made to last with a thick fabric exterior and sturdy zippers and stitchwork. After six months of use, there is no sign of wear and the zippers are holding up well. Although we found the cubes to be slightly heavier than others we tested so keep that in mind if you’re an overpacker or striving to stay under the standard 50-pound limit for checked luggage. 

The Details: 6 bags included | 17.5 x 12.15 x 4 (extra large), 13.75 x 12.75 x 4 inches (large), 3.75 x 9.75 x 4 inches (medium), 11 x 6.75 x 4 inches (small), 16.96 x 9.06 x 4.72 (shoe bag), and 20 x 14 inches (laundry bag) | Nylon, ethylene vinyl acetate, and polyester 

Best for Camping

Rei co-op expandable packing cube set.

The tent-like material is lightweight and has a rugged look.

The mesh top doesn’t feel as durable as we hoped and these bags lose their shape when fully packed.

Outdoor enthusiasts should consider REI Co-op’s lightweight packing cubes for upcoming camping trips. The set of two comes with large and medium packing cubes that remain at the standard three-inch height or they can be expanded another three inches to double the capacity. After six months of regularly using the packing cubes, we found that all seams and zippers held up extremely well, even after packing heavy winter clothing.

In testing, the tent-like nylon proved to be water-resistant as advertised, however, the top of the cubes are made of a breathable mesh that doesn’t repel water and felt a little less sturdy than the nylon portion. Though the mesh top isn’t ideal for waterproofness, we like how easy it is to see what we packed through the little mesh holes. Plus, the lightweight materials are ideal for campers or backpackers looking to stay organized without sacrificing weight. 

The Details: 2 bags included | 14.5 x 10.5 x 3 inches (large) and 12 x 8 x 3 inches (medium) | Ripstop nylon and polyester

Best Sustainable

Peak design packing cubes.

Peak Design

Peak Design uses 100 percent recycled materials to make the cubes.

The easy access zippers were finicky to use.

San Francisco-based Peak Design is known for its slew of sustainable outdoor gear made with carbon neutral and recycled materials, including expandable packing cubes. We tried the small- and medium-sized cubes and found them to be spacious, well-built, and resistant to water after splashing a bit on the exterior. After regularly using the cubes for six months, we loved the capacity of the medium cube and found the smaller option to be good for packing undergarments or even toiletries. We especially love that the cubes are made from 100 percent recycled nylon that is solution-dyed to prevent excessive water use following the brand’s carbon-neutral footprint and each bag expands to fit even more items.

The cubes can compress down to a height of 3.1 inches, but we discovered they function best as an expandable packing cube that can increase in size, rather than a compression cube that is designed to heavily consolidate clothes. Additionally, the cubes feature an “easy access” zipper so travelers can reach inside the bag without opening the whole thing, but we think this feature is unnecessary to use due to the zipper getting snagged. 

The Details: 1 bag included | Various sizes | Ripstop nylon

Best Personalized

Paravel packing cube quad.

• Design 4.5 /5

The cubes can be monogrammed with up to three letters for an additional $25. 

The large cube is so big it takes up most of the space of a carry-on bag.

Indulge your love for matching with this set of personalized packing cubes from Paravel. Although it costs an extra $25, you can get up to three letters embroidered onto the set of four packing cubes with 11 color options. If you're shopping for a stylish, functional personalized travel gift , this is a wonderful option. The set comes with one large, one medium, and two small-sized packing cubes that can hold an impressive amount of clothing and still fit in most carry-on bags. These cubes are great for any type of traveler, but especially for those looking for water-resistant cubes for checked bags that will be handled outside in different weather conditions. After six months of use, we found that these cubes provide exceptional organization with room to pack bulkier items in the larger bags and toiletries or undergarments between the two smaller cubes.

As a bonus, these cubes won't take up much space in between trips. They're easy to store and stack right inside one another. The size variety is also convenient for different types of trips and we love having the option to use one, two, three, or all four bags in a checked bag if needed.

The Details: 4 bags included | 18 x 3.75 x 12 inches (large), 12.75 x 3.75 x 10 inches (medium), and 8.2 x. 3.75 x 6.25 inches (small) | Nylon

Calpak Packing Cubes 5-piece Set

There are 14 designs to choose from including groovy blue, retro sunset, and cheetah prints. 

The set might be better suited for frequent fliers.

