How to Pack a Suitcase (2024)

FAQs

What is the 5 4 3 2 1 packing method? ›

Its version of the 5-4-3-2-1 method includes "five tops, four bottoms, three accessories, two shoes (a practical pair and a nice pair), and one swimsuit," though like the Times this formula allows the wiggle room to swap out accessories based on your destination and type of travel.

Instead of rolling, neatly wrap smaller clothing items inside of larger ones to create a bundle. This is a good method if you're traveling with a suitcase or a flat-laying bag. This method also serves as an easy way to organize pre-planned outfits.

Pack bulky items like shoes and personal care items on one side and clothing on the other. First, pack clothing that tends to wrinkle on the zippered side.

“We find that rolling is the best space-saving method,” they wrote. “Clothes stack much easier when rolled, and if rolled tightly, creases are also avoidable.” We can't guarantee you'll be 100% wrinkle-free—not even the combination of rolling clothes and using packing cubes can live up to that promise.

Start with the longest pieces first, placing them in the bottom of the suitcase with the ends hanging over the sides of the case. Then place smaller items on top of those. Keep layering until you've packed everything you need.

The 333 method is simple: Pack three tops, three bottoms, and three pairs of shoes, then mix and match for at least nine different outfits or 27 different looks if you're counting the various shoe options, too.

Consider the 1-2-3-4-5-6 Rule

One general guideline is to pack one hat, two pairs of shoes, three bottoms, four tops (short or long-sleeve or outer layer), five pairs of socks, six pairs of underwear. This should be enough to last you for two weeks.

Place the shoes in the main compartment at the bottom of your luggage, where the wheels are. If you are using a hard sided case, distribute the shoes evenly between both compartments.

Always take a large plastic bag with a drawstring top with you when you travel. You can either just stuff the dirty clothes in that plastic bag or carefully fold them and place them in the bag. They do take up less room if folded.

Think of the dimensions of your suitcase and where you should pack your items. You'll put your main clothes on the non-roller side. Place your trousers at the bottom and stack them on top of each other in alternating directions. Fold or roll tops so they're thin and compact and can fit into small spaces.

Does it take up less space to fold or roll clothes? ›

Rolling your clothes in your suitcase will generally save space. This is because it squeezes air from between folds and means the most of available space is used. If done correctly, rolling can also ensure less wrinkles in your clothes.

Rolling your clothes won't make them weigh less, so they won't make your luggage lighter. However, it can save space, allowing you to pack much more in your suitcase, which means carrying fewer pieces of luggage and ultimately reducing your load.

The Rolling Method

Rolling clothing tightly prevents wrinkles while allowing you to maximize space in your luggage. To roll clothes for travel, fold along the seams and smooth out any wrinkles, then roll as tightly as possible without making any hard creases.