luggage packing for air travel

An official website of the United States government

Here’s how you know

Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ( Lock A locked padlock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

Travel Checklist

Before packing.

• 3.4 ounces or less per container
• 1 quart size, clear, plastic, zip top bag (all liquids must fit in bag)
• 1 bag per passenger
•   Review the prohibited items list for both carry-on and checked baggage.
• If purchasing a baggage lock, be sure to look for those that are TSA recognized.
• Tape a card with your name and contact information on your electronics.

When Packing

• Pack items in layers (shoes one layer, clothes one layer, electronics one layer, etc.)
• Firearms are only allowed in checked baggage and must be unloaded, placed in a locked, hard-sided container and declared to your airline.
• All fireworks contain explosive materials and are not permitted in checked or carry-on baggage.
• Do not pack items such as box cutters, utility knives, and razors in carry-on luggage. Razor blades intended for shaving that are enclosed in a safety cartridge in which the blade cannot be removed are permitted.
• Pack large electronics on top layer of carry-on for screening accessibility.
• Place your 3-1-1 bag with liquids, gels and aerosols in the front pocket of your carry-on for accessibility.
• If traveling with a pet, be sure to bring a leash so carriers can be properly screened.

Before Leaving for the Airport

• Give yourself enough time to arrive at the airport early.
• Wear easily removable shoes.
• Passengers with a disability or medical condition may call ahead to the TSA Cares toll free helpline at (855) 787-2227 .

Before Entering the Checkpoint

• Eligible passengers look for the TSA PreCheck® lane for expedited screening at participating airports.
• Have your  ID and boarding pass out for inspection.

In Standard Screening Lane

• Remove the 3-1-1 liquids bag and place it in the bin.
• Ensure pockets are empty (keys, tissues, currency, wallets, cell phones, etc.) and remove bulky jewelry (valuable items can be placed in carry-on).
• Remove your shoes and place them directly on the X-ray belt.
• Remove personal electronic devices larger than a cell phone from your carry-on bag and place them into a bin with nothing placed on or under them for X-ray screening. (E.g. laptops, tablets, e-readers and handheld game consoles.)
• Remember to check the bins and collect all belongings after going through screening.

Download PDF version

• PRO Courses Guides New Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade Sign In
• EDIT Edit this Article
• EXPLORE Tech Help Pro About Us Random Article Quizzes Request a New Article Community Dashboard This Or That Game Popular Categories Arts and Entertainment Artwork Books Movies Computers and Electronics Computers Phone Skills Technology Hacks Health Men's Health Mental Health Women's Health Relationships Dating Love Relationship Issues Hobbies and Crafts Crafts Drawing Games Education & Communication Communication Skills Personal Development Studying Personal Care and Style Fashion Hair Care Personal Hygiene Youth Personal Care School Stuff Dating All Categories Arts and Entertainment Finance and Business Home and Garden Relationship Quizzes Cars & Other Vehicles Food and Entertaining Personal Care and Style Sports and Fitness Computers and Electronics Health Pets and Animals Travel Education & Communication Hobbies and Crafts Philosophy and Religion Work World Family Life Holidays and Traditions Relationships Youth
• Browse Articles
• Learn Something New
• Quizzes Hot
• This Or That Game New
• Train Your Brain
• Explore More
• Support wikiHow
• About wikiHow
• Log in / Sign up
• Travel Packing

How to Pack for Air Travel

Last Updated: March 7, 2024 Approved

This article was co-authored by Allyson Edwards . Allyson Edwards graduated from Stanford University with a BA in International Relations. Afterwards, she went on to facilitate International partnerships with agencies in over twenty countries, and has consulted for companies in industries across education, fintech, and retail. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. This article received 49 testimonials and 100% of readers who voted found it helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 533,539 times.

If you've never or infrequently traveled by air, you may be confused and overwhelmed with what to pack. Guidelines seem to get more and more confusing all the time, and now there are sometimes fees to pay? If it's difficult to make sense of, you're not alone. Follow these steps to get it right every time, whether you are flying long, or short haul, for business or for pleasure, this one guide has it all.

Packing List

Packing Your Carry-On

• Double-check TSA guidelines before packing something in your carry-on. You don't want to have to throw anything away.
• Make sure to take all your medication and everything you need to be comfortable. Prescription and non-prescription medication are allowed. It’s easier to get extra liquids through security if they’re medically needed, like with saline solution.
• In order to cut down on the amount of clothes to pack, choose items that are interchangeable. Stick to a few items that all go together, rather than completely separate outfits. Use accessories to spice up an outfit. For example, scarves are small and easy to pack, and can be used as a scarf, headband, or even a belt.
• Take your swimsuit if you are traveling by air, put it within your vacation gear, especially if you are a woman. If your bags are lost when traveling by air, most items (such as shorts or T-shirts) can usually be purchased at your destination. However, if your bags are lost, swimsuits for women can be hard to shop for. If you do not have your swimsuit you may miss out on the beach, hot tub, or other vacation fun.

• For safety reasons, any electronic items with lithium ion batteries, including most laptops, smartphones, tablets, should be packed into your carry on instead of checked luggage whenever possible, per FAA recommendations. In addition, power banks and spare lithium ion batteries should always go into your carry on instead of checked luggage.
• Pack large electronics last, so they are easily accessible. You will not need to go digging around when time is of the essence.

• You will probably get bored on your flight, even if it is only half an hour, and having your electronics together lets you know where everything is so you can access your iPod, iPad, Kindle, or whatever else you need as quickly and easily as possible.
• The TSA requires electronics to be screened – when they are all in the same place and easy for the agents to see, you won’t be the one holding up the line at security.

• In an easily accessible pocket of your carry-on luggage, store your flight information: the airline, the flight number, your confirmation code, and the flight details. This comes in handy at the self-service check-in kiosks that so many airlines provide now at the airport.

• If you do bring toiletries, in the United States the 3-1-1 TSA regulations still applies. You can fill as many 3 oz bottles of toiletries (100 ml) as you want into ‘’one’’ quart-size plastic ziplock bag (limit one per flyer), but you have to take out the bag at security screening. [1] X Trustworthy Source U.S. Transportation Security Administration U.S. government agency responsible for ensuring safety by setting and enforcing travel protocols Go to source Go to www.tsa.gov for the full rules and regulations.

• Painkillers
• A sedative (if you are a nervous traveler)
• Anti-nausea medication
• Chewing gum (for air pressure changes)
• Earplugs (good for travel in general)
• Medication for anything you are prone to, such as allergies.

Packing Your Checked Luggage

• Flight attendants and crew do it all the time. They can go over a week with just a carry on. [2] X Research source If they can do it, so can you. You can then use the extra $50, if applicable, for whatever you please.

• Though you should hold off on bringing too many shoes, you have to bring some. Shoes should be packed in plastic bags to avoid soiling your other goods unless they are brand new. Also, consider packing socks in your shoes rather than waste space.

• Take the lid off of each bottle and plastic wrap the top; then put the lid back on. This means that even if the lid opens, you should still be fine.

• The tighter the roll, the more room you save. Even a little more compression here and there goes a long way.

• The zipper kind – the kind that literally has a zipper on it. The resealable ones are better than the non-sealable kind, but the zipper kind is best – the resealable kind can open when force is applied.
• High-quality zip-lock bags can also be used to pack your bag tighter. You can sometimes get to 1/3 more room if your clothing is put in zip-lock bags, the air forced out, then sealed. It can also protect clothing from getting soaked in outdoor adventures and keep your dirty underwear away from your clean clothes.

• In general, it's easier to back long, cylindrical items than odd shaped bottles and containers. In the future, to streamline your packing look for items that are of more basic shapes and sizes. They take up less room overall.

Preparing for Your Trip

• Most airlines charge per bag, so aim for big suitcases if you need to to cut down on number.
• However , overweight bags typically cost more than additional bags, so be careful!
• Choose unique bags. You want to be able to spot it quickly at the pickup carousels. If you have a generic bag, put a marker like a ribbon on it.
• Aim for at least one roller. You can stack a duffel bag on top of a roller bag, but carrying multiple duffel bags is a drag.
• Check for damages to your suitcases/bags before you go.

• If you can, try to avoid needing a checked bag. More and more airlines are charging for that first checked bag, and a cheap flight can turn into an expensive one in a matter of no time. If flight attendants can live out of a carry-on for over a week at a time, so can you.

• Take a small amount of multipurpose items to deal with the climate of your vacation destination. For instance, one waterproof windbreaker takes less space than a raincoat and a jacket.

Expert Q&A

• If you're packing belts, don't roll them up. A space-saver is snaking the belt around the perimeter of your luggage case. Thanks Helpful 5 Not Helpful 0
• Having extra underwear or more than you think you'll need is a good idea. Jeans and t-shirts will last just fine, but a fresh pair of underwear just might save the day. Thanks Helpful 5 Not Helpful 1
• Always put valuables in your carry-on in case your suitcase gets lost. Thanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 0

Tips from our Readers

• Make sure you chew on something for the ENTIRE duration of the flight including take off and landing. Without this, your ears can be different from the rest of your body and they will hurt. Badly. Some ideas of things to chew on are gum, Starbursts, gummy bears/worms, really anything that will make your jaw work hard.
• Always bring a little backpack where you can put essentials like electronics, passports, and gum.
• Make sure you roll up your clothes. It saves a lot of room.
• Pack extra bags. It can help you bring back souvenirs.

• Certain items cannot be brought onto any plane, according to TSA regulations. Learn what items you must declare, and what items are prohibited. Thanks Helpful 13 Not Helpful 3
• Be careful with sedatives. You want to be prepared in case of an emergency. Thanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 0

Things You'll Need

• Soap (bar or liquid)
• Toothpaste, toothbrush
• Underarm deodorant
• Face/body moisturizer
• Contacts, solution & eyeglasses
• Makeup (if necessary)
• Period products (if required)
• Prescription drugs (if required)
• Short sleeved shirts
• Long sleeved shirts
• Button-down shirts
• Sweatshirt/fleece (if weather requires)
• Sleep shirts
• Pajama bottoms
• Long underwear (if weather requires)
• Walking shoes/boots
• Waterproof jacket
• Toiletry Ziploc bag (3 oz bottles in 1 Ziploc)
• Camera and film
• First aid kit
• Day pack/tote bag
• Passport, drivers license, student ID
• Money/credit card/traveler's checks
• Credit card theft notification ph.#'s
• Chargers for your devices
• Headphones and/or earbuds

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.tsa.gov/traveler-information/3-1-1-liquids-rule
• ↑ https://www.whattopack.com/packing-tips/never-pack-these-in-your-checked-bag/

About This Article

To pack for air travel, roll your clothes as tightly as possible to not only save space but also to prevent wrinkles. Place the heavier clothing on the bottom of the bag, as lighter items will mold to the shape of the top of your bag. Save even more space by packing socks inside of shoes. Also, put shoes in a plastic bag as this will keep them from soiling your clothes. Toiletries should also go in plastic bags as they could leak. For tips on what to pack in your carry-on bag, continue reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No

• Send fan mail to authors

Reader Success Stories

Ethel Lee Johnson

May 22, 2017

Did this article help you?

Glenda Landry

Oct 25, 2017

Billy McCafferty

Aug 26, 2017

Aubrey Isakson

Jul 23, 2018

Jose E. (Henry) Acevedo

Oct 11, 2016

Featured Articles

Trending Articles

Watch Articles

• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Do Not Sell or Share My Info
• Not Selling Info

wikiHow Tech Help Pro:

Level up your tech skills and stay ahead of the curve

Protect Your Trip »

27 things you should always pack in your carry-on bag.

Create your packing list of essentials and new in-flight finds.

What to Pack in a Carry-on Bag

Packing your carry-on bag for a flight is exciting – but it can also be overwhelming. With a little planning and a concise list of airport and in-flight essentials, you can maximize space and be prepared for your journey.

To help you decide what to pack in your carry-on bag, our team compiled this list of must-have items. Download the packing list here to use while you prep for your next trip, then read on to learn more about what to pack.

Carry-on packing list

Travel wallet, passport holder, toiletry bag, tsa-approved liquids bag and compliant containers, prescription medications, glasses case, travel pillow, packing cubes, tech organizer, luggage tracker, zippered pouches and reusable silicone bags, mini clip bag, hand sanitizer, bluetooth wireless adapter, wired earbuds or headphones, e-reader or a great book, travel adapter/converter, travel first-aid kit, reusable water bottle, activities or games, light jacket, change of clothing.

Protect your credit cards and cash with an RFID wallet like the Travelon RFID Blocking Single Zip Wallet , which prevents scammers from wirelessly stealing your personal information. This travel wallet is especially useful since it can also hold most smartphones.

If you're traveling internationally, an option like the TIGARI Passport Holder can protect your travel document and make it easy to locate in your carry-on bag. You'll need access to your passport at airport security, when you board the plane and when you're filling out entry forms, so keep the passport holder as well as a pen within reach. Once you arrive at your destination, put the passport wallet somewhere safe at your lodging or – if you feel inclined to keep it with you – stow it in your travel purse, belt bag or backpack to ensure it's safe while you explore.

Getty Images

Pack your toiletry bag in your carry-on so you can easily freshen up and so that you'll have essentials like toothpaste and deodorant in the event your checked luggage is lost in transit. Also consider packing toiletries that are useful for travel (particularly the dry air on planes), even if they're not part of your daily routine at home.

U.S. News senior travel editor Marisa Méndez recommends including a facial moisturizer and a body lotion in your toiletry bag. "My skin always dries out on flights and it's nice to have something to soothe my skin," she says.

"I always love having facial spray to freshen up after the flight," says Elizabeth Von Tersch , also a senior travel editor at U.S. News. She always keeps one in her purse. " Mario Badescu and Evian are great." These facial sprays help to moisturize your skin after the drying environment on a plane or give you a little midday pick-me-up.

When packing your carry-on bag for a flight, you'll want to have a clear quart-sized bag that meets Transportation Security Administration guidelines for liquids and gels. Some Dopp kits or toiletry bags include a removable bag for travel-size liquids, or you can buy this reusable TSA-approved clear bag on Amazon . Put any liquids or gels you're traveling with in this bag, including shampoo, lotion, liquid makeup items and hand sanitizer.

Keep in mind that all liquids and gels must be in travel-size bottles or containers measuring 3.4 ounces or less. Remember: You'll need to remove this clear quart-sized bag from your carry-on bag at security, so consider packing it in an external pocket or an easy-to-find spot in your carry-on suitcase. To learn more about TSA regulations, consult our article about what is allowed in a carry-on .

Never stow prescription medications in checked baggage : If luggage is lost or delayed, replacing these medications while traveling can be extremely challenging or even impossible. If you take multiple medications, consider a travel pill sorter like the EZY Dose Pill Organizer , available for about $5 on Amazon.

Whether you wear glasses for vision correction or you're packing your favorite pair of sunglasses, keeping them protected while stowed in your carry-on is essential. If you're bringing multiple pairs, a case like the foldable Dagne Dover Remi Glasses Case can hold up to three pairs, or the Lug Eyeglass Holder & Mini Pill Case works well for eyeglasses and contacts.

Courtesy of Cabeau

Resting throughout your journey can help you feel refreshed when you reach your destination and make the time pass a little quicker. But nothing can (literally) cramp your style like a stiff neck from sleeping wrong. Choose a comfortable neck pillow for travel like the top-rated Cabeau Evolution S3 or the MLVOC Travel Pillow (less than $30 on Amazon). For a travel pillow that doubles as a packing cube, consider the Tube pillow , which holds up to three days' worth of clothing.