If you travel often and are looking to invest in a splurge-worthy set of packing cubes, you can’t go wrong with these from Calpak. We love the unique design options with 14 colors and patterns to choose from including classics like solid pink and gold marble, or limited-edition prints like a wavy retro sunset and groovy blue picks. The set includes one large, one medium, and two small cubes, as well as a water-resistant envelope for cosmetics.

After six months of using these packing cubes during international trips, we found that all the bags were spacious enough to fit a variety of clothing options for organized and efficient packing. We love the diversity of sizes to hold things like undergarments as well as shoes if needed. We also love the option to bring a folded large cube to keep dirty clothes separate. The polyester material feels well-made and built to last, and the zippers zipped without any issues which helps justify the higher price point for this set. And, if you’re traveling with your family, we think the set would be great for separating and organizing clothing for several travelers thanks to the removable identification tags where you can write what clothing went into each cube. 

The Details: 5 bags included | 17 x 12 x 3 inches (large), 15 x 11 x 3 inches (medium), 12 x 8.8 x 3 inches (small), and 13 x 10 x 1.5 inches (envelope) | Polyester

Other Packing Cubes We Liked

There were several sets of packing cubes we highlighted below that almost made our list of best packing cubes, but they fell short during testing due some minor flaws we noticed. 

Well Traveled Compression Packing Cubes : This set of compression packing cubes is great for budget-friendly travelers but our top pick is also a compression set that had a better overall performance in testing. 

Lean Travel Premium Compression Packing Cubes : The set of three cubes is made with thick polyester that still feels lightweight, but besides that, there weren’t any standout features compared to our other top performers. 

Briggs & Riley Packing Cubes : These cubes were spacious and water-resistant, but for $59, we expected a higher performance to match the price for three standard packing cubes.

We evaluated 23 sets of both compression and regular packing cubes in our New York City lab and based our testing on traits like capacity, design, quality, and value. First, we unpackaged the sets of packing cubes and examined the quality of the bags by twisting and pulling them to check the stitchwork and using the zippers to see if they snagged or glided smoothly. After packing the cubes with a variety of clothing items like pants, jackets, undergarments, and shirts, we placed the cubes in a carry-on suitcase to see how well they fit in a piece of luggage. Our top contenders for capacity and design provided plenty of space for a range of clothing items with useful and thoughtful features that made packing easier and more organized.

For compression-specific packing cubes, we paid close attention to how much space the packing cube saved once we zipped the compression zippers. For all cubes, we splashed a bit of water on the exterior and felt the inside to see if any of the packed contents were damp. After testing each set of cubes in our lab, we sent them home to be tested during real travels around the world for six months. We regularly collected insights on durability, functionality, and overall quality during this period to ensure each cube continued to impress.

Tips for Buying Packing Cubes

Compare compression versus regular packing cubes.

Compression packing cubes are designed to condense clothing by using the compression zipper to pack down the clothes in order to save space in a suitcase. Regular packing cubes are mainly for organizing clothes efficiently rather than consolidating clothing to make more room in a piece of luggage. Compression packing cubes can usually be expanded or compressed which gives travelers the best of both worlds.

One of the best parts about packing cubes is staying organized on the go with little effort. To help you keep like items together, consider buying a set of multiple packing cubes with different sizes. That way, you can know without opening the case what cube holds your pants, your shirts, your undergarments, and more. The various size options also let you mix and match the cubes to fit whatever luggage you're bringing from weekender duffles to large checked bags.

Flexible fabrics like nylon or polyester are best for packing cubes as they'll allow you to pack the most items. These materials also tend to be water-resistant, keeping your items extra safe throughout your travels.

When it comes to saving space, experts say you can fold your clothes or roll them — it ultimately doesn’t matter. The most important thing is maximizing your space, and packing cubes are great for doing just that. Besides saving space, packing cubes can help you stay organized before and during your trip making them a must-have travel organizer .

For travelers who usually use checked luggage, consider purchasing a set with five or six cubes included so you can maximize space in each suitcase. And, if you’re a carry-on-only type of traveler, one or two packing cubes in small or medium sizes could be better suited for your needs, and you won’t have to worry about storing a large set either. Backpackers or campers should consider getting just one or two compression or regular cubes that can fit in a backpack or weekender bag for lighter packing .

