How to Pack a Suitcase (2024)

Advertisem*nt

SKIP ADVERTIsem*nT

Supported by

SKIP ADVERTIsem*nT

You have a preview view of this article while we are checking your access. When we have confirmed access, the full article content will load.

Originally published on June 26, 2017

By Shivani Vora and Michelle Higgins

Illustrations by Julia Rothman

Packing may seem simple, but it is a science with rules that travelers often learn the hard way over thousands of miles on the road. Doing it strategically can be the difference between a harried vacation with countless detours to local drugstores and a streamlined one with everything you need at your fingertips. Here’s our shortcut to packing the right way: how to find the best suitcase, minimize your load, pack what you need on a beach trip or a business trip and cut down on wrinkles.

  • 6 Packing Tips
  • How to Pick a Suitcase
  • Packing Lists by Trip
  • Packing for a Family Trip
  • Any Questions?

6 Packing Tips

Follow these basic tips to pack efficiently and effectively for any trip.

Image

How to Pack a Suitcase (2)

1. The bigger your suitcase, the more you will put into it: The simplest way to avoid bringing too many things is to buy a hard-sided suitcase, no more than 22 inches tall (so it can work as a carry-on) with a structured shell so you can’t squeeze in any extras.

2. Do the clothing countdown: If you need a mantra to help streamline your wardrobe, use the 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 rule for a weeklong trip: Limit yourself to no more than five sets of socks and underwear, four tops, three bottoms, two pairs of shoes and one hat. The list should be adjusted to suit your needs. Throw in a swimsuit and exercise gear or a suit jacket and dress if you’ll need them.

Thank you for your patience while we verify access. If you are in Reader mode please exit andlog intoyour Times account, orsubscribefor all of The Times.

Thank you for your patience while we verify access.

Already a subscriber?Log in.

Want all of The Times?Subscribe.

Advertisem*nt

SKIP ADVERTIsem*nT

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.

What is the best way to pack a suitcase? ›

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.

How do I fit the most stuff in my suitcase? ›

Tightly roll items such as T-shirts, pajamas, casual pants and dresses to optimize suitcase space and avoid creasing. Roll heavy items (such as jeans) first and place at the bottom. Follow with thinner rolled items on top of those to make it easier to force your suitcase closed.

Does rolling clothes really save space in suitcase? ›

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.

What is the 333 packing rule? ›

The concept of this packing rule is that you choose three tops, three bottoms, and three pairs of shoes to create more than a dozen outfit looks that fit easily into your carry-on.

What is the 333 packing method? ›

What is the '333 packing' method? The concept is fairly simple: Choose three tops, three bottoms and three pairs of shoes to create different outfit combinations. The result is more than a dozen looks that fit easily in your carry-on luggage.

How do you pack a suitcase for dummies? ›

What is the 5-4-3-2-1 packing method? This method provides a structured, streamlined packing list, says Wirick. "It involves packing five tops, four bottoms, three accessories (such as scarves or belts), two pairs of shoes, and one outer layer (like a jacket or sweater)," she says.

What is the 311 rule? ›

You are allowed to bring a quart-sized bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes through the checkpoint. These are limited to 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per item. This is also known as the 3-1-1 liquids rule.

What is the 3 1 suitcase rule? ›

Each passenger may carry liquids, gels and aerosols in travel-size containers that are 3.4 ounces or100 milliliters. Each passenger is limited to one quart-size bag of liquids, gels and aerosols.

What goes in the zipper side of a suitcase? ›

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. Since it has a flat surface this will lessen wrinkles and the zip closure keeps clothing from shifting and falling out when you open the bag.

How do you distribute weight in a suitcase? ›

And it's super simple:
  1. Pack medium-weighted items and things to which you don't need quick access at the bottom of your pack. ...
  2. Heavier items go in the middle: think stuff like your computer, water bottle, and bicycle lock.
  3. Lighter items and things you want easily accessible go on top and in the outer pockets.
Nov 16, 2015

Does rolling your clothes make your suitcase lighter? ›

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.

What are the advantages of a rolling suitcase? ›

Advantages of Rolling Suitcases

They're easy to move and (literally) take the weight of traveling off your shoulders. This is especially helpful when transporting a heavy load. Rolling suitcases usually have tough exteriors made of extremely strong fabric or hard shells that are better at protecting fragile belongings.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Carmelo Roob

Last Updated:

Views: 5915

Rating: 4.4 / 5 (65 voted)

Reviews: 88% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Carmelo Roob

Birthday: 1995-01-09

Address: Apt. 915 481 Sipes Cliff, New Gonzalobury, CO 80176

Phone: +6773780339780

Job: Sales Executive

Hobby: Gaming, Jogging, Rugby, Video gaming, Handball, Ice skating, Web surfing

Introduction: My name is Carmelo Roob, I am a modern, handsome, delightful, comfortable, attractive, vast, good person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.