Packing cubes aren't just for organizing clothing and shoes. Maximize space in your carry-on bag with these handy travel compartments . While Eagle Creek's PACK-IT line features the top-rated compression packing cubes on the market, many travelers also swear by the Veken Packing Cubes , which are usually available for $20 or less on Amazon. To maximize space even more, consider Lug's compression packing cubes .

If you're planning to travel with jewelry, watches or items that would be difficult to replace, be sure to put these in your carry-on bag, as checked items run the risk of being misplaced. For jewelry, a compact case that is easy to spot like the Lug Mini Swizzle is ideal for rings, cufflinks or earrings.

It's easy to let your charging cords get lost at the bottom of your bag or get your headphones tangled somewhere in your tote. A handy tech organizer such as the CALPAK Tech Organizer or the BAGSMART Tech Organizer , with zippered compartments and sections for specific cords, can help reduce tangled messes (and the need for you to search for your essentials in a tight airplane cabin).

Even though you'll have your carry-on bag with you, it's still a good idea to have a luggage tracker like an Apple AirTag or a Tile Pro securely attached to your bag. In the event you and your bag get separated, you'll be able to track down where you parted ways (because when you're jet-lagged it's easy to be a bit absent-minded).

Smaller than packing cubes, zippered pouches and silicone bags like the Stasher Silicone Reusable Storage Bags are perfect for storing everything from snacks to scrunchies. If traveling with family, consider different colored pouches for each traveler's items so you can easily tell them apart without removing everything from the bag.

Get a handy little bag with a carabiner clip, such as the CALPAK Luka Key Pouch , to securely attach to the outside of your bag for quick-grab items like gum, hand sanitizer or individual travel wipes . Once you're at your destination, you can clip it on a belt loop or use the elastic band to slide it on your wrist for your room key, lip gloss and other small essentials.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Let's face it – traveling can introduce your body to a host of unwanted germs. Carrying a bottle of travel hand sanitizer will keep your hands clean on the go, even if there's not a bathroom nearby. To disinfect surfaces like airplane tray tables, arm rests or tables, consider having a pack of disinfecting wipes at your disposal as well.

During a flight, the low humidity and high altitude can have a drying effect on your skin and lips. To combat the dry air, consider packing a hydrating lip balm like this new stick option by Aquaphor . What's more, if you choose a balm over a liquid moisturizer, you won't need to store this product in your clear TSA-approved liquids bag.

In-flight entertainment can help your travel day go faster, but being tethered to the seatback with wired headphones can feel a bit constricting. Plus, you may have to unplug to let your seat mates in or out. Avoid those troubles and connect your wireless headphones to the in-flight system with Twelve South's AirFly ($35 or less on Amazon), which wirelessly transmits audio via Bluetooth.

If you'd prefer to connect directly to the in-flight entertainment to watch a movie (or maybe just tune out your seatmates), buy some inexpensive wired earbuds like this well-rated set by Jogteg . You can keep them in your carry-on so you're always ready, even on flights where they don't pass out complimentary headsets.

Having a book or magazine in your carry-on bag is always a good idea. Whether you encounter a delayed flight, a long layover or a plane with less than stellar in-flight entertainment, a good book will help pass the time.

On everything from red-eye flights to international jaunts, a good eye mask can block out light from overhead, the seatback screens and plane windows. The Nodpod Sleep Mask is especially relaxing since it's weighted.

"Even if you plan to grab a bite at the airport or on the plane (if that's an option), pack some snacks," says Amanda Norcross , content and SEO strategist for travel at U.S. News. "Flying is unpredictable and stressful for many travelers, and 'hanger' only makes things worse." Trail mix, granola bars, crackers, pretzels, dried fruit and popcorn are some good snack options you may want to throw in your carry-on. Also put chewing gum in your carry-on to freshen breath and help with ear popping.

It's not always easy to find a charging station at the airport, and there are restrictions when it comes to packing batteries in your carry-on baggage for any flight. One option that meets Federal Aviation Administration guidelines is the Anker 537 Power Bank (PowerCore 26K for Laptop) . This device can charge a laptop, smartphone or tablet quickly, to keep your devices running even on a long flight.

For international travel – since different countries use different plug shapes – packing a universal adapter or converter will enable you to charge your devices and other electronics. Before purchasing, consider what your needs will be, especially regarding the shape of the wall outlet plugs and the voltage of the countries you'll be visiting.

A travel adapter such as the EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter on Amazon makes plugs from the U.S. fit into electrical outlets around the world, whereas a travel converter like the ALLWEI International Travel Adapter converts the electricity voltage. If you're traveling overseas from the U.S., you'll need both of these devices to use electronics like laptops, curling irons and hair straighteners (unless your device is dual voltage, like the BaBylissPRO Nano Mini Straightening Iron ).

For minor injuries like blisters from new shoes or unexpected cuts and scrapes, pack a first-aid kit with Band-Aids and triple antibiotic ointment like Neosporin in your bag.

Staying hydrated while traveling is a must. Pack a reusable water bottle like the Corkcicle Canteen Triple Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle to fill up at the airport before your flight and refill throughout your travels. Even better – an insulated bottle will stay cold for hours.

Whether it's a long flight or layover (or maybe you just need a good distraction), having some activities like a miniature coloring book and mini colored pencils or small packable games can be really useful.

"I took a small coloring book and a small set of pencils on a flight once and it was life-changing," Méndez says. U.S. News senior digital producer for travel Leilani Osmundson says she and her husband love to bring a deck of cards and portable two-player games to pass the time.

"I typically wear a lightweight jacket on the plane to free up space in my carry-on," says Norcross. "If the plane is too warm, I can easily stuff it under the seat in front of me with my backpack." If you're in need of a simple yet effective packable jacket , check out the Amazon Essentials Puffer Jacket .

Whether your coffee spills off your tray table or you lose your checked baggage, an extra outfit is handy to have. Pack a versatile outfit (including socks and underwear) into your carry-on bag so you have a backup option, or perhaps have your swimwear and flip-flops ready to head directly to the beach the moment you arrive. For tired or swollen feet, having a pair of compression socks and a change of walking shoes can make your travel day much more comfortable.

What not to pack in a carry-on bag

When packing a carry-on bag or suitcase, it's important to note that some items are prohibited on all flights, due to Federal Aviation Administration regulations. The prohibited list includes aerosol products (such as anti-static spray or pepper spray), lithium or lithium-ion batteries, firearms and ammunition, flammables, and explosives. For more details on what you can and can't pack in your carry-on, visit the TSA's What Can I Bring? and the FAA's Pack Safe websites.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Rachael Hood loves to see how much she can fit in her carry-on bag. She always brings a few snacks, a good read and little luxuries to make the journey comfortable. Hood used her personal travel experience, along with her retail background and research expertise, to curate this list.

You might also be interested in:

• Can I Use My Own Airplane Seat Belt Extender?
• The Top Luggage Brands
• Carry-on Luggage Sizes by Airline
• What to Do If Your Flight Is Canceled
• The Best Travel Insurance Companies

Tags: Travel , Travel Gear

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

The best charleston tours.

John Rodwan April 4, 2024

The Best Napa Valley Wine Tours

Amanda Norcross April 4, 2024

The 10 Best Denver Tours

Lyn Mettler April 4, 2024

Top Memorial Day Weekend Getaways

Nicola Wood April 3, 2024

The Best Way to Renew a Passport

Amanda Norcross April 3, 2024

The Best Checked Luggage

Erin Evans , Rachael Hood , Catriona Kendall , Sharael Kolberg , Amanda Norcross and Leilani Osmundson April 3, 2024

The Best Venice Tours

Lyn Mettler and Marisa Méndez April 2, 2024

The Best Travel Toiletry Bags

Amanda Norcross April 2, 2024

U.S. News Best Bed & Breakfasts Rankings

U.S. News Hotels Editors April 2, 2024

The Best Carry-on Backpacks

Rachael Hood , Erin Evans , Catriona Kendall , Amanda Norcross and Leilani Osmundson March 29, 2024

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Travel Tips
• Packing Tips

How to Pack Lighter, Smarter, and Faster, According to T+L Editors

Since 1971, Travel + Leisure editors have followed one mission: to inform, inspire, and guide travelers to have deeper, more meaningful experiences. T+L's editors have traveled to countries all over the world, having flown, sailed, road tripped, and taken the train countless miles. They've visited small towns and big cities, hidden gems and popular destinations, beaches and mountains, and everything in between. With a breadth of knowledge about destinations around the globe, air travel, cruises, hotels, food and drinks, outdoor adventure, and more, they are able to take their real-world experience and provide readers with tried-and-tested trip ideas, in-depth intel, and inspiration at every point of a journey.

No matter the length of the trip — be it a weekend beach getaway or a three-week Himalayan trek — you'll need to pack a bag, and you'll want to pack it right .

There's a lot to consider when determining what to bring: the type and length of your trip, your itinerary, the weather, the size of your luggage, and any weight limits imposed by your mode of transportation. And with so many factors at play, it's easy to overpack or underpack, especially if you've waited until the last minute.

Enter: the editors at Travel + Leisure , most of whom can be ready for a trip at a moment's notice. We're sharing our favorite ways to keep your clothes wrinkle-free, your cosmetics spill-proof, and your souvenirs safe, whether you're packing for a solo trip or for your entire family (kids included).

You'll learn how to best organize your carry-on luggage , how to pare down to avoid those excess baggage fees, and a few easy tricks to help you remember the little items you're most likely to forget .

With these travel packing tips, you'll be packing like a pro in no time. The only question that remains: Where will you and your impeccable packing skills be heading to next?

Pack by Outfit

"There's nothing more annoying than struggling to stuff everything back into your suitcase at the end of a trip only to realize you didn't even wear half the clothes you brought. That's why I started strictly packing by outfit — not individual item — and only letting pieces I had a plan for make the cut. I'll take a skirt only if I know I'm bringing a top and shoes that I would wear with it, and I'll think about the activities on my itinerary and what I see myself wearing while doing them. I hate checking a bag but love clothes, so being realistic and planning ahead is key." — Nina Ruggiero, Deputy Digital Editor

Lay Things Out First

"Even when I pack at the very last minute, I take time to lay everything out before any item goes into my bag. Grouping things together on my bed helps me see quickly what items don't pull their weight. A pair of pants that can only be worn with one top, or that requires shoes I wasn't already planning to pack? Back in the drawer. Seeing everything clearly before I start also helps me fit things into my bag in a logical way. For me, this means starting with my bulkiest items, then cherry-picking lightweight items to tuck into gaps around them to form a sturdy base layer to build up from." — Skye Senterfeit, Photo Editor

Have a Dedicated, Pre-packed Travel Dopp Kit

"One of the most frustrating parts of getting ready for a big trip is realizing that you can't zip up your bag until after you've brushed your teeth and packed the products you need in your toiletry bag. I keep a travel-only toiletry bag that has duplicates of everything I ever travel with ready to go in my suitcase." — Tanner Saunders, Associate Digital Editor

To buy: Rains Small Dopp Kit, nordstrom.com , $34

Choose a Soft-Sided Bag

"Packing in a soft-sided weekender or duffel gives you the flexibility (literally!) to shape your bag to what you're packing instead of the other way around. My canvas overnighter takes on a different shape depending on what I need it to hold and will squish, even when packed almost beyond its means, into spaces a hard-sided roller bag just won't go. I hope my current bag will last forever but I'm eyeing this simple weekender from Makr as its eventual replacement." — Skye Senterfeit, Photo Editor

To buy: Makr Fold Weekender Revised in Navy Canvas, makr.com , $185

Have a Ready-to-go Health Kit

"After going on international adventures and suffering food poisoning, sudden fever, cuts and scrapes, terrible bug bites, and other ailments — and then having to navigate a foreign pharmacy — I've learned to always pack a small medical kit . I keep a toiletry bag ready to go stocked with Band-aids, Neosporin, pain relievers, cold medicine, medicine for stomach trouble, itch relief ointment, antibiotics (you can ask your doctor for an emergency prescription before you travel), and ear plugs (life savers on long-haul flights and trains). And if you never have to use it, all the better!" — Karen Chen, Editorial Producer

To buy: First Aid Kit, amazon.com , $20.57

Separate Jewelry With Snack Size Bags

"Buy 'snack size' plastic bags for packing necklaces. To prevent tangling, give each one its own bag and fasten the clasp." — Kathy Roberson, Copy & Research Chief

To buy: Ziploc Double Zipper Storage Bags, amazon.com , $19.94

Check the Hotel Closet

"In the closet of most high-end hotel rooms, you'll find draw-string fabric bags for laundry and shoes. They're semi-disposable, but fantastic for packing. Trust me, using them to separate shoes and dirty laundry will totally transform your return-journey packing experience." — Flora Stubbs, Executive Editor

Be Prepared for Wet Swimwear

"I always pack a plastic grocery bag — or steal the shower cap from the hotel if I forget — to stash a wet bathing suit in for the return home. That way, we get to enjoy every last second on the beach." — Jacqueline Gifford, Editor-in-Chief

Use Marie Kondo's Folding Method

"All memes aside, I've been living the Konmari lifestyle for a few years now, and her folding method may be one of the biggest takeaways. Not only does the method save room in drawers at home, but the folded clothes can go quickly in a bag or suitcase for extremely fast packing. Another perk of using the Marie Kondo method is being able to see your entire wardrobe at once so you don't have to waste time digging in boxes of storage for off season clothes when taking a warm weather vacation in winter months." — Mariah Tyler, Visuals Editor

To buy: "The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering and Organizing" by Marie Kondo, amazon.com , $17

Roll, Don't Fold

"I always overpack, so rolling up my clothes so that they take up less space in my luggage is essential." — Devin Traineau, Associate Photo Editor

Keep Essentials Packed and Ready to Go

"I am a terrible packer. No matter where I am going, or for how long, or how far in advance I booked my trip, I will inevitably be up at 2 a.m. the night before, just one misplaced sneaker away from a complete meltdown. I've accepted this as an inevitability and tried to streamline the process where I can, so now, I always keep a clear toiletry bag packed with all my favorite products, so I can see at a glance what I have and add in a couple essentials (sunscreen for a lake trip, bug spray when there's hiking planned, etc.). I also keep a few plane go-to's — chargers, lip balm, eye mask, neck pillow — in my favorite travel bag, which helps me speed through the personal-item prep so I can get back to bemoaning my lack of good shoes and waffling on how many caftans and books I'll need for a four-day weekend." — Lila Battis, Senior Editor

To buy: Travel Smart by Conair Transparent Sundry Kit, amazon.com , $12.99

Invest in Luggage You Love

"For most of us, no matter how organized we are or how many times we do it, packing will just never be pleasant. The best way to make it more enjoyable? Invest in luggage you look forward to using, be it for functionality or style — or, ideally, both. As professional travelers, the T+L team spends a whole lot of time packing and unpacking, so we worked with top luggage brand TravelPro on a collection we knew we'd actually love to use. I have a set (including a checked bag, hardside carry-on, and tote), and all three pieces are sturdy, spacious, and basically do the organizing for you as you pack in their various compartments. I'm always happy to take them out of my closet and prep for a trip, and I feel good deplaning and exiting the airport in a new city with them in hand." — Nina Ruggiero, Deputy Digital Editor

To buy: travelpro.com

Create a Capsule Wardrobe

"No matter how hard I tried, I could never streamline my packing list — until I started thinking of it in terms of a capsule wardrobe with a specific color palette. I always start with a neutral (usually black or blue) and then build outfits based on the main events or activities happening during the trip. Usually it ends up consisting of two dresses, two pairs of pants, two tops, 1-2 sweaters, and a jacket. More brands, including Aday and Summersalt, are designing their lines so that everything mixes and matches easily, which makes building a functional but flexible packing list that much easier." — Sarah Bruning, Senior Editor