Depending on the size of your packing cubes and luggage, the bags can be placed in either compartment of a suitcase or duffel bag. As always, you'll want to do your best to evenly distribute the heavy packing cubes so the bag doesn't become top or bottom-heavy. Ideally, the rectangle shape of your cubes should make it easy to take up every inch of space in a suitcase.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Anna Popp is an associate commerce editor at Travel + Leisure , covering all of the best travel products from luggage to footwear. A recently converted compression packing cube user, Anna didn't know what she was missing out on until investing in multiple sets of packing cubes. She put together this list of the best packing cubes based on the results from the packing cube test we conducted in our New York City lab.

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Reader's Digest

We Tested the 7 Best Underseat Luggage Picks for Convenient Travel in 2024

Posted: March 30, 2024 | Last updated: March 30, 2024

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Carry On Rolling Underseat Bag Rda Luggage Ef 022124 3776 Scale Weight V1

Colors: Slate green, black, ensign blue, orchid, champagne | Material: Polyester fabric with DuraGuard coating | Weight: 5.7 lbs. | Dimensions: 17 x 13 x 10 in. (height, width, depth) | Telescopic handle height: 42 in.

Frequent fliers consistently choose Travelpro as a dependable luggage brand. This soft-sided compact carry-on meets all the criteria for the best underseat luggage. For starters, inline skate wheels and a telescopic handle make it easy to maneuver around the airport. We love all the convenient interior and exterior storage options, including a padded laptop sleeve and removable wet pocket.

We tested the Travelpro Maxlite and found that it fits conveniently under the seat of most major airlines including American, Spirit, Frontier, Southwest and JetBlue. With some effort, our testers packed a weekend's worth of accessories and clothing into the suitcase. The underseat luggage is equipped with specially-designed compartments and quick-access pockets with dividers and Velcro closures. One value-added feature is the snap-in toiletry bag that is beneficial for a weekend trip. Additionally, the front inside pocket has a keychain hook and the back has a slot for the included luggage tag.

As far as maneuverability, the telescopic handle is sturdy once locked in place and features a curved handle that rests at a nice height. The two ball-bearing wheels are high-quality and roll well when tested over different floor types, cords and sharp turns. Although we weren't particularly impressed with the clunky Velcro straps, we felt the zippers and wheels were durable and the two legs that hold the luggage upright were a nice touch.

Available in five colors, this underseat bag also coordinates with other luggage in the Maxlite line and includes a 100-day trial and a lifetime warranty for a lifetime of travel. Did you know that pilots only travel with soft-sided luggage , too?

Travelers Club Smart Under Seat Carry On Luggage Rda Luggage Ef 022124 3809

Colors: Purple, navy blue, black | Material: Polyester fabric | Weight: 5 lbs. | Dimensions: 14.5 x 14.38 x 10.25 in. (height, width, depth) | Telescopic handle height: 40.125 in.

If you're flying a budget airline, including Frontier or Spirit, and want to get away without paying for a carry-on or checked bag, invest in this incredibly frugal smart suitcase instead. This budget-friendly underseater is a favorite with Amazon reviewers, boasting a built-in USB charging port for keeping gadgets powered on the go. It also has a telescopic handle, smooth inline skate wheels, multiple exterior pockets for easy access to accessories and ample interior storage space.

A weekend's worth of clothing easily fits inside this bag. We found even more space for our separate toiletry bag with room in the external pockets. The best part of this bag is the elastic-topped open pouch below the USB port that holds the power bank. However, we also liked how well this luggage rolled around with only two wheels. It felt so lightweight that we had to double-check that it was packed. And even without adjustable height options, the push-button telescopic handle made it pleasant to lug this bag around.

Coming in as the least expensive option on our best underseat luggage list, this smart carry-on fits comfortably under the seat of American, Spirit, Frontier and JetBlue. It might be a stretch to fit it under the seat of a Southwest flight, so we recommend checking the airline's website for specific size requirements. Beware before flying, though, not all carry-ons are free . It's available in different colors and only weighs 5 pounds, so it won't weigh you down as you rush to your terminal.

The 7 Best Underseat Luggage Of 2024, According To Travel Experts Rda Luggage Ef 022124 3806

Colors: Black herringbone, terracotta herringbone | Material: Polyester | Weight: 7.05 lbs. | Dimensions: 18.5 x 14.5 x 9.25 in. (height, width, depth) | Telescopic handle height: 41.5 in.

