How to Pack a Suitcase Properly

Imagine showing up at your company's business meeting in a semi-wrinkled suit because your luggage just showed up. If you had properly packed your suitcase, your clothes would have been wrinkle free saving you from embarrassment. Follow these steps to pack your suitcase properly.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Suitcase
• Clothes
• Shoes
• Belts
• Toiletries

Packing a Suitcase Properly

1. First, the best place to do this is on your bed. This will minimize the amount of times that you have to bend over and you can lay all of the items that you wish to pack next to the suitcase. So get out your suitcase and lay it on the bed. Open it up as shown in the picture above.

2. Next, gather everything that you need to pack into this suitcase (including toiletries, shoes, clothes) and place it out on your bed so that you can see each item.

3. Then, for the most wrinkle free clothing, choose items that are knit material made out of cotton or wool. Cotton and wool really resist wrinkling and tend to look good after a few wears.

4. Next, roll your soft garments such as underwear, t-shirts or knit shirts and jeans. These items really resist wrinkling and will definitely not wrinkle when rolled. Now the stiffer items, such as anything dry cleaned or starched should be carefully folded.

5. Then, line the bottom of the suitcase with all of the rolled items. This acts as a layer of protection for everything else.

6. Next, place all of the folded items on top of the rolled clothing. Start with your skirts or pants because they are longest and stack them on top of each other alternating the waistbands at each end. Then place the shorter items such as shirts inside the suitcase alternating the collars at each end. Doing this insures that there will not be an excess of material on either side and it balances out your suitcase.

7. Finally, place the items that you will need first on top. This includes an outfit, your toiletries and pajamas or swimsuit. You should also put your shoes along the side of the suitcase and place any rolled up belts in the open spaces.

Tips & Warnings

• It is always a good idea to reduce the amount of items that you are bringing on a trip. Do this before the suitcase is packed and while the items are laying out on your bed.
• Stuff your shoes with items such as socks, sunglasses, chargers and any other little items that will fit well.
• Consider shrinking or using a Space Bag for your dirty laundry. Reducing your dirty laundry as much as possible will leave a little more room for those souvenirs.
• Make certain to wrap fragile or breakable items within your clothing and place it in the center of your suitcase. This will protect the item.
• Never pack any valuable items such as cameras or jewelry in your suitcase. Wear your jewelry and keep your camera in your carry-on bag.
• Try not to bring too many pairs of shoes on your trip. Bring a pair of work shoes and a pair of casual shoes.