To buy: Wing It Sweater, thisisaday.com , $265

Wear Your Heaviest Clothes on the Plane

"As a chronic overpacker, and someone who never, ever checks a bag, weight limits are no friend of mine. That's why I always stick to the following motto when it comes to packing light: If it's heavy, wear it. Bulky jacket? Cute boots? Chunky sweater? I'll wear them all, then throw the jacket in the overhead bin, slip off my boots and into some compression socks, and usually keep the sweater on – a warm and cozy antidote for those often chilly airplane cabins." — Alisha Prakash, Senior Digital Editor

Keep Masks and Hand Sanitizer at Hand

"If you're traveling during the pandemic, you'll want to pack essentials like face coverings and hand sanitizer in your checked and carry-on luggage so you're never without. Keep them in an easy-to-access pocket so you can grab a fresh mask, wipes, or sanitizer whenever you need it." — Elizabeth Rhodes, Associate Digital Editor

Prepare for Travel Shopping

"Admittedly, packing light isn't easy for me. The only way I can get myself to not prepare for every possible scenario (and end up packing ski goggles next to swimsuits for the same trip) is by promising myself a little shopping while I'm at my destination. This helps me to pack only essentials and a couple of favorite items I know I'll wear or use. Then, I leave at least a quarter of my suitcase empty, ready to be filled with souvenirs. If I don't end up shopping, it's even more of a bonus — there's nothing better than lightweight luggage." — Kendall Cornish, Associate Digital Editor

To buy: Travelpro ® x Travel + Leisure ® Compact Carry-On Expandable Spinner, travelpro.com , $525

How to Pack Delicate Clothes

"I always roll my clothes, making room for more things in my suitcase (admittedly, I'm an overpacker), especially with fabrics that tend to wrinkle or crease easily, like silk or satin. For items that are especially delicate (hello, slip dresses!), I always, always, always roll them around a piece of packing paper. I like that over tissue paper because it's sturdier and tends to hold its shape even if things in my suitcase move around." — Deanne Kaczerski, Digital Content Director

To buy: Brown Craft Paper Roll, amazon.com , $58.25

Wait to Wrap Gifts

"If you're traveling during the holidays, wait to wrap your gifts when you reach your destination. TSA may have to unwrap presents to see what's inside, so it's best to bring the packing supplies with you or opt for bags and tissue paper for easy-rewrapping." — Elizabeth Rhodes, Associate Digital Editor

How to Pack: Tips from the Experts on Maximizing Space

By Rachel Chang

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

As I dusted off my suitcase for my first trip during the pandemic last month, a familiar dread came over me. Despite my track record of packing for two-week vacations in a carry-on suitcase , the process always takes me days of agonizing over every. single. item . Still, as soon as I get out the door, inevitably there’s that one item I wish I had packed that I end up thinking about the rest of the trip.

Before I sunk back into old habits, I reached out to organization experts and flight attendants—the ultimate frequent travelers—to learn the tricks of the trade. Below, 10 of their best packing tips.

1. Use the right suitcase for the occasion

Often, our instincts are to choose luggage based on the length of the trip. While it’s a definite factor, what matters more is the kind of trip. “A compact or medium-sized suitcase is ideal for a city break or beach holiday because you can easily pack a lot of light garments, which you'll need for daily outfit changes when the weather is hot and you've been walking all day,” says Etihad Airways flight attendant Adina Elena Beldie. Hard-sides like Away’s The Bigger Carry-On and Monos’ Hybrid Carry-On , as well as soft-sides like Samsonite’s NuRoad Carry-On Spinner fit the bill.

“On the contrary, an outdoor adventure trip would require a larger suitcase for all of your hiking gear, like thick clothes and bulky footwear,” Beldie adds. Top choices in the category include the REI Co-Op Big Haul Recycled Rolling Duffel or Osprey’s Shuttle Wheeled 130L bag . “Lastly, in my experience, a business trip usually means packing light, although this can vary depending on the duration of the trip,” she says. No matter the size, Travelpro’s Platinum Elite Hardside Luggage fits the chicness and practicality factors with its Compact Carry-On or Medium Check-In .

2. Take the weight off of you

There’s no need for you (or your back) to bear the burden. “If you’re flying to your destination, spinners are a must-have,” travel packing expert Anne McAlpin of Pack It Up says. It’s not just about the luggage itself—it also serves as a way for your carry-on tote to slip over the handle. “The weight of the bag is carried by the spinner, not your shoulders, making traveling through long airport terminals a breeze,” she says.

Though many totes can slip right over the handles of carry-on luggage or a checked bag, sets complete the look, like Delsey’s Chatelet Hard+ two-piece set or Kenneth Cole Reaction’s Chevron Spinner with a Tote .

3. Make a list and check it twice

As with so many essential life tasks, writing out what you need is never a bad idea. “Create a packing list that includes all of your essentials, and then separate ones that are customized to your [trip's] relevant needs,” say the women of The Home Edit , Clea Shearer and Joanna Teplin. One of the biggest mistakes people make, they say, is “just throwing things in a suitcase without a system in mind.”

A list can help you take note of if you’re over or underpacking, Beldie says, adding that, “Proper packing requires time.”

“I recommend adding items to your suitcase about a week in advance—not earlier than that as it’s important to check weather conditions at the destination, which will be more accurate closer to the trip,” she says.

If a handwritten list isn’t your speed, let your items be your visual list. “Lay everything out and start editing,” McAlpin says. “Hang outfits together, so you don’t forget anything.” She says to start two weeks ahead of time and to try everything on. “Part of the stress of packing is deciding what to take and what fits,” she says.

4. Find your own formula 

McAlpin says she’s been recommending her packing ratio—three to one, with three tops for every bottom—for more than 25 years. Most trips work with nine tops and three bottoms, especially when they’re in basic colors that mix and match. She also says not to exceed three pairs of shoes: running or exercise shoes, walking shoes, and a pair of sandals or flip-flops.

On the other hand, Beldie is about the twos. For each day of the trip, she says to think of two tops, two shorts, two T-shirts, two pants, and two undergarments . “For a business trip, packing two shirts per day is a good idea—one for meetings during the day, the other for dinner and night events,” she says.

For organizing guru Marie Kondo , it’s less about numbers and more about categories. “I recommend that you lay everything out first and categorize by type of item to give you a comprehensive look at how many items you have for each category,” she says. “Then fold everything into its smallest possible size. At that point, before you start filling the suitcase, pare down and be honest with yourself about what you really need for the trip.”

The most important aspect of the equation is simplicity: “What do you really need to have a joy-sparking trip? If your trip is for leisure, this is the opportunity to free yourself from everyday decision making and perhaps experience a simpler lifestyle. The fewer clothing options to choose from, the more you can focus on the joyful experience ahead,” she says. But there is one number she says to follow, “Leave 10 or 20 percent empty space so you can buy souvenirs and pack them for your return trip!”

Experts recommend laying everything out before packing your bag.

5. Consider clothing material and colors 

Eva Air senior assistant purser Jennifer Liao says to select the most packable clothing so you’re not constantly thinking about ironing. “Most flight attendants travel with clothes made from wrinkle-free fabrics such as synthetics, wool, denim, and knit—we don’t pack linen because it wrinkles so easily,” she says. Hues can also make a big difference. “The colors we pack are important. The darker the color, the fewer visible wrinkles,” Liao adds.

Olivia Morelli

Caitlin Morton

Stacey Lastoe

Tifsit Teferra, a Delta Air Lines flight attendant, says to focus on a wide range of choices, too. She avoids packing too many of the same thing: “Why take up space with six tees when you can bring a variety of tops—variety is the spice of packing!”

6. Less is more

McAlpin’s packing motto is: “Less stuff, less stress.” She once traveled 21 days in a 21-inch carry-on that was less than 21 pounds—covering diverse climates from India and Jordan to New York City. That pack light mentality is echoed across the board.

“People tend to, quite literally, weigh themselves down when traveling,” Kondo says. “Remind yourself that traveling is temporary and should be about the actual trip itself rather than extensive wardrobe selections. Packing just a few outfits that you absolutely love will make getting ready each day a breeze. Select clothes that are comfortable, do not wrinkle easily , and that make you feel good about yourself.”

“Not all items will apply to all people, and not all items will apply to all trips,” Shearer and Teplin say. “So if you absolutely, without a doubt, cannot live without an item, then by all means, bring it! Just remember: You get the item or you get the space, but you don't get both.”

7. Organize your clothes vertically and tightly

Though some packers prefer laying clothes flat, the experts we talked to agree that rolling is key to save space. “Clothes should be folded into their smallest possible size,” Kondo says. “Thin fabrics are best to roll to prevent wrinkles. Another tidy trick is to tuck your folded underwear into bra cups within your suitcase—it keeps the undergarment category together and saves space.”

Think of your suitcase as a table of contents of sorts—you want to be able take one look and know everything inside. “The key here is to pack your items vertically so you can see them all at one glance,” Kondo says. “That way, you don’t have to take out everything to find the one item you are looking for.”

8. Categorize your contents

Take that idea one step further with packing cubes. “They will help use vertical space and adhere to a tidy routine while on the road,” Kondo says. KonMari partnered with Paravel on the Packing Cube Quad, a set of four that makes categorizing easy on the go. Kondo suggests using the smallest one for underwear, the largest for bulky items like outerwear and towels, one of the middle ones for clean clothes, and the other for dirty ones. “What’s great about the packing cubes is that you can place your vertically folded clothes into the cube from your drawer at home, then transfer them straight into the drawers at the hotel, so it’s easy to unpack at the destination,” she says.

The Home Edit team put a different spin on them in the form of pouches. “Packing squares are the real game-changer,” they say of their Zipper Pouch Set . “They are so versatile, which is key when you're needing to pack different items for every trip. The trick is finding packing squares that fit what you regularly pack. We designed our own set with Calpak because we wanted a version that was large enough for storing shoes as well!”

If you want to give your items an extra squeeze, McAlpin suggests Baggallini’s long compression packing cubes , which fit right into that awkward space between the handles of most luggage to maximize space.

Tech cords and chargers might need a slightly different method to remain neat. Kondo’s shop sells a Bellroy Tidy Tech Kit , while Teferra goes more homemade: “I fold cords and then use Velcro tape to secure them.”

9. Wear your bulkiest clothing

Though we’ve heard those infamous stories of people layering on clothes to save on baggage fees, there is a time and place for wearing some of your essential needs on your back. “If you are going to a cold weather location, I suggest wearing your bulkier items like a coat and boots, and always carry your water bottle,” Teferra says. If you do need to put them in your suitcase, Teferra says, “Bulky items should always go at the bottom of your suitcase, and it’s best to layer them flat—never fold or roll them.”

10. Keep travel essentials packed

“We always say, if you stay ready, you won't have to get ready,” The Home Edit women say. Especially for frequent travelers, instead of constantly packing and unpacking, keep the items that you always take with you packed. “It helps to organize your travel toiletries and accessories ahead of time so your packing routine is essentially grab-and-go,” they add.

Liao agrees, admitting that the Eva Air team travels so much that “some of us keep essential items that we never unpack in our luggage.” The advantage can shave tremendous time on packing for your next trip. “All we need to do before each flight is pack clothes.”

Pack Hacker is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more

60 Packing Tips For Travel From Expert Packers

Get ready for your next trip with our complete list of minimalist packing tips.

Maybe you got stuck paying for an overweight bag on your last trip or had trouble finding what you needed because it was buried in the bottom of your huge suitcase. Whatever the reason, you want to start your journey toward becoming a minimalist packer. But where to begin?

Well, you're in the right place! Here at Pack Hacker, we’ve been giving our community packing tips for years to help them on the road to smarter travel. There’s plenty to consider, from knowing how much clothing you need to pack for a week’s vacation to how to adapt your packing list for warm or cold weather travel. Plus, of course, there’s the gear you use to pack it all up. From a carry on backpack to packing tips for toiletries and tech, we can help.

Since this is Pack Hacker, our first set of packing tips, of course, focuses on finding the right bag for you, and we also have tons of packing tips for clothing since it will take up most of your bag.

So here is our most comprehensive roundup of all the great travel packing tips we’ve given over the years, all in one place. Whether you’re looking for help packing a carry on, packing tips for international travel, or even suitcase packing tips, we can help you. So sit down, relax, and get packing!

Packing Tips To Find The Right Bag

• Travel with a backpack: When choosing the right carry on bag for you, we prefer to travel with a backpack instead of rolling luggage when possible. No matter where you’re traveling, you won’t have to worry about wheels getting jammed with snow, dirt, mud, and salt or worry about them getting stuck in cobblestone streets. Also, when you travel with a carry on bag, you won’t have to wait at the carousel for your luggage, so you can get right to your trip (or, if you get in late, hotel).
• Consider size and weight: When looking for a carry on bag, try to find one that weighs less than four pounds, so you can pack more gear without going over the airline weight limit. There are plenty of travel backpacks out there that are packed with organizational features. Check the carry on limits of your preferred airline before you buy one, though, to ensure it will fit their restrictions. After all, no one wants to check their bag at the gate if they can help it.
• Choose your gear first: Decide what gear you’ll need before choosing your bag. Do you need specialized compartments to hold your camera kit ? Or are you a digital nomad who will pack a lot of tech gear? Some of the best tips for packing we have to share are to choose low-profile versions of the items you’re not sure you’ll need, like a packable rain jacket or hat, so you can travel with a smaller bag.
• It’s hip to be square: If you’re looking for packing tips for international travel, or airline travel in general, choosing square-shaped bags with good structure are easier to pack with more gear while still holding their shape. That’s because you can use packing cubes to hold your clothing, and they’re easier to fit into a backpack with corners than a more rounded shape. These are also great suitcase packing tips, because cubes help you stay organized no matter what type of carry on bag you prefer.
• Check the features: The ideas we share for cruise packing tips will differ from our packing tips for international travel because they'll depend on the weather at your destination. Nevertheless, one thing holds true no matter where you’re heading: know the climate of the place you’re shopping for. You may need additional weatherproofing features if you plan to hike a glacier during your Alaskan cruise or prioritize locking mechanisms if traveling to more sketchy locales in Southeast Asia.
• Consider the access points: Don’t forget about quick-access pockets when you’re looking for the right travel backpack. After spending time packing your bag just right, you don’t want to dislodge it to pull out your passport or liquid toiletries for inspection. However, if you’re planning to bring a hat or travel water bottle and your pack lacks special pockets, our travel packing tips include using a carabiner to hook them onto a bag strap. We also like using compression straps to hang onto larger gear like yoga mats and tripods.
• Watch your back: lf you’ll be carrying your bag for a while, whether through the airport to catch your connecting flight or several blocks to get to your hotel or Airbnb, ensure your backpack has extra ventilation. It’s no fun arriving at your destination with a sweaty back or overheating on the walk to the bus. More packing tips for travel include checking out duffle bags to keep your back open if you know you’re heading to a hot and humid locale or even using rolling luggage if you don’t need to worry about ground conditions slowing you down.
• Invest in your gear: No matter what your travel needs, our packing tips for travel always include investing in the best gear so it lasts for trips to come. You don’t want to find yourself on the other side of the globe when the zipper rips off your cheap backpack or the handle snaps off your suitcase, so it pays to pay a little more at the start to avoid mishaps. Our suitcase packing tips and carry on packing tips always include inspecting your gear before you go. You may have tossed your trusty bag in a corner one too many times or discover that it degraded from being stored in the sweltering attic since you last traveled.
• Bring a packable bag: Your travel backpack may be the right pick for getting you from home to vacation, but you never know when you’ll need a daypack or sling while exploring. Instead, grab a packable bag to load up for daily adventures or shopping trips to the local market.