Business travelers or other frequent fliers should invest in durable, multifunctional pieces of underseat luggage with all the bells and whistles. That's why the Herringbone Deluxe Underseater by Hartmann is our pick for the best underseat luggage for business travel or international travel .

Constructed of durable polyester fabric, this underseat bag withstands dirt and sits on ball-bearing dual-spinner wheels for convenient and comfortable rolling. Alongside the Calpak, this was our favorite set of wheels. It performed swimmingly during our makeshift obstacle course and maneuvered well around tight corners.

Sleek pull handles made of lightweight yet strong virgin aluminum allow for a comfortable grip and two variable heights on the telescopic handle. The exterior features a USB port, TSA padlock and a SmartSleeve for sliding over an upright suitcase. As for interior features, it includes a padded laptop sleeve that fits a 15-inch laptop, multiple pockets for organization and a monogrammed lining. Don't forget to pack a travel pillow while you're at it!

In our testing, we concluded that you could certainly stuff this suitcase to the brim but wouldn't be able to utilize the front pocket. However, the overall design was high quality with a signature herringbone pattern for a timeless look. This underseat luggage is on the pricier side, but it includes a 10-year warranty, two color options, a list of noteworthy features and fits under the seat of American, Spirit and Frontier Airlines.

Vera Bradley Underseat Rolling Work Bag Rda Luggage Ef 022124 3802

Colors: Black, botanical paisley, enchanted mandala blue | Material: Polyester | Weight: 6.15 lbs. | Dimensions: 16 x 13.25 x 11 in. (height, width, depth) | Telescopic handle height: 41.5 in.

Looking for luggage with smart features that's sure to stand out? This Vera Bradley work bag is a top pick because it fits underneath the seat in front of you on most flights, features a handy USB port and is available in two stylish prints. Quick-stash exterior pockets and compartments offer easy access and room for all your travel essentials , so you won't misplace your passport at the last second. The main compartment also features a laptop sleeve and two elastic mesh pockets.

During our testing, we found the biggest benefit of this underseater was its storage ability. It was one of the roomiest suitcases we tested, making packing a breeze. We could readily fit clothing and then some in this highly expandable underseat luggage. Avoid packing mistakes by opening it from the side and unfolding it completely for easy packing. The included lock and USB port are a plus and the trolley sleeve adds convenience.

Furthermore, it performed well on U-turns with its purse-like top straps and low-profile handle. Unfortunately, the rolling work bag only comes with two non-spinning wheels and only one locking height on the telescopic handle.

If you're in the market for a fun bag with a signature look and room to fit enough clothing and accessories for personal travel like a weekend getaway, then this is the pick for you. It fits under the seat of American, Spirit, Frontier, Southwest and JetBlue Airlines and includes a five-year warranty.

Kenneth Cole Chelsea Carry On Chevron Quilted Underseater Rda Luggage Ef 022124 3825

Colors: Black | Material: Polyester twill | Weight: 5.05 lbs. | Dimensions: 16.5 x 12.75 x 10 in. (height, width, depth) | Telescopic handle height: 42 in.

If you're ready to travel in style , look no further than the Chelsea underseater from Kenneth Cole. This attractive carry-on has a chevron quilted exterior made of durable polyester twill with gold-plated zippers. Smart compartments include inside slip pockets, a laptop sleeve and dual exterior side pockets for shoes, water bottles and quick-access toiletries. Everything we packed readily fit inside this suitcase. The front zipper opens all the way for easy access, and the trolley sleeve in the back allows for convenient hands-free carrying. We also love the high-quality gold zippers, trim and beautiful tear-resistant lining.

Additionally, the telescopic handle has two adjustable height options with a fully extended height that we think the tallest travelers will love. Plus, the four 360-degree spinner wheels add to the bag's mobility but aren't as maneuverable as other four-wheel options on this list. We have concerns about the longevity of the pleather material of the purse-like straps and feel they might be susceptible to rips over time. However, the straps were still comfortable to hoist during our testing.

Pair this best underseat luggage with other bags in the Chelsea collection like a tote, backpack, 20-inch carry-on or larger suitcase set. According to its specs, the Chelsea underseater will comfortably fit under the seat of American, Spirit, Frontier, JetBlue and Southwest Airlines.

