How to Pack a Suitcase like a Pro

Packing cubes are a game-changer for keeping your suitcase organized and saving space. By packing similar things together (one cube for shirts, one for bottoms, etc.), and using color-coded cubes for easy identification, you'll feel in control of your packing.

Packing for a trip, whether for a quick weekend getaway or a longer escape, can be daunting. You don’t want wrinkles, you have different climates to pack for, shoes for daytime, shoes for nighttime – overall, there are many elements to consider.

With a few practical pro tips from our travel experts and some preparation, we’ll transform your packing game in no time. From maximizing space to keeping clothes wrinkle-free, our go-to guide on how to pack a suitcase is filled with top tips, sure to make for a successful trip.

11 game-changing tips for packing a suitcase

1. Always use a packing checklist

Creating a comprehensive packing checklist is essential for ensuring you remember all important items when preparing for your trip. It also saves you time when packing and allows you to take inventory beforehand. Whether you handwrite it on paper or create a digital list, checklists are beneficial for easy preparation. Create family and individual lists for a better overview.

2. Plan your outfits strategically

This step is crucial for efficient packing and ensuring you have everything you need without overpacking. Start the packing process by making separate piles. This makes it easy to see everything you pack to coordinate outfits and eliminate items. It’s also a good idea to check the weather at your destination, so you can be prepared and pack accordingly. Choose versatile items to mix and match, which will help keep your bag light and give you more outfit choices.

3. Master the art of folding and rolling

Most people tend to fold clothes and stuff in as much as they can as long as it zips. While that may work for some, others may want to up their game by rolling their clothes. Incorporating both styles into your packing routine helps you maximize space, stay organized, and keep clothes wrinkle-free.

Here are a few folding tips to master:

• Fold structured clothing: Folding is the most common practice for packers, but takes up the most space. If you must fold, try stacking each folded item vertically like a file cabinet so you can see your items without pulling everything out. Start with heavier items like jeans and sweaters at the bottom, then add lighter items like t-shirts and underwear on top.

• The "burrito method" for wrinkle-free packing: The burrito method is excellent for packing wrinkle-prone items like dress shirts and blazers. Here's how to do it:

1. Lay your garment flat

2. Fold the sleeves inward

3. Roll tightly from the bottom up

4. Secure with a rubber band or packing cube

• Roll softer items: Rolling works wonders for softer, more pliable clothing. It helps utilize space and keeps clothes wrinkle-free. Rolling also makes it easy to see clothing options without messing up your clothes. It’s also simple to do – just lay out the garment on a flat surface, fold it as usual and roll it like a towel.

Here's a comprehensive breakdown for deciding if you should roll or fold your clothes:

4. Use compression or vacuum bags for bulky items

Compression or vacuum bags are your secret weapon for packing bulky items like jackets, sweaters, and blankets. Compression bags help get rid of excess air and vacuum bags compress your garments airtight. It's also great for puffer jackets, sweaters, and winter items. You’ll be surprised to see how flat and small your things can get when compression is used.

5. Use packing cubes for organization

Packing cubes are a game-changer for keeping your suitcase organized and saving space. By packing similar things together (one cube for shirts, one for bottoms, etc.) and using color-coded cubes for easy identification, you'll feel in control of your packing. Pack larger cubes on the bottom with smaller cubes on top. You can even use cubes for your carry-on, which keeps your important documents together and your snacks easily accessible when traveling.

6. Fill your shoes

Don't let the space inside your shoes go to waste. Use it to pack small items like socks, jewelry, scarves, or souvenirs. This clever trick saves space and helps your shoes maintain their shape during transit.

7. Organize toiletries efficiently

Organizing your toiletries efficiently is crucial for a hassle-free travel experience. The best way to conquer that is to have a pre-packed toiletries bag that you use just for travel. Choose one with many pockets and clear compartments. Use travel-sized products that save space, weigh less, and comply with airline regulations. Most hotels provide basic toiletries, so leave body wash, shampoo, lotion, and hairdryers at home.