Packing Tips To Lighten The Load

• Lightweight is easier for travel: When you’re packing for one bag travel, it’s easier to pull a carry on out of the overhead bin than wait for the plane to unload. Plus, if you’re carrying a backpack, it can get heavy to lug around while you wait for your check-in time. Most airlines limit a carry on to about 22 pounds (10 kilograms), though, compared with the 50 you can usually get in a checked bag, so it’s important to review the rules of the airline you’re flying before leaving home. If they don’t count a personal item bag toward your limit, you can use it for heavier items, like a laptop.
• Bring the essentials: Deciding what’s most important to you is one of our best packing tips for travel. While bringing a travel neck pillow on board could be nice, you may want to leave it behind and save extra space for more clothing or tech gear. If you can travel with a smaller version of what you need, like bringing a tablet or a smartphone instead of a laptop, you’ll save space and weight in your bag.
• Sweat the small stuff to save ounces: Every ounce counts, so optimizing your gear and going for packable versions to lighten the load are great tips for packing. Think compressible travel water bottles and packable rain jackets instead of full-size gear, and opt for a minimalist wallet instead of a bulky bifold. Our carry on packing tips always include going through your wallet and leaving cards you don’t need while traveling behind.
• Bigger isn’t better: Another item to add to our list of packing tips for travel is to reduce the size of your gear, whether it’s by bringing just the head to your razor or toothbrush so you can pack a smaller toiletry bag, or bringing lighter-weight travel tech gadgets . While you may sacrifice a little if you bring a smaller battery bank with a lower capacity, it’ll be worth it to save weight and avoid surprise fees at the airport.

Tips To Pack Strategically

• Save space in your carry on: When’s the last time you returned from a trip without some sort of souvenir? When packing, leave space in your carry on bag for the fun things you might want to bring home, whether it’s a T-shirt, a tchotchke, or a new snack. Or be sure to bring a packable bag so you can carry them on the plane as a personal item bag on your return trip.
• Share space with a friend: If you’re traveling with family or a friend, you may be able to share space in each other’s bags to carry less. For instance, you may be able to pack all your gear for the plane in one personal item bag and use your companion's bag for snacks.
• Get creative with your gear: Pack gear that works double duty, protecting your glasses from scratches in socks, for example, or using a hoodie as a neck pillow. If you’re staying at a hotel, you can leave a lot of toiletries behind since there’s likely to be soap and shampoo in the shower. As for tech, don’t bring chargers for each item. Instead, bring one universal charger to power up all your gear.
• Lay it all out: When you’re packing, lay everything out and then divide it into piles of what will be used daily, less frequently, and rarely. Then consider the gear you use rarely or less frequently and see if there’s anything you can ditch to save weight in your pack. Lying everything out also gives you a better idea of how to pack your bag properly since you can first organize it by category and type.
• Practice your trip: One of the best packing tips is to do it early. Pack for your trip in advance, and then try living out of your bag for a while. Carry it around the block for a trial run to figure out how it will feel as you walk from security to your boarding gate. That way, if it doesn’t feel good, you can figure out what’s poking you in the back before you’re on the streets of New York City or Singapore.

Carry On Packing Tips

• Be strategic with placement: Where you pack your gear in your bag is just as important as what you pack. Keep heavy items in the center of your backpack that will ideally hit you between your hips and shoulder blades and as close to your back as possible for maximum comfort and weight distribution. Then make use of exterior pockets to keep travel essentials like a wallet, your passport, and an extra layer within easy reach.
• Add organization: If you don’t want all of your clothing to be in a messy heap when you reach your destination, use packing cubes and pouches to organize your gear. Not only can you keep your clothing sorted into different categories to be easy to find later, but you can make sure your rolls stay rolled instead of shifting and sliding around during your flight. If you're making multiple stops on your trip, pack everything in the same spot as you move around so you always know where to find it.
• Carry on wisely: Check the personal item limits of your specific airline because you may be able to use that to pack instead of paying for a carry on bag. If you get to the airport and find your carry on bag or checked luggage is over the limit, you can shift some items into your personal item bag to reduce the weight. And wear bulkier clothing on the plane since that will save space and weight, too.
• Organize and modularize your gear: If you switch between bags for different destinations, consider packing your gear in pouches. Then you can easily swap your tech accessories, from your travel backpack to your daypack .
• Stay secure: More packing trips for travel focus on security. Whether heading off the beaten path or to a busy metro area, you may want to invest in an anti-theft bag to keep pickpockets away from your gear. If you don’t, take extra precautions like packing your valuables innermost in your bag, and be sure to carry on sensitive gear (like medication) so it doesn’t end up on the wrong plane by accident.

Packing Tips For Clothing

• Know when to fold ‘em, when to roll ‘em, and when to bundle up: The clothing you pack will dictate how you pack it. Rolling will make your clothing more compact but can cause more wrinkles, so we don't recommend it for delicate fabrics like silk or linen. The Marie Kondo KonMari method of folding—where your items are folded lengthwise in thirds, then halved top to bottom, and in thirds that direction again—is faster and produces fewer wrinkles. Still, it works best in clamshell bags, cubes, or a traditional suitcase. For delicate fabrics, roll an entire outfit together. It causes fewer wrinkles, and then you won’t have to search for that one missing piece of your ensemble.
• Aim for versatility: Pack a capsule wardrobe by bringing pieces that can mix and match with each other so you can bring less. If you’re unsure of the weather or heading to cooler temperatures, more packing tips for travel include bringing items that can layer together for warmth. Also, pack gear that can serve double duty, like shorts you can swim in or a one-piece bathing suit that looks like a tank top when paired with bottoms.
• Mind your materials: When choosing items for a capsule wardrobe, one of our best packing tips is to opt for breathable fabrics like linen, cotton, or Merino wool , which naturally regulates your body temperature so you can get more uses out of one piece between washings.
• Prepare for Mother Nature: Even if you check the forecast in advance, it may not be right! So be sure to bring a packable rain jacket in case of sudden downpours, a packable travel jacket in case of cooler weather, and a travel towel in case it’s warm enough to hit the beach.
• Consider compression: If you’re looking for packing tips to fit bulky sweaters, jackets, and scarves in your carry on bag, we have one word for you: compression. While compression cubes and pouches are overkill if you’re only packing T-shirts and shorts, they work well for gear that takes up a lot of space, especially if you have to pack extra layers for colder weather.
• Space out: For the ultimate in compression, use a vacuum to suck the air out of space bags. Just realize that it will take more effort and leave your clothing more wrinkled—plus, you’ll have to find a vacuum at your destination to repack for the journey home.
• Dressy clothing is delicate: When you’re looking for packing tips for a dressy destination, we recommend using a garment folder to keep your clothing as neat as possible. They take up more room in your carry on bag, but some companies make ones that fit in larger travel backpacks. Or if it’s just a weekend trip for a wedding, use a garment bag as your carry on bag. You can usually fit shoes and a toiletry bag at the bottom; some even have extra pockets for organizing other small gear.
• If the shoe fits: Wearing bulkier shoes or boots on the plane is one of our best packing tips for travel, but if you do have to find room in your pack for travel shoes , you can use the inside to hold socks, chargers, souvenirs, and other small gear to make use of the otherwise-wasted space. And don’t forget a shoe bag, or even a plastic grocery bag, to keep the residue on the bottom of your shoes from dirtying the rest of your clothing and travel gear.
• Keep your gear dry: Bring a pack liner or a dry bag in your carry on bag so that you can stick any damp or smelly clothing inside for the return trip.

Packing Tips for a Road Trip

• Plan before hitting the pavement: Download entertainment and maps to prepare for the chance of losing a signal on the drive. We also recommend packing your car the night before. You’re more likely to forget something if you’re rushing at the last minute. Our other packing tips for travel on the road include aiming to leave before the sun sets. Seeing where you’re going will help you get off to a good start.
• Pack a car bag: Since you’ll want to pack your travel backpack or duffle bag in the trunk to save room for your passengers, fill a daypack or travel tote bag with the gear you’ll need on the road, like your ID, snacks, gum, and entertainment.
• Keep your dashboard tidy: Finding a place for everything will help you feel calm when you reach your destination, so use the center console for things like spare change, receipts, and snacks that don’t fit in your road bag. Making sure your travel mug fits in the cup holder and grabbing a small bag for trash before you leave home are more great road trip packing tips .
• Pack your vehicle strategically: Keep the items you’ll need on the road, like a travel neck pillow, extra layer, and your road bag, in the backseat so they’ll be within easy reach. Pack everything else in the trunk to prioritize legroom.
• Dress for the drive: A road trip is not the time to be on trend with your fashion (unless you’re going the athleisure route). Instead, opt for stretchy, comfortable clothing that won’t dig in when you’re seated for hours at a time. Plus, flexible fabrics are less likely to wrinkle in the car. And don’t forget to pack sunglasses . You may start when the light is dim, but you’ll be happy you have them after a few hours.
• Take care of your passengers: Packing tips for a road trip include packing for your passengers, as well! Ensure they’ll be comfortable with extra layers, snacks, and a travel neck pillow. Or use a packable jacket or packing cube to save space.
• Get your car cuisine on point: Packing healthy foods will sustain you for miles instead of junk food, which will make you feel sluggish and hungry faster. We like using soft-sided small coolers because they take up less room, and you can use one to pack snacks or a lunch, plus your drinks.

Minimalist Packing Tips For Summer Travel

• Stay hydrated: Nothing will ruin a trip faster than a headache brought on by dehydration. Stay ahead of the game when you travel with a collapsible water bottle since you can fill it when you need a drink, and it will take up less space when you don’t. If insulation is important to you, make space for a bottle that will keep your drink cold for hours, like a YETI or a Hydro Flask. Most travel backpacks have a water bottle pocket, so fill it up! If you plan to hike, outdoor packing tips for travel include looking for a daypack that can hold a water bladder.
• Don’t get burned: If you’re looking for cruise packing tips, listen up. You’ll probably be spending a lot of your trip in the sun, whether lying by the pool, on the beach, or exploring the destinations you stop at. Packing sunscreen will save you from paying inflated prices on the ship or at tourist destinations, and you can also save your skin by packing a hat, sunglasses, and long sleeves. Look for a crushable hat and minimalist sunglasses so they won’t take up extra room in your bag.
• Find fantastic footwear: While some people can wander all day in flip-flops with nary a blister, we think vacation packing tips should include finding supportive sandals that will get you through a day’s adventures. And if you’re planning to be more active, wear moisture-wicking socks with your shoes to stave off sweaty feet. Breaking in the shoes or sandals you plan to wear before you leave home is a must, too, so you can relax comfortably on your trip.
• Stay fresh and clean: If you’re traveling somewhere that’s much warmer than you’re used to, be sure to pack some cleansing wipes and a packable towel in your travel daypack. Then you can wipe down to feel fresh and clean as you explore without feeling like you’ve melted by the end of the day.
• Expect the unexpected: If you’ve packed well in advance of your trip, checking the weather right before you leave may allow you to leave some gear behind. Of course, if you’re heading somewhere the forecast is unpredictable (hello, Florida), pack an extra layer or rain jacket just in case of a cold snap or an afternoon downpour. You can always use it as a travel pillow on the plane!

Budget Packing Tips

• Find freebies: Looking for budget packing tips? One of the best is to bring home free toiletries from the hotel and refill the bottles on your next trip. They’re likely the right size for your 3-1-1 bag, and you won’t have to purchase specific containers.
• Reuse household containers: Look around your house before buying travel bottles . Tic Tac canisters, pill bottles, and bead organizers can all be put to good use organizing your tiny tech, toiletries, and jewelry when you’re on the road. You can also use a hard glasses case as a DIY tech kit for small accessories and secure cords with hair ties or a rubber band.
• Mind your money: You don’t have to spend big bucks on a minimalist wallet. A binder clip works quite well to hold your cash and cards together, although it may feel slightly bulky in your pocket. Of course, you can also hold them together with a hair tie or rubber band, as well.
• Avoid laundry fees: If you are traveling for a while, we have some long-term packing tips for you. Don’t pay to send your clothing to the cleaners. Instead, hand wash your gear in the hotel sink with laundry sheets, a detergent you bring from home, or the hotel soap. Stick a dryer sheet in your travel backpack to keep your gear smelling fresh.
• Loc it up: If you haven’t invested in packing cubes, keep organized with a Ziploc bag! They work great as budget packing cubes, and you can even label them to make it easy to find your favorite tee when you get to your Airbnb. A pillowcase or a laundry bag can also work well.
• Make it personal: Here’s a suitcase packing tip for you. If you have to check a bag, personalize it with a ribbon, duct tape, a pin, or a patch to tell it apart from the rest on the carousel.

Tips For Packing Tech

• Carry space-efficient gear: Look for space-saving versions of tech accessories you can’t live without, such as a smaller wall charger, a silicone keyboard that rolls up, and a universal cord.
• Your phone can do everything: Most smartphones can do just about everything, from helping with navigation to keeping you entertained and recording your memories. So leave the camera, GPS, music, and game systems behind. You can even eliminate a minimalist wallet if you get a case with a pocket for cash and cards.
• Clean up your cables: Wrap up your cables and cords with cable ties, VELCRO, or gear ties. It will ensure nothing gets tangled in your tech pouch and let you see everything else inside at the same time.
• Downsize your pouches: More tips for packing tech include downsizing the case you carry it in. Whether it’s for tech, toiletries, or other gear, it will force you to be creative and pack less. Then you’ll save space and weight in your bag.
• Find a brand you love: If you like one or two pieces of gear by one company (it’s no secret that’s Apple for us!), you’ll likely enjoy most of their products, and when you go all in on one ecosystem, you’re more likely to be able to leave extra adapters and chargers behind, since they may all use the same equipment to power up.
• Bring backups: This goes double if you’re looking for packing tips for international travel, but if there’s a piece of gear you can’t live without, bring a backup. If you must have a certain cord, camera, or charger to work remotely, don’t take a chance of not being able to find it when you’re living the digital nomad life on the other side of the world.

Packing Tips For Travel To Cold Destinations

• Layer up: Packing layers for your capsule wardrobe is even more essential for cold weather. Our tips for packing cold-weather clothing include bringing a moisture-wicking base layer, a thermal shirt, and a mid-layer sweater or hoodie to keep you warm under an outer layer, like a packable puffer jacket. Top it off with a rain jacket, and you can take on almost anything. Plus, all those pieces work well solo when the temperature climbs.
• Invest in a rain jacket: They’re not just for spring showers. A good rain jacket will help buffet the wind, sleet, and snow, too, and since they’re usually pretty packable, it’s worth making room for them in your carry on bag.
• Don’t forget the accessories: You’ll be cold if you forget to cover your extremities, so be sure to bring a pair of gloves, a hat, and maybe even a scarf with you when traveling to colder climes. Our packing tips for travel include bringing a buff for its versatility. It can act as a scarf, a hat, a face mask, and an eye mask in a pinch, and it takes up so little space it’s worth bringing along wherever you go.
• Stay dry: You’ll be colder if moisture seeps in than you would in the same temperature when you’re dry. So invest in weatherproof pieces to keep precipitation at bay and moisture-wicking socks to keep your feet dry if they start to sweat in your warm boots.

Now for a bonus packing tip—get creative! If you follow all of these tips, you’ll have room for some of the extras you prefer to bring along. Being a minimalist packer doesn’t look the same for everyone, so customize our list to you and happy travels! And if you want to learn more, be sure to check out our YouTube channel for all of our minimalist packing tip videos.

June 6, 2023

Author: Kristyne Defever

Kristyne loves theme parks, tropical islands, and hitting the road in the camper with her family. Whether running through Walt Disney World, walking the shores of Lake Michigan, or hiking the Smoky Mountains, she's happiest exploring the outdoors. She enjoys reading, cooking, and spending time with her husband, daughter, dog, and cat.

