How to Pack a Suitcase

Learning how to pack a suitcase efficiently and effectively is a rite of passage. The hasty and messy habits we’ve leaned on for years tend to stop serving us once we realize the benefits a well-packed bag can have on our travels – and our sanity.

Just think of how good it could be. No more scrounging through wrinkled, balled up clothes, trying to keep soiled items away from fresh pieces, and hoping against hope that any toiletries stay in their respective containers instead of spilling all over – and even ruining – everything else. Instead, envision yourself enjoying a clean and orderly suitcase with a place for each piece and each piece in its place. 

Today, we’re here to teach you how to turn that vision into a reality that you can return to throughout your life. And let us assure you: Figuring out how to pack a suitcase well (and remember everything you wanted to bring) is not overly complicated, but it is a skill and a bit of a science. Keep scrolling for expert advice on packing well in general, as well as insight into specialized situations like how to pack a suit in a suitcase.

10 Packing Tips to Make Your Next Trip a Breeze

1. Think about how you’ll travel.

Before you even pull your bags out of your basement or self-storage unit, take a moment to think through all the ways you’ll travel. Will you be flying or driving? Checking a bag or carrying on? Also, consider how far you’ll have to walk with your luggage, and what those conditions will look like.

2. Think about what you’ll be doing on your trip.

Next give some thought as to what you’ll be doing and the temperature in which you’ll be doing it. No need to pack high heel sandals for a trek through the Andes, after all. If you’re traveling for a wedding or another formal event, however, you’ll need to not just figure out how to correctly lay a suit or pack a dress in a suitcase but also make sure the bag you’re using is the right size and capacity for the items. As you might expect, shoving a three-piece in a duffel bag is not going to make for the best results.    

3. Familiarize yourself with any travel restrictions.

If you are flying, visit your airline’s website for specific information about luggage size and weight limitations and be sure to follow them. No one likes being surprised at the airport with an unexpected fee, and airlines have become extremely strict about what does or doesn’t “fly.” Additionally, check for any updates to TSA rules as well. There is nothing sadder than having to throw out expensive toiletries at the security line because they’re over the size limit. Ask us how we know.

4. Use the smallest size bag you can.

It’s human nature to stuff a suitcase to its limit, so be aware that the bigger the bag you choose – the more pieces you are going to pack. Aim for as petite a pack as possible. Remember that you can buy another bag at your destination, if necessary, to get your souvenirs home.

5. Follow the 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 rule.

The New York Times suggests using the 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 packing method for a weeklong trip: five pairs of socks and five pieces of underwear, four tops, three bottoms, two pairs of shoes, and one hat. It’s a great place to start and can easily be supplemented with items specific to your trip and planned activities like swimsuits, exercise gear, or formal wear.

6. Look at everything you want to pack together.

Make your bed and then lay out everything you are planning to bring on it to get a true sense of both the volume and variety of your chosen items. Do you really need three black tank tops or four pairs of shorts? Cut out anything and everything extra, even if that means you might have to do a bit of laundry in your hotel room at some point. Pro tip: pack soap leaves that take up very little room and easily dissolve in a sink or tub.

7. Invest in packing cubes.

For those of you forever struggling with how to pack a suitcase: the answer has been made clear. Packing cubes. These lightweight wonders not only maximize space by compressing items, but they also keep you tidy on the road. No more dumping out your bag on the floor to try to find your underwear. With packing cubes, everything is organized and at your fingertips. Don’t forget to pack an empty cube for dirty clothes.

8. Roll, roll, roll your clothes.

Even if you’re using packing cubes, you’re still going to want to roll your clothes as tightly as possible. Though Travel & Leisure might not completely agree, rolled clothes seem to attract less wrinkles than folded clothes, and let you really maximize space in your cubes, suitcase, or both. They also make it easier to take advantage of unused space. Rolled up t-shirt inside of a shoe? Don’t mind if we do.

9. Leave space for specialty items.

Now that garment bags seem to be a thing of the past, it can be hard to know how to pack a suit in a suitcase or carry-on. Luckily for all of us, Brooks Brothers put together a handy guide (with video) simplifying and summarizing the process. If you’re wondering how to pack a dress in a suitcase or carry-on, the good news is: it’s much simpler. Check out this blog from Who What Wear for easy-to-follow tips.

10. Pack toiletries last – and on top.

While organizing your suitcase, try to leave a hollow in the items at the top of the bag where you can snugly fit your toiletries case. Experts recommend keeping a case packed and ready to go with travel-sized favorites to make sure you don’t forget anything. Don’t forget to double-bag any liquid items to help prevent leaks, and always keep prescription medicine with you in a carry-on. 

Now that you know how to pack a suitcase, the next step is figuring out where to go and, if the trip is long enough, what to do with your household possessions while you’re gone. We might not be able to help you with the first part, but CubeSmart has guides on everything from storing a refrigerator to downsizing your home – and much more. Explore theStorage Space blog for all the advice you’ll ever need to clean, organize, pack, and optimize your living – and traveling – quarters.