Calpak Ambeur Mini Carry On Luggage Rda Luggage Ef 022124 0250 Carpet V1

Colors: Rose gold, black, silver, gold and limited-edition copper | Material: Polycarbonate exterior and polyester interior | Weight: 5.95 lbs. | Dimensions: 16.5 x 14.25 x 8.5 in. (height, width, depth) | Telescopic handle height: 40.375 in.

Powers' pick for the best underseat luggage is Calpak's Ambeur Mini Carry-On . "It has a durable hard shell exterior to protect items," she explains. "It has 360-degree spinner wheels, making it super easy to roll, has cushioned top and side handles and has an interior divider with multiple pockets for easier packing. Its sophisticated design and smaller size for shorter trips is a winning combination." A carry-on like this will help you pack lighter and smarter for the next trip!

The Calpak ranked well in our testing, from packing to price. First, it arrived with a branded, protective drawstring bag. Secondly, the high-quality zippers click into adjacent locks and pop out when the locks are released. Additionally, a TSA-approved padlock and interior straps that keep the suitcase at an upright 90-degree angle make packing and traveling a whole lot easier.

Since this is a hardshell suitcase, it does not offer any exterior pockets. However, the durable exterior has a luxurious sheen and an incredibly attractive low-profile design. Our testers also loved the sturdy telescopic handles with two locking positions to adjust the height and the corner protectors around the four double wheels that roll like a dream.

Packing the top portion of this suitcase is a little tricky as it doesn't lay perfectly flat nor is it big enough for a MacBook Pro. We think the hardshell nature might not make this the best option for underseat storage as it would be difficult to access contents mid-flight and technically measures too big to stow under a seat on most major airlines. Nonetheless, it is well-designed with a two-year warranty and solid construction. Part of Calpak's Ambeur collection, you can still coordinate this piece with other luggage options like a vanity case.

What to look for when buying underseat luggage

Colors: Black, navy, olive | Material: Ballistic nylon | Weight: 7.05 lbs. | Dimensions: 14.5 x 15.5 x 8.75 in. (height, width, depth) | Telescopic handle height: 40.5 in.

A suitcase is considered an investment piece that should stand the test of time. That's exactly what you'll get when you splurge on this Briggs & Riley Baseline Cabin Spinner . Constructed of durable ballistic nylon fabric, this best underseat luggage withstands wear and tear, moisture, dirt and abrasions and sits on 360-degree shock-absorbing spinner wheels. It features a lifetime warranty where the brand will repair a broken or damaged bag free of charge, no questions asked.

This bag arrived in excellent condition with an attached hideaway luggage tag. Its ultra-compact design made it a bit difficult for us to pack everything inside without rolling the clothing or rearranging some items to create more space. Nonetheless, the bag does offer a front padded slip pocket, easily accessible side pockets and multiple roomy pockets on the inside. Although this bag doesn't technically fit within airline specifications for underseat luggage, we recommend using Briggs & Riley's airline carry-on guide for confirmation.

But our favorite feature was the smartly designed and incredibly strong interlocking handle system. Outfitted with a trolley strap on the back, this luggage stacks on top of other Briggs & Riley Baseline suitcases effortlessly. Elastic bands counterbalance the load to keep everything upright meaning your luggage is less likely to topple over while you run to your gate. It even worked when we stacked it on top of the Calpak mini carry-on.

The telescopic handle adjusts to a variety of heights and the four swivel wheels provide optimal turn radius. Another feature we loved during testing was the leather magnetic handle. This premium addition feels good to the touch and adds a luxurious feel that snaps and Velcro can't achieve. The self-repairing YKK zippers are on a thick, durable track that complements the bag's utilitarian design. However, you can add a free leather monogrammed nameplate to the cabin spinner for personalization.

When searching for the best underseat luggage, consider how often and how far you fly. If you stack up frequent flyer miles easily, then look for luggage that's durable enough to accompany you on your constant travel adventures. You might also want a hardshell suitcase or one with a stain-resistant exterior fabric to withstand wear and tear. A business traveler might prefer underseat luggage with many compartments and easy laptop access.

On the other hand, if you tend to only travel a couple of times a year for weekend getaways, then you can probably buy luggage that's more form than function. No matter the type of travel, we recommend underseat luggage that will, first and foremost, fit under the seat of the airline you fly. Otherwise, you'll have to utilize it as an overhead carry-on.