June 1, 2020

Due to travel restrictions, plans are only available with travel dates on or after

Due to travel restrictions, plans are only available with effective start dates on or after

Ukraine; Belarus; Moldova, Republic of; North Korea, Democratic People's Rep; Russia; Israel

This is a test environment. Please proceed to AllianzTravelInsurance.com and remove all bookmarks or references to this site.

Use this tool to calculate all purchases like ski-lift passes, show tickets, or even rental equipment.

12 Pro Tips for Packing Your Suitcase Smarter

Get a Quote

{{travelBanText}} {{travelBanDateFormatted}}.

{{annualTravelBanText}} {{travelBanDateFormatted}}.

If your trip involves multiple destinations, please enter the destination where you’ll be spending the most time. It is not required to list all destinations on your policy.

Age of Traveler

Ages: {{quote.travelers_ages}}

If you were referred by a travel agent, enter the ACCAM number provided by your agent.

Travel Dates

{{quote.travel_dates ? quote.travel_dates : "Departure - Return" | formatDates}}

Plan Start Date

{{quote.start_date ? quote.start_date : "Date"}}

Share this Page

• {{errorMsgSendSocialEmail}}

Your browser does not support iframes.

Popular Travel Insurance Plans

• Annual Travel Insurance
• Cruise Insurance
• Domestic Travel Insurance
• International Travel Insurance
• Rental Car Insurance

View all of our travel insurance products

Terms, conditions, and exclusions apply. Please see your plan for full details. Benefits/Coverage may vary by state, and sublimits may apply.

Insurance benefits underwritten by BCS Insurance Company (OH, Administrative Office: 2 Mid America Plaza, Suite 200, Oakbrook Terrace, IL 60181), rated “A” (Excellent) by A.M. Best Co., under BCS Form No. 52.201 series or 52.401 series, or Jefferson Insurance Company (NY, Administrative Office: 9950 Mayland Drive, Richmond, VA 23233), rated “A+” (Superior) by A.M. Best Co., under Jefferson Form No. 101-C series or 101-P series, depending on your state of residence and plan chosen. A+ (Superior) and A (Excellent) are the 2nd and 3rd highest, respectively, of A.M. Best's 13 Financial Strength Ratings. Plans only available to U.S. residents and may not be available in all jurisdictions. Allianz Global Assistance and Allianz Travel Insurance are marks of AGA Service Company dba Allianz Global Assistance or its affiliates. Allianz Travel Insurance products are distributed by Allianz Global Assistance, the licensed producer and administrator of these plans and an affiliate of Jefferson Insurance Company. The insured shall not receive any special benefit or advantage due to the affiliation between AGA Service Company and Jefferson Insurance Company. Plans include insurance benefits and assistance services. Any Non-Insurance Assistance services purchased are provided through AGA Service Company. Except as expressly provided under your plan, you are responsible for charges you incur from third parties. Contact AGA Service Company at  800-284-8300 or 9950 Mayland Drive, Richmond, VA 23233 or [email protected] .

Return To Log In

Your session has expired. We are redirecting you to our sign-in page.

Best Way to Pack a Suitcase to Maximize Space – 25 Packing Tips

By Author Delilah

Posted on Last updated: November 18, 2022

Let’s face it, packing your suitcase is one of the least exciting things to do when you’re going on holiday. Not to mention how difficult it is to fit everything in, and how easy it is to unpack it all when you’re only grabbing out a t-shirt and shorts.

We’ll try to make it easier for you. We’ve flown thousands of miles and lived out of our bags for months at a time. 

In this extensive guide, we’ll share our best travel packing tips for how to pack a suitcase to maximize space that we always follow. These are tried and true recommendations we can’t live without.

Travel Packing Tips

There’s no single way to pack a suitcase, but following these travel packing tips will enable you to fit way more in your bags, reduce weight and have a more enjoyable trip overall.

1. Fold AND Roll Clothes to Save Space in Luggage

Rolling clothing to save space is the oldest trick in the book. Some still argue that folding takes up less space, but the general consensus is that rolling definitely helps. It might just come down to the fact that rolled clothing can be squeezed into smaller spaces and corners than folded clothes.

How to Roll Clothes for Packing

The best way to roll clothes for packing is to fold the garment into a rectangle first before tightly rolling it into a cylinder the width of your packing cube. This will ensure a snug fit, minimize wrinkles when packing clothes and keep things organized.

2. Use Packing Cubes

We used to think there was no need for packing cubes. We were so wrong! You’ll be surprised at how much you can squeeze into these cubes and you can easily separate out your t-shirts, pants, underwear etc. 

This makes it so much easier to find items rather than rummaging through your suitcase trying to find ‘that’ t-shirt. It also means keeping things organised and tidy.

We’ve travelled for up to 6-months at a time living out of our suitcase using a couple of sets of these affordable Bagail packing cubes from Amazon and they’ve been perfect.  They’ve lasted for years and the quality is top notch, especially for the price you pay.  

We recommend them to all our friends and family – they’re probably the best value packing cubes you can buy right now. Sure there are lighter and more durable options but the cost doesn’t

Buy It On Amazon

The next best alternative would be the Amazon Basics packing cubes which we found to be very similar and well constructed, however, slightly more expensive for what you get.

3. Use a Lightweight Suitcase

It’s easy to forget your suitcase takes up part of your weight allowance. The lighter your suitcase, the heavier the items you bring can be. When packing for air travel on budget airlines, you’ll need to be even more conscious of this due to strict weight limits.

Opt for a lightweight suitcase or even consider a large backpack (although we wouldn’t recommend a duffel bag). This is often preferred if moving from place to place every few days or if you’re travelling to somewhere remote with gravel roads where lugging around a wheely bag may get tricky and damage the wheels.

When choosing a suitcase, we recommend one that has 360 degree wheels and a hard outer case, as well as sticking to the best, most popular brands. American Tourister and Samsonite make the best rolling luggage available, whilst AmazonBasics is a great, lightweight and affordable option.

Best Suitcase: Samsonite Freeform

Best Budget Suitcase: Amazon Basics 21″ (honestly, this is perfect for most people)

Best Hard Luggage Set: Samsonite Winfield 2

Best Travel Pack: Osprey Farpoint 40 and Osprey Fairview 40 for individuals, Osprey Farpoint Trek 75 for couples

4. Create a Travel Packing List

Spend five minutes writing down all the items you need to bring, and this packing tip will save you so much time and stress in the long run. It’s so easy to forget the little things like a phone charger, pen or a hairbrush.

Creating a structured packing process is essential. Write everything down and tick the items off your travel packing checklist once you’ve packed them. You can even prepare multiple packing lists for various types of trips. For example, we have different packing lists for snow trips compared to beach holidays.

5. Pack Travel-Sized Toiletries

Liquids tend to be quite dense and heavy, so only packing what you need will free up both storage space and weight in your bag. It’s a great idea to pack toiletries after transferring the liquids into smaller bottles.

A pack of four bottles is enough to last one month of holidays for two people. We’d fill them with shampoo, body wash, conditioner and body moisturiser.

For trips longer than a month, we’d still carry these around. Many hotels and hostels provide you with a small bottle of shampoo and soap, so we’d save these and fill our bottles when required. 

There are heaps on Amazon to choose from and they’re super affordable and well worth the investment. These ones look awesome and are the perfect size (four 100ml bottles) – we’d buy them if we didn’t already have some!

Just remember the TSA liquid’s rule (many international governments also follow this rule) if you plan to bring them on your carry-on – don’t bring any greater than 100ml.

6. Leave Half the Clothing You’ve Packed at Home

I’ll admit, I’m guilty of overpacking every time, even for full-time travel with 40L of luggage space. One of our favourite travel packing tips is, once you’ve created a packing list, remove half of the clothing items on there. If you pack something as a ‘just in case’, you’re probably not going to use it.

7. Pack Travel-Sized Towels

I don’t mean to sound dramatic, but the Sea to Summit Drylite Travel Towel changed my life. It takes up a fraction of the space of a regular microfibre travel towel and folds down to the size of my hand!

Towels take up so much space in your bag, so opt for a travel towel. Make sure you pick one that absorbs water well and doesn’t smell after multiple uses.

The Sea to Summit towel often sells out, and although we’d recommend trying to find it, this one by Bagail looks to be the same material so should get the job done the same.

8. Utilise Unused Space When Packing a Suitcase

Shoes are the biggest culprits of unused space in your suitcase. Store socks in your shoes, or whatever else you can find that fits.

If you’re planning on bringing a collared shirt and a belt, roll the belt up to fit inside of the collar. It’ll help the collar to keep its shape while in transit and prevent wrinkles.

Pile all of your bras on top of each other, lining up the cups. Fold a bra in half down the middle, and store a few socks between the cups. Not only are you saving space, but it’ll also help the cups keep their shape.

9. Reduce Shoes in Your Luggage

Shoes are incredibly bulky items and can be awkward shapes to pack.

Limiting the number of shoes should be your first point of call to maximize suitcase space – they just take up too much room. All you really need is a comfortable pair of walking shoes and some sandals.

Ditch the heels. Especially if you’ll likely be out and about during the day, then go straight out to a restaurant and bar at night. Instead, choose a nice sandal you can wear all day and night.

Best Travel Shoes

There are two pairs of comfortable shoes I swear by for both holiday and everyday use. Birkenstocks (I have the Arizonas) and Adidas Ultraboosts (we have the men’s 4.0 and the women’s 22). They’re both unisex as well which is a bonus.

10. Pack Dryer Sheets For Dirty Laundry

Put dryer sheets in your dirty laundry bag to keep your clothing from smelling, especially if you’re unable to do your washing for a week or more. The sheets take up virtually no space in your checked luggage.

11. Pack Travel-Size Makeup in Your Suitcase

When travelling full-time I need to cut down my beauty products significantly, opting for a very lean kit allowing for more space in my checked bag.

Fortunately, a lot of brands offer their most popular products in smaller packaging that is convenient for travel.  Here are some of my favourites:

• Tarte Tarteist Mascara – A great mascara in a small size.
• Benefit Roller Liner – Thin and accurate eyeliner that is absolutely tiny.
• Benefit Lip and Cheek Stain – Benetint is my favourite colour for a light blush or tinted lips
• Tarte Tarteist Palette – Blush, bronzer & highlighter in one
• Mario Badescu Facial Spray – A refreshing, must-have facial spray for anyone travelling for long hours. 100% game changer.
• Sponge Blender – Switch out your foundation brush, concealer brush, setting brush, face brush and more. This is the ultimate travel makeup tool. 
• Biore UV Aqua Rich Sunscreen – The only sunscreen we’ve found that feels like it isn’t there. It’s super thin and doesn’t leave your face greasy, plus the SPF is legit.

12. Use Zip Lock and Plastic Bags for Storage

You’ll never know when these will come in handy; whether you need a place to keep wet swimwear, dirty laundry or leaking toiletries a plastic bag always comes in handy.

13. Ditch the Umbrella or Bulky Raincoat

Umbrellas and big raincoats are bulky. Ditch these and buy a light, pocketable raincoat. Don’t be fooled by a jacket advertising ‘water resistance’ as this will only withstand showers. Instead, make sure you’ve got something waterproof.

For anyone looking for a cheap, lightweight AND waterproof rain jacket the Marmot Precip Rain Jacket for Women and for Men are undoubtedly the best value rain jackets you can buy.  At under $100 and under 300g nothing comes close.

We’ve found the brand Marmot to be great for waterproof raincoats. Even better, they’re pocketable so they take up barely any room and are convenient to carry around during the day. Great for both hot, humid weather and for colder weather, they’re easy to layer underneath.

14. Pack Two Full Outfits in Your Carry On Luggage for Air Travel

Fingers crossed your luggage doesn’t go missing, but if it does happen, you’ll be prepared. If you’ve got space, pack your bathing suit, another pair of shoes and plenty of underwear too. Be sure to pack all your chargers and tech equipment as well.

15. Pack an International Travel Adaptor

Travel adapters are bulky to pack, especially if you’re travelling to multiple countries with different power outlets.

Our Belkin one is our favourite as it has two USB ports to charge our phone and two powerpoints. We’ve found this Joomfeen Travel Adapter to be a lot more practical though. It’s smaller and has retractable pins which prevent any damage and makes it an easier shape to pack.

We recommend checking the voltage of your destination countries beforehand as this may affect the adapter you should buy.

16. Bring an Empty Water Bottle in Your Carry-On Bag

Once you’re through customs, buying water is incredibly overpriced. One of our favourite travel packing tips is to bring an empty water bottle that you can fill up before getting on the plane.

Hydroflask makes the best water bottles for travel. We love ours, they are extremely durable, packable and keep drinks warm or cold thanks to the insulation. The only issue is the weight, a tradeoff ultralight travellers may not wish to make.  

Our favourite is the wide-mouth Hydroflask with straw .  It’s the most convenient and keeps drinks warm/cold for hours.  

Some of the more sustainable travellers we’ve met have opted for the Grayl GeoPress which allows them to drink tap water anywhere in the world and filter it quickly in the bottle.

17. Consolidate Chargers With a GAN Charger

GAN chargers are a life changing innovation that now allow travellers to charge multiple, high-powered devices from one charger. 

Our favourite for most people is this Amazon Basics 2-Port GAN Charger . It offers two ports, one with enough power to charge your cellphone and another high-powered port for charging a laptop.

We have a lot of high-powered devices so we use this more powerful Anker GAN Charger which is an absolute beast.

18. Pack Shoes in Shower Caps

You never know what’s on the underside of your shoes so don’t let this touch your suitcase. Instead, place shoes in shower caps (these are sometimes provided in your hotel room) or simply opt for a plastic bag.

19. Choose Multi-Purpose Items

It is efficient to pack items that can serve multiple purposes, so you can cut back on what you have to bring. This will help free up extra space for other items and stay under your weight limit.

There will be an upfront cost if you don’t already own these items, but it’s totally worth it if you’re looking to maximise your baggage space and pack your suitcase efficiently.

Sarong: Great to wear to the beach, use a picnic blanket or for covering up when visiting a temple.  A lightweight sarong will get a lot of use on your trip.

Snap-lock bags: make your bag leak-proof from toiletries, keep small items from getting lost, store dirty laundry and store shoes to keep the soles off your clothes. You can even attempt to use them as compression cubes.

Paper clip: keep your travel documents together but also use it to get your sim card out of your phone.

Bulldog Clips: keep your travel documents together and use them to cover your razor and toothbrush.

Safety pins: these come in handy to mend clothing, attach wet laundry and remove a splinter. I use these to pin a secret pocket to the inside of my pants so I have money available in an emergency.

Coconut Oil: Coconut oil has so many uses. A moisturiser, lip balm, sunburn relief, leave-in hair conditioner, and even shaving cream. A little goes a long way so you won’t need to pack much at all.

20. Build a Travel First Aid Kit

This is probably the only item in your suitcase that you hope you’ll never have to use, but you should definitely have on hand.  I know I was glad when I injured myself on a hike in New Zealand !

We’ve built up our own first aid kit to ensure we only brought the absolute essentials. However, there are plenty of options you can buy online. 

This First Aid Only First Aid Kit is a great option for people looking for something they can buy once without needing to buy individual items. Just bear in mind, it may contain a few extra items that you may not need (you can always take them out)

To save money and maximise space in your bags, we’d recommend you make one up and only take what you need. Our kit doesn’t take up much room at about  7” x 5” x 3”.

