As a frequent traveler, packing can be one of the most stressful parts of any trip. No matter how many times you’ve done it before, fitting everything you need into a suitcase while still meeting airline weight limits is never easy.
The good news? There are some incredibly clever travel packing hacks for active packaging that can help make the process smoother. These tips maximize space, minimize wrinkles, and get you through security faster. Read on for 9 genius travel packing hacks every frequent traveler should know.
1. Roll, Don’t Fold
Rolling clothes is one of the most basic packing hacks out there, but it truly optimizes suitcase space. Rather than stacking flat folded items on top of each other, tightly roll clothes lengthwise. This allows you to fit far more into a small space.
- For the neatest roll, lay clothing items face down and fold the sleeves in first before tightly rolling from bottom to top.
- Rolled items take up less surface area and won’t come unpacked as easily as folded clothes.
- Works best for items like t-shirts, pants, dresses and suits. Undergarments and socks can still be folded.
2. Use Packing Cubes
Revolutionize your suitcase with packing cubes – small zippered organizers that compartmentalize clothing, shoes and accessories.
- Packing cubes compress clothes to save space and make it easy to separate clean/dirty items.
- Opt for soft-sided cubes rather than rigid boxes to maximize packability.
- Designate different cubes for specific item types or outfits. Labeled cubes help you quickly find what you need.
- Cubes protect delicate items and contain spills or messes.
3. Wear Bulkiest Items | Travel Packing Hacks
Make the most of your packing space by wearing large and bulky items rather than packing them.
- Wear your jacket, hat, and bulky shoes/boots when boarding the plane. Just be sure to dress in layers you can remove.
- Put on your heaviest jewelry so you don’t have to pack it.
- Traveling in winter? Wear your sweaters, scarves and gloves.
4. Stuff Shoes
Pack your shoes efficiently and keep their shape by stuffing them with items.
- Soften shoes by stuffing them with socks or undergarments. This prevents creasing.
- Insert folded belts or scarves into shoes to maximize space.
- If bringing heels, stuff with bagged items to hold their shape.
- Place shoe stuffers vertically or horizontally to best fit the shape of your bag.
5. Roll Belts and Scarves | Travel Packing Hacks
Belts and scarves can take up a surprising amount of room. Solve this by rolling them up.
- Carefully roll long scarves from end-to-end into a tight bundle.
- Wrap belts around itself until completely rolled.
- Secure each roll with a hair tie or ribbon to prevent unrolling.
- These rolls can then be tucked into shoes, corners of your suitcase, or inside packing cubes.
6. Use Compression Bags
Compression bags are luggage space saviors. Simply place items inside, seal the bag, and roll it to compress contents.
- Works well for bulky items like sweaters, jackets, pillows and blankets. Compresses to take up half the space!
- Opt for compression cubes to organize clothing by outfit or type.
- Some bags come with vacuum-seal options for max compression.
- Compress bags before placing in luggage to optimize space.
7. Pack Liquids Wisely | Travel Packing Hacks
The key to packing liquids? Pack them last and close to the top. This prevents leaks from ruining other items.
- Place toiletries, cosmetics, and bathroom supplies in a waterproof bag or pouch. This contains any leaks or spills.
- Use travel-size and multi-use products to minimize liquids. Refillable bottles are great.
- Pack liquids vertically and surrounded by clothing for extra leakage protection.
- Limit liquids in carry-on. Opt for checked bag when possible for larger volumes.
8. Roll Clothes Around Shoes
Packing both clothes and shoes? Use an old packing trick to save space – wrap soft clothing items around hard-soled shoes.
- Wrap rolled socks and undergarments around and inside each shoe. This cushions shoes and optimizes small spaces.
- Place small accessories like pocket notebooks or charging cords into shoes before wrapping clothes around them.
- Using compression bags or cubes? Wrap rolled clothing bundles around stacked shoe pairs to hold their shape.
9. Use Dryer Sheets | Travel Packing Hacks
Dryer sheets aren’t just for the laundry room! These aromatic sheets can keep clothes fresh and prevent wrinkles.
- Place dryer sheets between folded clothing items and inside shoes. This adds a light scent.
- For non-fragranced option, use tissue paper instead.
- Sheet fibers help absorb moisture and prevent mildew smells in luggage.
- Dryer sheets also reduce static, helping clothes keep their shape.
Bonus Hack: Ditch the Checked Bag
Want the ultimate travel packing hack? Avoid checking bags altogether by becoming a carry-on pro.
Benefits of carry-on only:
- Speed through airports without waiting at baggage claim
- Prevent lost luggage scenarios
- Easier mobility with just 1 bag
- Save on checked bag fees
Tips for carry-on only:
- Strictly limit liquids and go container-free when possible
- Compress using methods above and utilize every inch of space
- Wear bulky clothes and shoes
- If needed, wear a coat and put extras in pockets
- Carry a small personal item like a purse, backpack or laptop bag
Packing for frequent travel doesn’t have to be a chore. With these space-saving, wrinkle-reducing and bag-optimizing travel packing hacks, you can breeze through travel day with room to spare. Use these tips above to change your packing game and start maximizing your luggage.