If you think packing is a pain, you’re probably going about it the wrong way. For an organized traveler, the packing process is a great way to prepare for your trip and plan the great times just ahead. There are a number of methods you can use to make packing a bit easier. The key is to take the time to learn how to pack properly before you dive into the process. Here’s a few travel hacks to make packing easier for your next trip.
Most people fold their clothing so that it lies flat, but rolling your clothing frees up extra space in your bag and allows you to fit more. In addition to compressing your clothes, rolling can also help to eliminate the winkles and lines created by typical folding practices. When you unpack, you’re clothes are ready to wear with no need to break out the ironing board.
If you’re going on a business trip and have limited time to unpack, keep the hangers in your clothing. If you use this method, make sure to fold your clothing into squares and only fold them over once or twice. When you arrive, simply pull out your clothes by the hanger, place them in the closet and you’re ready to go. You’ll save time and keep things relatively crisper than they would be otherwise.
You can carry a lot of clothes and still save space if you use the right storage bags. Choose bags with vacuum suction to compress your clothing and free up extra space in your luggage. Ideal for bulky clothes like sweaters and coats, you can save a ton of room in your suitcase. If you’re heading on a hiking or ski trip with extra gear, using shrinking and compression bags is a great way to give yourself some extra space and keep things manageable.
Nothing’s worse than unpacking your suitcase to find your toiletries have leaked while you were en route to your destination. Use a proper toiletry kit with reusable bottles to keep your toiletries sealed and the rest of your luggage protected from leaks.
You’ll likely need an extra pair of shoes or two on your trip. If you want to avoid your soles marking up your clothes, keep them separate from the rest of your items at the bottom of the suitcase, ideally in their own internal travel shoe bag. Shoe bags are a must for any frequent traveler and worth the investment.
Follow these TravelSmith packing tips and you’ll have more space in your bag, better organization, and arrive with your clothes ready to go! Ready to pack your bags? Download our free packing checklist to make sure you don’t forget any essentials.