This is what’s inside ours:

• Medications: Ibuprofen, paracetamol, imodium, sore throat lozenges, antihistamines and cold/flu tablets
• Antiseptic cream for cuts/grazes
• Antihistamine cream for mosquito bites
• Band-aids/plasters
• Alcohol swabs to clean wounds
• Oral rehydration sachets for dehydration or food poisoning
• Small pair of scissors
• Sewing equipment: Needle, thread, buttons and safety pins

We carry this in our daypacks daily for that ‘just-in-case’ moment. If you do the same, remember to remove the scissors, needle and safety pins from your carry-on luggage before flying.

21. Keep Like Items Together

When going through airport customs, the last thing you want to do is fish around your bag looking for all your liquids. Don’t be that person who holds up the line! Keep everything together in a ziplock bag and it’ll make life so much easier.

This also goes for things like cables, camera gear, toiletries etc. It just makes it easier when looking for something in your bags.

22. Reduce Weight by Wearing Bulky Items On The Plane

If you’re aiming to pack efficiently, try wearing your bulkiest items on the plane. This automatically frees up space in your suitcase.

My partner got a mid-thigh length duffle coat tailored in Vietnam. Wearing this home on the plane saved about ⅛ of our baggage space. Planes are always air-conditioned and it can get quite cold. You should always bring a jacket anyway, so wear your bulkiest one on the flight and you’ll save even more space.

This doesn’t just apply to coats and jackets. Think sunhats (which can also be awkward shapes to pack) and bulky boots.

23. Consider Clothing Material & Colours

This is an easy way to reduce the amount of clothing you need to bring, especially if you are packing for a long vacation. Packing neutral clothing makes it easier to match with and thus allowing for more outfit combinations. 

If you love wearing colour, consider packing colourful dresses that you’d wear by themselves, whilst sticking to neutral t-shirts and bottoms that you can mix and match easily.

It’s also a good idea to choose lightweight clothing materials to reduce weight in your suitcase.  Materials like merino wool and synthetic sports fabrics are super lightweight and great in hotter areas.

24. Pack Heavy Items at the Bottom of Your Suitcase

It’ll be easier to wheel around your suitcase if you pack the heavier items at the bottom. Pack toiletries and shoes at the bottom of your suitcase. If you have any lightweight or fragile items then it is a good idea to pack these securely at the top.

25. Dry Your Laundry on a Travel Line

Holidays longer than 10 days will usually require doing the laundry at some point.

Pegs take up a lot of room, whereas a piece of string on its own doesn’t cut it especially if you’re hanging clothes outside and don’t want anything to blow away or disappear.

This Sea to Summit clothesline is woven together tightly, allowing you to attach your laundry securely (just stick a corner or each clothing through the holes) without using pegs.  We find it better than the ones with suction cups (which end up falling off).

How to Pack a Suitcase

The best way to pack a suitcase is to use a combination of rolling clothes, packing cubes and lightweight travel items. These packing tips will enable you to maximize the space inside your suitcase allowing you to pack more for your trip.

How to Pack Clothes to Save Space in Your Bag

The best way to pack clothes is to use the fold and roll technique. Start by folding your garments into a rectangle, then roll them into a tight cylinder the width of your packing cubes.

In addition to this, aim to pack small and light-weight clothing in your bags– you should leave the bulky items at home. Here are a few tips for how to pack clothes to save space:

• Fold & roll clothes
• Narrow down your must-have clothes
• Only bring light-weight, small garments
• Pack clothing in packing cubes
• Bring clothes with multiple purposes

How to Pack Shoes

The best way to pack your shoes in a suitcase is by isolating them in a separate bag. Start by ensuring your shoes are clean and as odour-free as possible before flipping them and placing them inside a plastic or fabric bag with the soles facing out. Lastly, place this bag in the bottom corner of your suitcase.

An extra tip is to fill the shoes with small items of clothing such as socks. We also aim to compress the shoes as much as possible by pushing other items up against them.

How to Pack a Suitcase for a Flight

Packing a suitcase for a flight requires packing as densely as possible, without going above the airlines’ weight limits. Follow tips such as rolling, using packing cubes and packing small, lightweight items.

In addition to the tips on this list, we highly recommend researching your airline’s luggage requirements. Ensure your suitcase is within the physical dimensions allowed and the final weight of your luggage doesn’t exceed the limits.

Does Rolling Clothes Save Space?

Rolling your clothes when packing will save space inside your suitcase. Folding alone can help to keep things organized, but will cause air pockets making it difficult to fit as many garments in. 

How to Pack Shoes in a Suitcase

The best way to pack shoes in a bag is by isolating them in a separate bag. Start packing by ensuring your shoes are clean and as odour-free as possible before flipping them and placing them inside a plastic or fabric bag with the soles facing out. Lastly, place this bag in the bottom corner of your suitcase.

Should You Unpack or Live Out of Your Suitcase?

For shorter trips the time and effort of unpacking and repacking your bags typically doesn’t outweigh the organisational benefits of having your bags unpacked at your destination.

When you spend over a week in a destination you can start to see some of the benefits of unpacking your suitcase.  However, we would typically recommend following the packing tips above to keep your suitcase well organised.  This should make it easy to find what you need without unpacking.

If you do choose to unpack your bags, make sure to keep track of where you store your items as you run a higher risk of leaving something behind.

Table of Contents

Leave a comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Really this is a fabulous post for me to move first time with my essential material to my new destination.

Get Daily Travel Tips & Deals!

By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use .

The Ultimate Packing List

Christine Sarkis

Ashley Rossi

There's a 95 percent chance Senior Editor Christine Sarkis is thinking about travel right now. Follow her on Instagram @postcartography and Twitter @ChristineSarkis .

Christine Sarkis is an SATW-award-winning journalist and executive editor at SmarterTravel. Her stories have also appeared on USA Today, Conde Nast Traveler, Huffington Post, and Business Insider. Her advice has been featured in dozens of print and online publications including The New York Times , Conde Nast Traveler , and People magazine. She has also shared travel tips on television and radio shows including Good Morning America, Marketplace, and Here & Now. Her work has been published in the anthologies Spain from a Backpack and The Best Women's Travel Writing 2008 . She is currently working on a travel memoir.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : The Trtl Pillow . It's easy to pack and comfortable, and makes it so I can actually sleep on flights.

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : Seeing the Aurora Borealis from the comfort of somewhere warm, like a glass igloo or hot spring.

Travel Motto : Curiosity is an amazing compass.

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : Aisle all the way.

Email Christine Sarkis at [email protected] .

Ashley Rossi is always ready for her next trip. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram for travel tips, destination ideas, and off the beaten path spots.

After interning at SmarterTravel, Ashley joined the team full time in 2015. She's lived on three continents, but still never knows where her next adventure will take her. She's always searching for upcoming destination hotspots, secluded retreats, and hidden gems to share with the world.

Ashley's stories have been featured online on USA Today, Business Insider, TripAdvisor, Huffington Post, Jetsetter, and Yahoo! Travel, as well as other publications.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "A reusable filtered water bottle—it saves you money, keeps you hydrated, and eliminates waste—win-win."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : "A week in a bamboo beach hut on India's Andaman Islands."

Travel Motto : "Travel light, often, and in good company."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Window—best view in the house."

Travel Smarter! Sign up for our free newsletter.

Packing mishaps range from inconvenient (heading to the Caribbean without a swimsuit) to disastrous (discovering you left the country without your wallet), but most are preventable. We’ve created this ultimate packing list to help you pack well every time.

The Ultimate Packing Checklist

To see the ultimate packing list, scroll down the page or click here for an editable PDF version that you can save or print out. To customize the list, simply download or print it, then edit for your specific needs. You can also download the editable, mobile-friendly checklist here .

Clothes to Pack

• Dress Shirts
• Casual Shirts
• Sweatshirts
• Laundry Kit
• Leisure Shoes
• Hiking Boots
• Dress Shoes
• Collapsible Tote

Shop Our Clothing Packing List

Toiletries to Pack

• Dental Floss
• Conditioner
• Styling Tools
• Facial Cleanser
• Face Lotion
• Moisturizer
• Contact Lenses
• Contact Solution
• Shaving Supplies
• Makeup Remover
• Menstrual Products
• Birth Control/Medication
• Nail Clippers
• Hand Sanitizer
• First-Aid Ointment
• Insect Repellent
• Pain Relievers

Shop Our Toiletries Packing List

Miscellaneous Items

• Laptop/Tablet
• Film/Memory Card
• List of Medications
• Banking Contacts/Information
• Electronic Chargers
• Emergency Contacts
• Copy of Passport
• Plug Adapter

Shop Our Miscellaneous Items List

What to Pack in Your Carry-on

• Books or E-Books
• Travel Blanket
• Travel Pillow
• Disinfecting Wipes
• Change of Clothes
• Empty Water Bottle
• In-Flight Medications
• Passport/Visa/ID
• Credit/ATM cards
• Insurance Cards
• Maps/Directions

Shop Our Carry-On Essentials List

Packing Tips for Clothes and Other Items

When packing for a vacation the most important things to keep in mind are the length of your trip, the weather, and any non-standard clothing or gear you might need.

Your first step when packing is to decide if you’ll be checking a bag or only taking a carry-on and then curate the amount of clothing you’ll need based on that decision. Typically, you should avoid checking a bag in situations where you have a layover since the likelihood of your bag going missing goes up with every connection . You might also want to avoid checking a bag if you absolutely need items in your bag on arrival—for example, if you’re going on a cruise.

If you’re packing more minimally, focus on packing layering clothes in more neutral colors. That’s not because we don’t like fun colors and patterns; it just means that neutral-colored clothing is more versatile, so you can wear these items more than once when you’re tight on space.

How to Pack in Just a Personal Item Sized Bag

Also invest in clothing that does double duty, like multi-use wraps , crushable hats , self-cooling and heating fabrics like merino wool layers , bug-repellent clothing , wrinkle-resistant shirts, quick-drying activewear and undergarments, casual sneakers, UPF-proof clothing , and compressible jackets … just to name a few. Look toward popular athleisure brands like Lululemon , prAna , and Athleta for comfortable yet stylish travel clothing.

When curating your packing list, you should keep in mind the length of your trip and decide on quantities from there. For a shorter trip (three to five days), you can probably manage with the following: one pair of underwear and socks per day, one pair of pajamas, one to two dressier outfits, one to two activewear or athleisure outfits, one to two casual outfits, and one to two pairs of shoes. For a longer trip (over a week), you can manage with one pair of underwear and socks per day, two pairs of pajamas, three dressier outfits, three to four casual outfits, two pairs of shoes, and two activewear or athleisure outfits.

And if you’re able to do laundry on your vacation, you can probably manage with even fewer items. Just don’t forget to pack a travel laundry kit .

Scrubba Untouched Review

Also make sure to bring along accessories like a money belt, scarf or sarong (can be used for things like an airplane blanket , coverup at the beach, or to throw over your dress on a cool evening), and a collapsible tote or day bag for any extra items you might acquire on your travels. If traveling to a city or destination that is prone to pickpocketing, make sure to pack some pickpocket-proof clothing and gear .

Depending on the type of trip you’re going on, you may need to invest in some special travel gear. We’ve tested out everything from waterproof baby carriers to interchangeable heels , so you can trust our recommendations. If you’re headed out on an organized group tour , you’ll most likely get a packing list from the tour provider, which should make your trip planning easier. If not, do your research online (one tip is to look at locations on Instagram and see what people are wearing) and consult this story for other handy lists of tips.

For more active trips, make sure you have a sturdy pair of hiking boots, quick-drying clothing, a day pack, snacks, and any necessary equipment. Check out our specific packing lists for hiking trips and camping trips .

The 5 Most Crowded National Parks (and Where to Go Instead)

Another type of trip that you may need to pack slightly specific items for is a cruise . Make sure you pack non-standard items like seasickness remedies, formal wear, dress shoes, and your bathing suit. Beach vacations also require different items like water shoes, towels, sunscreen, and maybe even snorkel gear. Luckily for you, we also have a specific cruise packing list and a beach vacation packing list .

Lastly, you need to consider the weather. For warm-weather destinations like jungles and Caribbean islands, you can obviously skip the coats and gloves, but if you’re headed out on a ski vacation then you’ll need a whole slew of things like goggles, a neck gaiter, snow boots, and more. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with a specific Caribbean vacation packing list , a Mexico vacation packing list , and even a ski trip packing list .

The Best Ski Hotels in the US

To help keep things organized, we love using packing cubes and/or compression sacks. They’re especially useful for when you’re traveling to multiple destinations in one trip.

Wondering how to pack all of your items? Enter the great debate of the rolling vs. folding method! While this is definitely a personal preference, we put two editors to the test to find out which method is in fact, more space-saving. Watch the video below to see the answer.

How to Pack Toiletries and Medications

Whether it’s important medication or your favorite lipstick, forgetting any type of toiletry can range from being mildly inconvenient to becoming a serious problem. For toiletries, make sure to pack your essentials, like medication, contacts, and any other items that you might not be able to purchase or replace during your travels. (Put them in your carry-on bag, not your checked suitcase.) However, if you forget items like a toothbrush or razor, you can typically call the front desk at the hotel for a spare.

We also recommend traveling with some type of a travel first-aid kit , which includes items like tweezers, first-aid ointment, bandages, travel-sized hand sanitizer, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Make sure to check TSA guidelines if you’re traveling with medication , as well as the policies and regulations at your destination.

Packing Tips for Everything Else …

Traveling without tech items like your phone, laptop, tablet, or camera can be a major bummer. For those traveling abroad, you’ll also want to remember to pack electronic adapters and converters . Other tech-related items for photographers to pack are a sturdy camera bag , backup batteries, and memory cards, as well as lens cleaner. And don’t forget smartphone essentials like a backup charger, waterproof case if you’re headed out on the water, and a phone stand or tripod for photos.

A travel packing tip we’ve learned the hard way? Travel with a copy of your passport, credit card, and bank contacts, as well as a list of medications and your emergency contacts.

If you are traveling abroad, we have an entire checklist for you, but the most important thing to note here is your passport and visas . Make sure that your passport is up to date, has as least six months of validity, and has enough blank pages for any stamps. Another tip for international travel? Give yourself plenty of time to apply for any visas that you might need and to arrange for a visit to a travel clinic if any special medications or vaccines are needed. You should also familiarize yourself with any remaining COVID-19 travel restrictions at your destination.

There are also some items that you may not think to pack, but should, like an electronic tracker , duct tape , toilet paper, a decoy wallet, or a whistle.

The 10 Best Expandable Suitcases

What to Always Pack in Your Carry-on Bag

In case you’re separated from your checked bag or other items, you should always make sure that you have your ID, wallet, house keys, medications, valuables, camera, phone, laptop, tablet, pen, cash and cards, glasses, and copy of your itinerary with you on the plane.

Other items that you might want to have handy with you include entertainment for your flight, comfort-promoting items like a blanket or pillow, as well as an empty water bottle to fill up post-security (here is a list of our favorites ), a change of clothes (just in case your luggage is lost or delayed), snacks, and gum.

If you’re looking to pack carry-on only, you guessed it: We also have a separate packing list and tips for that, as well as the best bags to use for carry-on only .

What to Pack to Stay Healthy While Traveling

The pandemic has significantly changed the way we travel and, by extension, the items we prioritize in our luggage. While many destinations have loosened or entirely lifted COVID-19 restrictions, some venues and events may still require a mask or proof of vaccination/negative COVID test to enter. Plan ahead to see if any activities on your itinerary have restrictions in place.

Sanitizing wipes and hand sanitizer , while always a good idea to have on hand at the airport , have become absolute carry-on musts. Wiping down areas like your tray table, airplane seat armrest, and hotel television remote can spare you from a variety of common travel bugs.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2013. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. Ashley Rossi contributed to this story.

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them.

You Might Also Like:

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

Top Fares From

Don't see a fare you like? View all flight deals from your city.

