While at first, it may seem like a straightforward, simple task, how to pack a suitcase can often be somewhat of an art form! According to recent surveys, around 60% of U.S. citizens aren’t packing their suitcases efficiently enough, and we’re here to help change that, helping you enjoy a stress-free vacation, from the moment you start packing!
Whether you’re spending a summer backpacking in Asia, taking a speedy weekend jaunt to Paris, or embarking on a 6-month long solo adventure, packing effectively can help you save time, space, money, and stress.
Consider Your Trip
There are several factors you need to consider before you begin the packing process, for example, your intended mode of transport, your destination, and how long you plan to stay.
If you’re traveling by plane, you’ll need to strictly adhere to TSA guidelines during the packing process, however, if you’re traveling by car or train, there’s a lot more flexibility in what you’re able to pack in your luggage, including laptops, batteries, and liquids.
You’ll also want to factor in the duration of your trip. A short stay may only require a carry-on, but extended stays can require careful planning to ensure you’ve got everything you’ll need.
Your destination is perhaps one of the most important factors though, so let’s look at this in more detail.
Pack According to Your Season
No matter where you plan on traveling to, it’s important to pack according to seasonal activities, and with the weather forecast in mind.
What to Pack For Summer Vacations
When packing for a summer vacation to a warm destination (whether it’s a beach getaway or a city break), you’ll want to ensure you pack accordingly. Include items like lightweight clothes, swimsuits, sandals, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a wide-brimmed hat.
We recommend sticking to breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen to ensure you’re comfortable during your getaway!
What to Pack For Winter Vacations
Whether you’re traveling for a skiing trip, a cozy cabin stay, or simply to a city known for colder temperatures, some items we recommend packing are sweaters, thermal layers, a thick jacket, boots (with good grip), gloves, a warm hat, and a scarf.
Since many of these items will be quite large, we recommend using compression bags to save space for bulky items and wearing heavier items during the journey to save on suitcase weight.
What to Pack for Multi-Climate Destinations
If you’re heading off on a multi-destination trip, it’s important to keep in mind that these destinations may have different climates. When traveling in Europe, or for a long American road trip, be sure to include lots of layers, and tank tops that can be used as under-garments when in cold destinations.
Also Read: What to pack for Paris
5 Easy Suitcase Packing Hacks Before Your Next Trip
There are lots of different methods and hacks for packing a suitcase appropriately. Which of these is best can vary depending on the length of your stay and what items you need to pack. Let’s take a look at some of the best hacks, methods, and first-time flying tips for packing.
1. The Rolling Method
This is the hack I usually like to use. It involves tightly rolling your clothing in order to maximize suitcase space and minimize wrinkles. It’s a great way to pack a suitcase that requires a lot of clothes.
2. The Wrapping Method
A great option if you’ll have an iron at your accommodation and/or if you’re planning on taking a handful of bulkier items, such as shoes and handbags. Simply wrap clothes around a core (such as a pair of shoes) to help distribute weight evenly throughout the case.
3. The Bundling Method
A great method for shorter trips, this hack involves bundling outfits together in layers. This can help prevent creases, and also helps organize your outfits, making it easier if you don’t have coat hangers in your accommodation, or if you’ll need to get changed in a hurry at any point.
4. The Packing Cube Method
If you’re a beginner, then this is the hack for you! Packing cubes can be purchased for cheap, and you can use these to organize your clothes and belongings by category.
5. The Compression Pack Method
The best option for very long stays (6 months+) or winter travel. Use Vacuum-seal bags or compression cubes to reduce the size of bulky items such as thick jackets, towels, or sweaters.
Essential Items of Clothing to Pack for Your Trip
The thought of what you need to pack can be overwhelming no matter where you’re traveling to, so let’s take a look at what items you must not forget!
1. Clothing
Stick to versatile items that can be mixed and matched, ensuring you pack layers no matter the season. Be sure to bring at least one backup outfit in case anything breaks or gets stained during the trip.
2. Shoes
Pack comfortable walking shoes, including sandals or boots depending on your destination. One pair of dress shoes is usually enough. You can use plastic bags or shower caps to cover the soles in order to keep your clothes clean.
3. Undergarments
Plan for one set per day, plus two spares in case of emergency (flight cancellations, delays leaving, etc.) If taking a checked-in suitcase, spares should be kept in your carry-on. For longer trips, bring undergarments made from quick-drying fabrics that can be washed easily.
4. Outerwear
Ensure you bring a light jacket for summer trips, and a heavy coat for winter trips.
How to Pack Accessories and Beauty Products
Use a small pouch for storing delicate wearable accessories such as jewelry, watches, and sunglasses.
Other small items and travel accessories, such as chargers, adapters, and power banks should be kept together in a zippered organizer. Be sure these items are in a place that is easy to access, should you need to charge your phone in an airport.
Liquids should be packaged into travel-size containers (less than 100ml) and if packing these in a carry-on, these should be packed in a clear TSA-approved back, and stored in an easy-to-access location to make passing through security checkpoints simpler.
By following these travel tips for beginners and helpful hacks and methods, you’ll find that packing any kind of suitcase really isn’t all that stressful once you know what you’re doing. Your suitcase will be well-organized, contain everything you’ll need, and be the best option for the kind of trip you plan on taking.
Remember that preparation is key, so be sure to use a checklist to ensure you stay organized and don’t forget anything you’ll need for your trip!
FAQ’s
This truly comes down to personal choice, but as an avid traveler, I find that The Rolling Method is the best option for maximizing space, and ensuring that your clothes don’t wrinkle. It works best when packing lightweight clothes.
Using the Packing Cube Method, or packing bulky items into compression bags can help reduce bulk and save on space, ensuring all of your clothing fits!
Essential items for your packing or backpacking checklist include a power bank, a portable first aid kit, maps, and a personal safety alarm. These are all considered solo travel essentials no matter where you’re visiting as solo travelers need to be extra prepared.
Keep in mind that you’re packing for the destination and trip primarily, rather than the flight. But since a lot of short flights don’t have in-flight entertainment, we recommend putting a few things in your carry-on to keep you entertained, such as magazines, snacks, and a refillable water bottle.
As we briefly mentioned before, shoe soles should be covered to prevent dirt from getting onto your clothes. Place them inside bags or cover them with shower caps to keep your clothes clean. Another great tip for packing shoes is to fill them with smaller items, such as socks, underwear, or accessories.