8. Pack liquids separately for easy access

If you’re packing any liquid, even in your checked bag, keep them separate in a sealed bag to prevent leakage on your clothes. If you’re flying and using a carry-on, you can streamline the security process and breeze through checkpoints by keeping your liquids separate and on top for easy access. If possible, carry them in your personal bag. Follow the TSA’s 3-1-1 rule, which states that all liquids, pastes, and gels must be under 3.4 oz (100 ml) and in quart-sized clear sealable bags.

9. Pack a bag for laundry

When you’re at home, your dirty clothes go in the hamper. Why should your luggage be any different? Keep a light grocery bag in your purse or luggage for all your laundry while traveling to keep them separate. The best part is when you are home and unpacking, your laundry bag goes right in the wash.

Pro tip: place a few fabric softer sheets in your luggage to keep your clothing smelling fresh.

10. Follow the 54321, 123456 or 3-3-3 packing methods

To avoid overpacking, you can follow these three tricks:

1. For a short trip, follow the 123456 method (1 sweatshirt, 2 pairs of shoes, 3 pairs of pants or skirts, 4 shirts, 5 pairs of socks, and 6 pairs of underwear).
2. For longer trips, follow the 54321 method (5 tops, 4 bottoms, 3 pairs of shoes, 2 accessories, 1 dressy outfit). If you’re traveling for more than a week, you can alter the numbers by one and mix and match your outfits.
3. For a capsule wardrobe, follow the 3-3-3 packing rule and limit your packing list to 3 tops, 3 bottoms, and 3 pairs of shoes

Of course, always pack extra underwear and weather or destination-specific items like bathing suits or ski clothes.

11. Make the most of your checked suitcase and carry-on bag

Here are some tips to make sure you’ve packed your checked suitcase and carry-on bag as strategically as possible:

Top tip: always remember to check your airline's specific regulations for both checked and carry-on luggage to avoid any issues at the airport.

4 common packing mistakes to avoid

To make packing and your travel experience smoother, there are a few common packing mistakes to avoid for a more enjoyable trip.

1. Leave room for souvenirs

If you stuff your suitcase to the brim you won’t have space for those special gifts you pick up along the way. A good rule of thumb is to leave about 20% of your suitcase empty for souvenirs. If that isn’t feasible, try using an expandable tote bag as your personal item, which easily expands for extra storage.

2. Weigh your luggage before leaving

Weighing your suitcase at home can help you avoid costly overweight baggage fees. If you're close to the weight limit, consider wearing your heaviest items or moving them to your carry-on. If you have a scale at home, weigh yourself and step off and back on while carrying your luggage. Subtract the weight with the luggage from your body weight.

3. Don't overpack

It’s easier said than done, but remember you have to unpack everything when you get home. Avoid the urge to overpack by sticking to your packing list and choosing versatile, mixed-and-matched clothing. If you have already overpacked, start eliminating the extras. Most destinations have convenience stores if something is needed. Plus, if you’re staying at a hotel, they usually supply bath amenities and a hairdryer.

4. Avoid packing prohibited items

Before packing, familiarize yourself with the airline's and destination country's regulations. Here's a quick list of items that are usually not allowed on a plane to double-check:

• Liquids over 3.4 oz in carry-on bags
• Sharp objects or tools
• Flammable items
• Certain foods or plants
• Compressed gasses
• Beverages containing over 70% alcohol (over 140 proof) in carry-on bags
• Firearms
• Fireworks
• Live animals
• Drugs

Putting your packing into practice

Packing your suitcase like a pro is an art form that will eventually become second nature for any traveler. Simple strategies like creating a packing checklist (and sticking to it), planning your outfits strategically and learning how to fold or roll your luggage properly will ensure you make the most of every inch without overpacking. Efficient packing can save you time at the airport and make for a less stressful trip. Whether packing a carry-on or checked-in bag, a little preparation, and clever space-saving methods will transform you into a savvy traveler.