How to Pack a Suitcase

Packing a suitcase is a strategic exercise in maximizing space and minimizing wrinkles. You might already have a favorite packing system, but here are a few more tips and tricks to utilize all of your luggage space efficiently.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Plastic Storage Bags
• Toiletries
• Toiletry Bags
• Garment Bags
• Carry-on Bags
• Luggage Sets

Pack Clothing

1. Remember this order of operations: shirts on the bottom, then dresses (if applicable), then pants.

2. Stack tops, unfolded, by placing wrinkle-prone tops toward the bottom of a pile and less easily wrinkled ones toward the top.

3. Fold the sleeves in toward the shirts' torsos.

4. Fold the shirts in half from the bottom. You now have a rectangular bundle of shirts; place it in your suitcase.

5. Drape long dresses in the suitcase so that the ends hang over the sides.

6. Place pants and skirts on a flat surface; fold each in half lengthwise.

7. Stack pants and skirts on top of one another, with easily wrinkled ones on the bottom and sturdier ones, such as jeans, on top. Fold the stack over, so that its length is halved.

8. Place your stack of pants and skirts on top of the dresses, then fold the ends of the dresses over the pants and skirts.

Pack Accessories

9. Roll ties loosely.

10. Stuff socks in shoes. Pack underwear in mesh laundry bags or side pockets to save space.

11. Arrange each pair of shoes so that the heel of one aligns with the toe of the other.

12. Wrap pairs of shoes in separate plastic bags, and place them along the border of your suitcase.

13. Protect clothes from leaks by placing toiletries in a plastic bag.

14. Pack essential toiletries in a carry-on bag. Include your toothbrush, toothpaste, makeup, medication and other important items.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid packing money, jewelry, travel documents, medication, keys and other valuables in your suitcase. Carry these items with you.

[sstew9]

on 5/22/2009 When flying, prep your toiletries. Loosen the cap of each container, squeeze a little air out, then re-tighten container. This allows the contents to expand in-flight (due to lower atmospheric pressure) without springing a leak.

[mattwnorris]

on 3/29/2009 This post has links to two excellent packing methods that keep your suitcase light and your clothes wrinkle-free. http://travelsimplicity.blogspot.com/2009/03/how-to-pack-for-trip-traveling-light.html

[Tef-Tef]

on 10/25/2008 Check website : www.expan-zion.net to find out how a new patented system will help you to pack your luggages !

[MundoTraveler]

on 5/7/2008 Not sure if anyone else has seen these - but a company called Edwards Luggage is starting to show packing demonstrations of cool packing accessories. Go to:
http://www.edwardsluggage.com/store/Product_Videos___All_Videos_p_1?Args=

on 9/9/2006 Always pack a spare pair of underwear in your hand luggage in case your suitcase does not arrive at baggage claims!