Top 10 Expert Tips for Maximizing Luggage Space
Zip it shut, then add more
Closing your suitcase will compress everything inside, giving you more room to squeeze in last-minute items. Open it up and search for spots between other belongings or in corners.
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Pick the right order
Start by packing your heavier clothing items such as jeans, then layer thinner shirts on top of them to make it easier to force your suitcase closed. Plus, leaving more delicate items near the top will keep the weight of bulkier clothes from squashing them and forming wrinkles. Here’s how to pack a suitcase in 30 minutes or less.
Stick with one color palette
Pick one color family for all the clothes you pack. You can go for neutrals, pastels, or brights based on your style, but keeping with a theme will give you the freedom to mix and match tops and bottoms without clashing. You’ll be able to pack fewer clothes because you won’t have to worry that your pants are all wrong for the shirts you took.
Make the best of shoes
Storing shoes on their sides will cut down on the space they take up. But before you put them in your luggage, take advantage of the room inside time. Fill them with socks, underwear, or ties to make sure you don’t waste an inch.
Leave full makeup containers at home
Bulky makeup bottles and palettes can take up precious space and weigh your suitcase down, and you’ll only use a small portion on your trip. Pour a bit of your foundation and face creams into a clean contact case to save space. Also try covering cotton swabs in eye shadow, then storing them in a plastic bag to avoid taking a whole pallet.
Wear layers
Chunky clothing items like sweatshirts and sneakers take up too much space in your luggage. Leave room for other outfits by wearing the bulkier items as you travel. You can always remove pieces en route, and you might find you need the extra layer on a chilly plane anyway. Here are 14 other items you’ll always regret packing.
Cut down on jackets
Jackets can be among the bulkiest items in your luggage, but even in the summer, you might find yourself shivering at night without one. Replace your usual zip-up with a scarf or shawl, which will roll up nicely and can be stuffed into a smaller space.
Choose the right luggage
An expandable suitcase will help you make more room for your belongings. Opt for one with soft sides (or a duffel bag) over a hard one so that you can reshape it to maximize space. Here are 8 luggage secrets only airport baggage handlers know.
Roll your clothing
Clothes will take up way less space when rolled than when folded. Bonus: If you’re careful to keep clothing smooth while rolling, you won’t end up with any sloppy-looking creases.
Leave belts flat
Rather than rolling up your belts, lay them along the edge of your suitcase. They’ll take up practically no space. Before you head out, learn the 16 air travel mistakes you need to stop making.