Furthermore, it's good to get luggage with ample storage to accommodate your length of stay, easy maneuverability to get from the security line to the boarding gate and telescopic handles for added comfort. TSA-approved padlocks and charging ports aren't necessary but are bonus features that we love.

Why you should trust us

Our editors aren't just product testers—they're flyers, cruisers and road trippers, too! And when we hear about the latest trends and innovations in luggage, we want to make sure the best travel products live up to the hype. We’ve put the top luggage brands to the test, including Monos, Beis, Away , Roam and Briggs and Riley, and regularly consult with industry experts for their expert opinions.

We’ve ranked the best carry-ons, weekenders, luggage sets and affordable suitcases , and also regularly try out travel accessories like neck pillows, toiletry bags, packing cubes and luggage racks. Whenever we find something we love, we make sure to tell you about it! Our Product Testing Team ordered, unboxed and experienced these luggage options for themselves. Of the 10 brands the team tested, only seven made the list. 

How we found the best underseat luggage to fuel your wanderlust

Before you cash in those miles and jet set to that tropical vacation hideaway, we want to make sure you have the top pick when it comes to the best underseat luggage. Our Product Testing Team tested 10 luggage brands in our studio from high-end retailers to everyday brands. With in-depth research and a rubric that tested size, durability, maneuverability, capacity and functionality, we narrowed that list from 10 to seven.

Our testers considered how well each underseat luggage best fit the designated size specifications on the top airlines. Additionally, our team rated the luggage on packaging and delivery, functionality and features, the comfort and ergonomic design of the handles, appearance and style and overall value. Each piece of luggage was rated and ranked out of a total score of 25. With thorough testing and recognition of notable differences, we’re confident in these seven best underseat luggage picks.

What is the best size for underseat luggage?

Here are the guidelines for underseat luggage on major airlines. Just keep in mind that size requirements may vary by the type of aircraft and some airlines have different size limits for carry-on bags versus underseat luggage.

• Alaska Airlines : Alaska's carry-on size is 22 by 14 by 9 inches, including the wheels and handles. It also defines a personal item as, "a purse, briefcase or laptop bag ."
• American Airlines: Bags stored underneath the seat in front of you should not exceed 18 by 14 by 8 inches.
• Delta: Delta defines a personal item as, "a purse, laptop bag or item of similar size that will fit underneath the seat in front of you," and their maximum carry-on size is 22 by 14 by 9 inches, with no bag exceeding 45 linear inches combined. (Did you know Delta is one of the most pet-friendly airlines ?)
• Hawaiian Airlines: Carry-on bags should not exceed 9 by 14 by 22 inches or 45 linear inches, or weigh over 25 pounds. "The allotted personal item must be small enough to fit safely under the seat in front of you. Personal items are generally such things as a purse, briefcase, laptop computer, small backpack or similar piece. In each case, it must fit safely under the seat in front of you," they explain.
• JetBlue: Carry-on bags should not exceed 22 by 14 by 9 inches, but underseat personal items can't be bigger than 17 by 13 by 8 inches.
• United Airlines: United limits underseat luggage to 9 by 10 by 17 inches.
• Southwest Airlines: Personal items must fit in the 16.25- by 13.5- by 8-inch space underneath the seat in front of you.
• Spirit Airlines: Spirit allows personal items up to 18 by 14 by 8 inches, including handles and wheels.

Can you have overhead and underseat luggage?

"Typically, you can have overhead and underseat luggage," says Bodge. However, it depends on the size of the bag, the restrictions of the specific airline you are flying and whether you can have both overhead and underseat luggage. In many cases, a carry-on bag is overhead luggage and an underseat bag is a personal item that fits under the seat in front of you.

How heavy can underseat luggage or bag be?

Weight restrictions for carry-on luggage vary. Some airlines, including American and Delta, don't even have any for domestic and even most international travel. However, some budget airlines, including Frontier, require carry-ons to weigh 35 pounds or less.

Does underseat luggage count as a personal item?

"An underseat bag is considered to be a personal item," says Bodge. However, it will ultimately depend on the carrier and size of the bags.

• Amber Rose Powers , a travel advisor at Fora , a travel agency
• Trae Bodge, smart shopping expert at TrueTrae

Additional reporting contributed by  Leah Groth , Reader's Digest writer.

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