Master the Art of Packing: Expert Techniques from 'How to Pack for Any Trip'
Packing efficiently is an essential skill for every traveler. Whether you're wrestling with an overstuffed suitcase or refining your routine, these proven methods from our book How to Pack for Any Trip will elevate you to pro status.
Method: Rolling
Seasoned travelers favor the rolling method for its space-saving and wrinkle-resistant benefits, mimicking techniques used by frequent flyers.
For coats, jackets, T-shirts, sweaters, shirts, blouses, and dresses:
- Step 1: Hold the garment front-facing, pinch the shoulders midway between thumb and forefinger, and bring other fingers forward. Flip hood back if present.
- Step 2: Twist wrists inward to fold sleeves back, aligning outer edges.
- Step 3: Lay flat front-down and fold in half, neck to hem.
- Step 4: Shape into a neat rectangle.
- Step 5: Roll tightly from top to bottom.
For pants, shorts, tube dresses, or straight skirts: Fold in half along seams and roll tightly to the hem.
Method: Tetris-Style
Ideal for puzzle enthusiasts, this approach treats packing like a game. Combine rolled or folded items of varying shapes to fill rows completely, stacking vertically or horizontally. Note: Best for destinations where you can fully unpack—not suited for backpackers.
Method: Bottom-Heavy
Regardless of style, place heavy items like shoes, toiletries, electronics, and books at the bottom for balance and fewer creases. Prioritize accessibility: Pack coats near the top for variable weather.
Method: Bundling
A popular YouTube technique for wrinkle-free packing, requiring patience for optimal results.
- Step 1: Lay jacket flat, collar down, arms out.
- Step 2: Place long-sleeved shirt at 180 degrees, collar up, arms out; position collar halfway down jacket to form the core.
- Step 3: Layer garments from most to least tailored, alternating directions.
- Step 4: Fold pants/shorts vertically and align along shirt arms, alternating directions.
- Step 5: Build the bundle outward.
- Step 6: Place underwear in the core; wrap T-shirt sleeves-first, then body. Continue wrapping all items smoothly into one bundle.
Method: Stuffing
For last-minute packers, this chaotic, no-rules approach is quick but prone to wrinkles and disorganization.
- Step 1: Toss items in freely—anything goes.
Method: Creating Compartments
Perfect for organized travelers, this nested system maximizes efficiency.
Invest in packing cubes, pods, or bags from retailers like Muji or IKEA. Use color-coding for easy access. Specialized items include bra cases, jewelry rolls, and shoe bags.
DIY options: Use makeup bags for delicates, resealable bags for cables/plugs, film canisters or glasses cases for jewelry and coins.