Today's top travel deals.

Brought to you by ShermansTravel

Madrid to Malaga: 8-Nt Southern Spain...

Luxe, 12-Night Spain, France, Monaco &...

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Ohio: Daily Car Rentals from Cincinnati

Trending on SmarterTravel

The Ultimate Guide: What to Pack For Airline Travel

Posted on Published: 08/27/2023

Air travel can be stressful, especially once you are on the flight. With decreasing seat sizes and less and less legroom, even the most petite traveler can feel cramped and uncomfortable.

For overnight flights and/or long flights, it’s essential that you pack smart, and bring airplane essentials so that you can be as comfortable as possible while flying. You’ll probably need a few things in flight – either for personal reasons or for entertainment.

Packing does take some advanced work. With limited space in the overhead bins, fees for checked luggage, and the possibility of lost luggage , packing for a flight is important.

I recommend that you start with a packing list, and then check your airline’s website to see what the fees are for various bags. Once you know that, you can decide which type of bags to pack. Be sure to check size and weight restrictions as well as the fees.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. A purchase/click through one of these links may result in a commission paid to us at no additional cost to you.

What To Pack for Airline Travel

According to the FAA regulations, you’ll be able to bring one carry-on bag that fits in the overhead bins, and one personal item that can be placed in the seat in front of you. Personal items can be things like handbags, computer bags, briefcases, small backpacks, and diaper bags.

With a personal item, the big factor is that it must be able to fit in the seat in front of you. Some airlines may have different size restrictions.

In addition, your airline (especially budget airlines or discounted rates on other airlines) may charge for overhead space, or it may be unavailable by the time you board the plan. Therefore, it’s important that you pack anything absolutely essential in your personal item bag.

I have had a carry-on lost before – it was checked on the plane because there was no more overhead space, and it never made it onto the flight. Keep in mind, also, that lithium-ion batteries can’t be checked, so these should also be removed if you have to check the bag.

Because of the possibility of lost luggage – on both domestic flights and international flights, I recommend using AirTags (if you use Apple devices). Our bags were lost twice last year and it was helpful to see that they were lost as we waited at baggage claim.

We put them on both our carry on baggage (that may possibly be checked) as well as our checked baggage.

Carry On Bag

The carry on bag is where you should place heavier and bulkier items. There are specific airline regulations for how large your carry-on can be.

International flights may have different rules for your carry-on bag, so it’s a good idea to look up that information before packing. Keep in mind that you will have to lift it over your head and ensure that it fits in the overhead bin and that the bin can be closed.

Flying on a small, regional jet? Those smaller planes have much smaller overhead space, so sometimes you’ll have to check a larger carry-on item.

To make the most out of your carry-on bag, there are some packing tips you can consider. Rolling your clothes can help more fit in the bag and can also keep them from getting wrinkled.

Packing cubes are also a great idea, and you can roll your clothes right into the bag. Then you can place it in your carry on bag.

I like to put my shoes at the bottom of the bag and arrange them so they are as flat as possible. If your shoes are dirty (or could get dirty at your destination), you may want to put them in separate shoe bags (you can find these on Amazon , or can use things like shower caps or plastic bags).

If you aren’t checking a bag, you’ll need to pack your carry-on luggage with your toiletries. According to current Transportation Security Administration regulations (TSA regulations), you can only have one quart-sized bag of liquids, gels, and aerosols, and each container must be 3.4 ounces or less.

You’ll either have to purchase travel-sized items or put items from a larger container into a smaller one that fits the regulations. I really like Cadence capsules – while they are expensive, they don’t leak and are easy to fill.

If you pack a reusable water bottle, remember that it must be empty when you go through the security checkpoint. You can fill it up once you are past security.

While I generally recommend putting any essentials in your underseat bag , if you do decide to put any in your carry-on bag, they should be at the top. That way, you can remove them if your bag has to be checked at the last minute. You’ll also have access to them during the flight if they are in front of you.

Underseat Bag

You’ll store your personal item (or underseat bag) under the seat in front of you. If, however, you are seated in a row section where you have the bulkhead in front of you (and not a seat), the flight attendant will tell you that you’ll need to place this item in the overhead bins for take-off and landing.

I often find this to be inconvenient, although you’ll probably have the benefit of more legroom in these seats. It’s a trade-off you’ll have to consider.

Your personal bag should contain your really important and valuable items, like your wallet, boarding pass, medication (especially prescription medications), driver’s license, travel documents, and paperwork, as well as anything you’ll want to have for your flight.

This would include a book/eReader, a portable charger, phone charger , lip balm, computer, airplane snacks, credit card, hand sanitizer, wipes to clean the tray table, armrests, and seat, computer, toys (if traveling with young kids), etc.

Overnight/Long Flights

If you are packing for air travel that is on a red-eye flight or a long flight, you’ll probably want to include some flight essentials to ensure you are comfortable.

As I’ve gotten older, I’ve found that it’s extremely difficult to get comfortable in a coach-class seat for some long-haul flights or a red-eye flight. So it’s important to have the right items so you can at least get a little comfortable.

Here are some of my favorite red-eye travel essentials (available at Amazon):

Eye Mask (If you are sensitive to light and want near-complete darkness, a sleep mask can be helpful)

Pillow (I don’t like the U-shaped ones – regardless of what travel pillow you bring make sure you put it in your carry on bag and not directly on the germ-filled airport security belt)

Personal blanket – I love this wearable one because it has a pocket and won’t slide off of you.

Foot cradle

Comfortable clothes – make sure you are as comfortable as possible. While passengers once dressed to impress, it’s now more important to be comfortable.

Change of clothes – You may want to change if you aren’t going right to your hotel room at your final destination. Even a change of underwear can be a good idea. Or, if your bags are lost, it’s good to have at least one set of clothes (more if you can fit them).

Reusable water bottle – You may want some water when you are on your flight – especially on a long-haul flight. You can bring an empty water bottle through security and then fill it once you are past security.

Ear plugs or noise-canceling headphones – if you are sensitive to noise. My last two international flights had some very loud passengers and I was glad to have my noise-cancelling AirPods.

If you are taking a red eye, you’ll probably find that these items, in addition to the other essentials, really fill up your personal item. In that case, you can place them in a separate bag (tote or plastic bag) on top of your overhead bag.

Then, once you are ready to use them, you can pull them out of your bag without having to open the entire suitcase. You won’t need much of these items at your destination, so you can tuck them away once you arrive to maximize space.

Hopefully, these tips help you prepare for your next flight, especially any long trips you have planned. If we’ve left out anything you’d recommend, please leave us a comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

60 Travel Packing Tips from the Experts

Packing , Packing Tips

Support TFG by using the links in our articles to shop. We receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) so we can continue to create helpful free content. We earn from qualifying purchases made to the featured retailers. Thank you, we appreciate your support!

I am excited to share these travel packing tips with you! This is the collaborative effort of over 50 of the best travel bloggers in the business! From travel wardrobe basics to practical tools and ideas, these expert packing tips reveal a treasure trove of information sure to make your trip planning easier. Pack light and pack smart!

60 Travel Packing Tips

Sleep Mask by Bedtime Bliss

Packing Tips for Comfort on Flights

If you travel regularly, keep the basics in your backpack . It saves a lot of time! Don’t forget earplugs, a light scarf, medicines, a sleeping mask, and little scissors! A World to Travel

Bring lip balm, ear plugs, a notepad, and panty liners for long flights . The liners help prevent yeast infections and doubles the life of your underwear.  Green Global Travel

My friend From Zurich shares her top packing tips: Bring a scarf because they are so multifunctional! You can use it if it’s cold, if you need to cover up, to sit on, and more. On plane trips, I must have: a small toiletry bag with eye drops, moisturizer, sanitizer, aspirin, and ear plugs. The ear plugs can block out loud snorers in dorms.

If you’re facing an upcoming trip with an extremely long travel time, our readers share their best tips on how to survive long flights !

Packing Cubes

Packing Tips for Travel Organizers & Travel Bags

Use colored packing cubes  to organize your clothes. That way, you can pull out the “shirts” bag quickly without searching and dumping out an entire backpack. Around the World in 80 Jobs

Don’t bother with those fancy, expensive travel towels . Instead, get a sarong. It’s cheap and multi-use: use it as a wrap, lay it out for picnics or sunbathing, or dry off with it. They’re super light and dry quickly, even in humid places. For packing, invest in packing cubes ! They make packing and living out of a suitcase/backpack more organized and much easier. It’s one of my best packing tips.  1 Dad 1 Kid

Bring a range of see-through plastic bags with you. They are useful for keeping dirty or wet clothes separate from clean clothes, replacing lost cosmetics bags, storing souvenirs, keeping dirty shoes contained, and just generally keeping your backpack organized without needing to empty it every time you want to find something. Plastic bags are very useful if you like to compartmentalize, like I do. Vicky Flip Flop Travels

Always pack a few plastic baggies in different sizes. They are great for swiping food for lunch from the buffet breakfast or for saving the seashells your child collected. As a bonus, bring a small, collapsible cooler with a baggie filled with ice from the hotel to keep your lunch cold or to refrigerate something you pick up from the store for later. There and Back Again Travel

Always carry a huge garbage bag (clean, of course!) in your backpack’s top pocket. You never know when you’ll need to protect your backpack from a downpour or from wandering hands in your hostel.  Solitary Wanderer

My best advice when it comes to packing: ziplocs! I keep everything in ziploc bags–from toothpaste to shampoo to sunblock–to prevent them from damaging my clothes or electronics. It’s a cheap and easy solution to make sure your face cream doesn’t stain your favorite jeans! Beatrice BP

I put together a  five-part YouTube series  showing you the different methods to use packing cubes . If you use  this  specific packing strategy, they can also compress your belongings and travel capsule wardrobe . This is the secret to traveling carryon only!

Compression Sack

I pack my daily supplements and vitamins in small ziploc bags to reduce bottle bulk. Geogypsy Traveler

It’s one of the often-repeated packing tips but seriously– a bunch of bags to separate out your clothes will prove invaluable. Compression sacks, packing cubes , or just stuff sacks–use them to keep things organized and smush clothes into a smaller bundle. Just make sure they’re not plastic! Chasing the Wild

Make sure all your liquid items are in bags or separated from the rest of your things. That way, if one of the bottles gets damaged, it won’t get all over your entire wardrobe! The Kay Days

Instead of plastic bags, use cloth hotel laundry bags for storage. They are reusable, washable, and don’t make that annoying rustling sound if you find yourself in a hostel in the middle of the night searching for something. Man on the Lam

Use compression bags to pack your clothes . Not only do they save space in your bag, but they also double as waterproofing for valuables when you’re out exploring.  Flip Flops Abroad

Space bags are great, but don’t forget you’ll need to go through that process every  time you open your bag. Is it worth it? It’s One World Travel

Here’s the  best packing organizers  for travel!

Delsey Helium Aero Carry On Luggage

Travel Packing Tips and Tricks

Roll stuff, don’t fold it; it seems to take up less space, in my experience. Also, leave at least half of what you were going to take behind; you’re not going to need it. You won’t believe me and you’ll take it anyway, because everyone does, at least the first few times. Finding the Universe

I always roll my clothes because it takes up less space and makes them less wrinkly. I also bring an extra pair of contact lenses, no matter how short the trip. I pack my glasses and a pair of underwear in my carryon in case of delayed luggage. Monkeys and Mountains

Pack elastic bracelets as they can double as hairbands and can be used to hold small items together. Also, I’ve never regretted taking packs of mini tissues. Southwest Compass

I like to bring a few sheets of tissue paper along. I use it to roll up anything that is likely to get wrinkled. Works great. Bond Girl Photos

Use a suitcase where you can strap your clothes down tightly. It works like an iron.  Boomeresque

Read these tips on packing cubes vs packing folders and find out what’s the best for you!

Shop Sizes XS-4X:  J.Jill

Packing Tips for Fashionistas

Packing light provides you and your trip flexibility . Therefore, I pack mostly black or blue jeans and clothes and provide color with scarves and accessories. I am also a confirmed “roller”. Family Travel

Bring the jeans, leave the heels. Make sure you bring the right bras. When you’re stacked, it can be a real challenge to make sure the girls are locked and lovely. My fave combo is one everyday bra, one sexy bra, and one sports bra. A bunch of packing tips in one shot!  It’s One World Travel

If you love your jeans, just pack them. No matter what else someone tells you—they take too long to dry, they smell bad wet, they are heavy—yes, they are all of those things…but they are also something you’ll likely wear every day on the road, just like at home. Oh, and use  packing cubes ! A Little Adrift

Our readers voted for the best black travel pants and these were their favorite styles!

Ruched Body-Con Tank Dress

Think twice about the hiking boots. Not only are they bulky and heavy, but I find that even when I’ve packed them in the past, I’ve felt more comfortable wearing a pair of Toms or Chucks. Unless you’re thinking about some serious hiking, you can get away with a much lighter (and more fashionable) shoe like this one .  That Backpacker

Bring a black or brown dress and tops with you. I call it the “safe” colors. You can wear them anytime, anywhere. Bringing one stiletto or high-heeled shoe helps, especially if you need to attend a formal event. In terms of packing, bring cotton tops and if you’re going to a tropical country, avoid bulky clothes. Senyorita

Be conservative with shoes. Even shoes that you normally consider comfortable may pinch your feet or give you blisters. Go for the most comfortable yet neutral shoes you can find, and make sure they’re broken in. Bring cuter shoes for short outings or evenings. This is My Happiness

Wherever you are going and in whatever climate, always, always have a posh frock and heels in case you need to dress up.  Escape Artistes

.Here’s the most comfortable and cute walking shoes for travel!

Plaid Blanket

No matter the climate I’m going to, I always travel with at least one scarf . It takes up virtually no room, and yet can have so many uses. A scarf can dress up a boring travel outfit, give you a bit of warmth in chilly locales, help you cover up in conservative destinations, and can even serve as a pillow or sarong in a pinch.  Dangerous Business

One of my top packing tips is to resist last minute urges to pack extras (like extra t-shirts). Allow 30 minutes extra time before you leave for the airport to edit what you’ve put in your bag. Aim to take at least three items out.  30 Traveler

I pack lots of scarves. They use practically zero room in a suitcase and are so versatile. They allow me to create multiple outfits from the same top and bottom by providing different colors and textures, and they also can serve as protection against the cold or sun. I have used a scarf as a picnic blanket and as something soft (or protective) to sit on. Also, I pick up scarves wherever I go so it turns into a travel moment, too! Misadventures with Andi

A little black dress, cute flats, and a shawl go a long way.  Nomadic Chick

Here are eight different ways to wear a scarf when you travel!

The Chrysalis Cardi

Lay out all the clothes you intend to take …then put half of them away! I’ve never regretted not taking any piece of clothing on a trip but I have regretted packing too much. Take double the amount of underwear that you think you’ll need. A girl can never have too many pairs of clean knickers.  Flashpacker Family

When in Asia, always travel with a scarf. It’s perfect for places that use a bit too much air conditioning (you can throw it over your shoulders) or wear it as a skirt if your clothing isn’t appropriate for temples. A scarf always makes clothing look a bit more put together. Asia Travel Tales

Bring versatile clothing that you can reuse in several outfits. I especially love wrap dresses that you can change from one-shouldered to halter to strapless and more!  Christine in Spain

Want to look good while you travel? Bring the same clothes and styles you love at home  as long as they’re reasonable and don’t take much space. I always travel with a skinny tie and skinny jeans (hipster essentials) because you never know when you’ll want to look good—even when abroad.  Travels of Adam

Find out exactly why these two piece sets are the perfect addition to any travel wardrobe!

Apple iPad Mini 4

Packing Tips for Families

One tip that’s probably been mentioned a lot, but I live by, is this: lots of layering options for the kids reduces the need to pack lots of warm clothes. By layering, it’s easy to modify their level of warmth. Having multiple short sleeve and long sleeve t-shirts are more space-friendly than carrying extra jackets, for example. Little Aussie Travellers

Your kids, especially toddlers, will ALWAYS need less than you think they will, especially when it comes to toys. An iPad or tablet plus a very small bag of favorite toys can get you to your destination, while the actual place you are visiting is often entertainment enough. With so many new sights and sounds to explore, you’ll find your toddler ditching that bag of cars you packed in exchange for every stick, rock, and leaf along the way. Walking on Travels

We are a family of four. When we pack, we roll everything (except jeans and thick pants); it does give you more space. The Q Family Adventures

Flying with a baby ? Don’t stress! We have some awesome tips from a jetsetting mom.

Trunki Original Kids Ride-On Suitcase and Carry-On Luggage

Traveling as a family of four, we use vacuum-sealed, airtight, and waterproof space bags for each individual. They compress clothes by squeezing the air out, they protect fabric from spills, and they are an easy way to separate everyone’s belongings. They’re also great for bulky items like sweaters and ski gear for winter trips. The World is a Book

My best packing tips for families: make the kids pack and carry their own stuff. Whatever tempting cool clothing they want to buy along the way, they know they have to carry. This saves mom’s and dad’s backs. Also, dark fabric shows fewer stains, needs less washing, and shows less wear.  The Nomadic Family

One of my best pet travel packing tips is to always bring your dog’s blankets and pillows and a few toys that smell like home. It keeps them calm in the car and lets them have a piece of home when sleeping in a different hotel every night. It’s the best way to have well-behaved, well-traveled pets. The Constant Rambler

Read this packing list for toddlers and babies  to make traveling with a family a breeze!

Titanium Spork

Packing Tips for Everyone

Leave space in your backpack or suitcase. Use the extra room for souvenirs and purchases you make during travel. Awe Inclusive

When you’re taking a short trip,  pack your old underwear and throw it away after you wear it. I also take clothing I’m tired of and leave it behind, too. I pack underwear and jewelry in my shoes. Edgy June Travels

Pack a spork to make your street food experiences easier and more enjoyable. Travel Gear for Men

Don’t forget the duct tape. You’ll find a million and one uses for it. My Itchy Travel Feet

Here’s a twist on an old standby in terms of packing tips: 3M has come up with a new type of  Scotch Transparent Duct Tape . It comes in various strengths, but it is not yet available in convenient mini-rolls. Savvy Traveling

Take a look at these 25 random travel necessities and find out if they make sense for your next trip!

Waterproof Dry Bag

Besides the normal things like clothing and body products, I take a traveling natural health kit. One of the key ingredients is essential oils: they’re great for natural first-aid, to ward off germs and bacteria, and even for a bit of scent (smaller than any perfume bottle). I use lemon oil as my hand sanitizer wherever I go. It’s easier to carry and better smelling than most products on the market. Santa Fe Travelers

I always have a thread and needle.  It’s one of the more classic packing tips. Not only can you patch up your clothing, you can exchange your services for free beer. Going Nomadic

The best day bag for travel is a dry bag like this one that can protect and store your valuables! We Heart Scuba Diving

String and cable ties –it’s unbelievable how many times they’ve come in handy! Magnificent Potato

I always pack a hypoallergenic pillow case (one that zips) to cover gross pillows, which often contain dust mites. And, of course, I pack a sleep sheet (some call it a “sack”) to protect me from bed linens I’d rather not touch.  Chicky Bus

Buy a universal adaptor rather than one suited only for the country you’re visiting. It saves money in the long run and gives you more travel flexibility (especially during airport layovers). Inside the Travel Lab

I always carry earplugs and a headlamp. You never know when you will need them. Ordinary Traveler

Find out our top 10 travel essentials for backpackers !

Osprey Packs Farpoint 55 Travel Backpack

I keep a “quick fix” kit in my cabinet and grab it for trips. It contains earplugs, a sleep mask, lip balm, ibuprofen, and extra contact lenses. I also bring flavored tea bags to relax with a cup of tea no matter where I am. As for clothing packing tips, I keep it simple with lots of black. It goes with everything and is difficult to stain!  Spanish Sabores

Buy a backpack that isn’t a top loader. Backpacks like the Berghaus Jalan and the Osprey Farpoint zip most of the way around and open like a suitcase, which makes getting to your stuff a lot easier! Gap Year Escape

Keep a list of all the items you need for a vacation  overseas or a weekend trip, as each type of trip requires different things to pack, especially electronics– chargers, lenses, memory cards, etc. A list means it’s less likely to be forgotten. Kiwi Travel Writer

The best item I’ve found is a  travel clothesline . If you’ll be hand-washing your clothes while traveling, it’s super convenient. SKJ Travel

Because we at Green Global Travel often venture to off-the-beaten-path destinations, it’s crucial that we pack light and carry clothes that can be washed and dried very easily. Green Global Travel

Have lip balm and your Speedo if you’re traveling in Europe. And always pack light is one of the golden packing tips! Dream Euro Trip

Want the ultimate guides for packing light? Read our Pack Light Stylishly book to get started and see our packing tips, and take our master class if you’re ready to Stop Overpacking !

A giant thank you to all the travel bloggers who shared their packing tips in this post!

If you have any travel packing tips to share, please add them in the comments below!

For more packing tips, please read:

• 75 Packing Tips that Will Make Your Travels So Much Easier
• This Video Will Change the Way You Pack 
• Packing Lists for (Almost) Every Destination
• Think Traveling Carry-on is Impossible? Read this

LIKED THIS POST? PIN THIS PIC TO SAVE IT!

Hope you liked this post on travel packing tips from the expert. Please share it with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, or Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

72 comments.

That’s quite an interesting article Alex, and I find it really useful, As a corporate traveller, packing things is literally hectic work, and I am going to follow your tips for my upcoming travels. Hope this parking trick could save some space.

Hi Gloria, thank you for your feedback, glad that you found the article helpful! Safe travels! 🙂

I found all the tips very useful, I use some of them. I would like to add a few I use. Packing bijoux jewelry, I pass necklaces through a straw to prevent tangling, put rings and earrings seperately in small ziplocks then all together in a small cosmetic pouch and into my suitcase. For expensive jewelery I put it in a small cufflink box which accomodates two diamond rings, a medium sized locket and a brooch. This protects them from being compressed. Then I carry it in my handbag in a small zippered compartment. Hope this may help somebody.

Hi, thank you so much for your comment! Thank you for sharing you great tips 🙂

That’s quite an interesting article Shari Melillo, and I find it really useful, As a corporate traveller, packing things is literally hectic work, and I am going to follow your tips for my upcoming travels. Hope this packing trick could save some space on air travel

Tips to save space in your suitcase

Roll the clothes instead of folding them. You can save your space and carry some extra items such as belt and pair of extra socks in your baggage.

Wear as much as you can rather than packing it. This doesn’t sound cool but it is one of the best trick. Wear extra clothes inside your over coat and later remove them once you are on your sear after boarding the flight. A little extra layer of clothes on your body will give you a lot of free space in your bag. Now you have some extra space in your suitcase to put some more items.

You can also use your pockets to hold small things rather than putting them in your luggage. You can even fold small clothing items and place them in large pockets of a jacket or cargo pants.

I just read this and must say, I should have done so a few weeks earlier 🙁

One thing I found interesting lately is to use tools for my packing. whattopackforatrip.com is one example but there are a few more. Can you do something like this too 🙂

Thanks for one marvelous posting! I enjoyed reading it, you are a great Writer. Keep up the wonderful works on. I’ve added you to my blogroll as well.

Glad seeing this kind of tips, make sure to bring a handy soap, roadeavour scented soap sheets is a must have!

I also think packing with capsule wardobe principles is also very effective.

Glad you agree! All of our packing lists are based on a capsule wardrobe: https://travelfashiongirl.com/packing-lists/

Great tips! I agree that rolling your clothes make them take up less space.

Thanks Andy!

Like one of your correspondents above said – practice pack and pitch. Any old clothes that are serviceable but may have a spot or are heavily worn get packed and pitched along the way. You can always tie a scarf so it covers a spot and you’re never going to see these people again. Your pitch will equal your stuff purchased. And stuff left in Peru, mark it trash bastuda, doesn’t worm its way back into your closet. I also just purchased an Elizabeth and Clarke unstainable tshirt and can’t wait to see if they work well.

Great tips! Thanks Marilyn!

when staying in a hotel, just below the peephole in the door, there is usually a sign describing protocol for emergencies. next to this sign is (usually) a card inserted with room prices, check-out times, etc. pull this card halfway out and use it to cover the peephole for privacy. this gave me peace of mind when my young daughter and I traveled alone. an alternative would be to cover the peephole with a small piece of blue painter’s tape. I also locked and bolted the door and placed the (empty) plastic trash can a few inches from the door before we went to bed. this would give us valuable seconds if someone tried to enter our room while we were asleep!

Thank you for your post. space while helping your bras maintain their shape by stacking them on on top of each other. You can even store you underwear inside of the cups.

Great tip Kyla!! Thanks for sharing!

A portable speaker is a great item to take with you. You can listen to music anywhere and even charge your phone with them.

That’s a great tip!

I always (always!) use a packing list for every trip and just tweak it each time based on where, when & how long the trip is. It’s divided into four sections.

Section 1 is for things I might need to have at the ready like passports, reservation paperwork, phone charger, antibacterial wipes, etc. This is basically my travel bag list.

Section 2 is for toiletries and rarely changes.

Section 3 is for planning outfits. I break it down with the itinerary for each day and what the expected weather will be, and then pre-plan out each outfit for each day/event, including belts, shoes and accessories. Keeping to this strict plan helps me from over-packing!

The fourth and final section is for anything extra, like a hat, gloves, undies, bras, etc. Also included in this section are little extras like small hand fans for hot & humid climates, a small baggie for the hotel remote control (one of the germiest things in your room), etc.

Great suggestions Pollyana! Thank you so much for sharing your method! Sounds like you’ve got packing down! Happy travels!

Traveling is a fun activity but doing it repeatedly can eventually tire a traveler down. Because of this, many frequent travelers have realized the importance of preparing luggage that allows one to carry necessary travel items without compromising comfort. Much of the challenges come from identifying the trip, choosing and prioritizing the items that will be brought according to the trip, and finding the right packing technique to ensure that the luggage that will accompany the traveler will not cause any discomfort.

Thanks for your message Lecitia! Great tips! Comfort is definitely most important when selecting what to bring and what luggage to bring it in. Thanks for reading! Safe travels!

So many people recommend rolling clothes instead of folding, and I’ve even tried the “military” style you can learn on YouTube videos. However, I still find correct folding (eg, the KonMari method) makes my suitcase so much more calm and organized. And fewer wrinkles.

It’s great that you’ve found the way that works best for you! Keep packing smart 🙂

My Husband and I are leaving for 90 days travel and I am keeping it to one roller thanks to a lot of the tips here.

Wow thank you Piccola 🙂 Have a wonderful journey!

I like to carry a backpack on the plane for all my stuff. Instead of dealing with a purse AND a backpack, I just put my necessary purse contents (wallet, smartphone, meds, etc.) in the backpack and pack my purse in my suitcase.

Perfect strategy!

I always bring a few wooden clothespins. I need the room very dark to sleep and the clothespins sometimes are perfect to hold a drape together. Of course they can be used in the obvious ways hand clothes to dry off a hangar or towel rack.

good tip! I’ve met travelers with plastic ones but wooden plastic it’s all the same 🙂

I try to lay out everything I want to pack, including cosmetic bag, etc., then live with it, at home, for the amount of time I’m going to be gone. Anything that doesn’t get used doesn’t go in the suitcase, and it’s an easy way to see if everything fits together. Takes discipline to do this, but it’s a good reality check.

That is dedication but if you do it once, you can keep reusing the same things for future trips. Great tip!

Alex, can you give me few tips regarding packing fine jewelry on business trip

great timing! have an article publishing on July 9th with your answer – stay tuned!

Great tips from everyone this is really going to help me this summer other thing when you make a list make sure you check off the important things first like start off with carry on luggage essentials any way this is my favorite site to go to when I’m having trouble packing oh almost forgot make your luggage noticble by putting ribbons and shoelaces so that way you would not have to worry when you get to the airport

I am not so sure if I shared this compilation on my page before, but I’m glad to see my tips and advice on this post now 😛

When going on a vacation where swimming is involved, I pack a lightweight, cheap or well used towel. Then, if I want to swim after the noon checkout time, I give away the wet towel at the end of the day.

Another useful and small, lightweight item is a little sponge (the little pink, yellow or green ones). They are incredibly useful, take almost zero room, and save towels if the floor gets wet.

I’ve been looking everywhere for a blog like this… finally 🙂

Glad you found it!

Great list – I thought I’d add that I always travel with a black and a grey tank top. They are perfect for layering if you are cold, sleeping in OR for modesty.

I agree, great to have some basics. Thanks!

Awesome tips! I am leaving for London on Wednesday for two weeks with my school, and these tips will help me pack and lower my anxiety over it! (: Thanks so much for this blog post, I really appreciate it! (:

Thanks Kelly! Glad to help 🙂

You also might find this post helpful: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/what-to-pack-for-london-on-your-trip-to-the-united-kingdom/

Loads of helpful stuff there – thanks. Glad to know that I am amongst fellow rollers and ziplockers!

Thanks Bernie! Rolling is the way to go 🙂

Thanks for including my duct tape tip. I’ll be linking to this list in our February newsletter.

Thanks Donna! Duct tape has endless uses – I especially like to use it to help prop up the massive universal adapters/converters into the outlet. Thanks again!

I am a first time visitor. I enjoyed your blog some great tips.

Thank you 🙂

What a great round-up post! Bookmarking this and will be using a few of these tips for the next trip. Thanks for including my tip 🙂

Thanks! Thanks for the tip 🙂

This is the best post on packing I’ve seen! (and not just cuz I got a nod, either) I especially love the last point made: “pack clothing you feel good wearing”

Thanks Laura! I hope I can get enough tips to make it to 100 🙂 high goals!

Thanks for including my tips! A bunch of great advice here from others.

Thanks Talon! What color is your sarong of choice? 🙂

Brilliant list! Thanks for including my tip!

Thanks Bethany and also for sharing your tip 🙂

I love these tips! I find an iphone invaluble for all of the language apps and google!

Thanks Stephanie. Hopefully you could use a few for your upcoming trip 🙂

Same here! Thanks and congrats for the article! 🙂

Thanks again! Great collaboration 🙂

Thanks for featuring my tip here, I love seeing what all the different range of travelers feel is important when packing! 🙂

Thanks for contributing Shannon! Great tips from everyone 🙂

Great tips! I have already bookmarked this for future reference. Thanks for including mine 🙂

Thank you! No matter how experienced you are, it’s still possible to pick up new tricks from others 🙂

I enjoyed reading your post full of great tips. Thanks for including mine. I’ve already tweeted your post.

Thanks Lisa! I’m happy with the turn out 🙂

So many great packing tips from knowledgeable travelers! Thanks for including mine 🙂

Thank you so much for contributing! 🙂

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

How to Pack a Backpack for Air Travel: 12 Must-Know Tricks

Hey there! Ever wonder how some folks just nail the travel game by sticking to a backpack? Let’s paint you a picture: You’re hustlin’ at the airport, bobbing and weaving through this massive crowd when bam – you spot someone smooth-sailing with just their carry-on. Shocking stuff, right?

Turns out, stuffing all your essentials in one bag isn’t an art – it shifts things up big time. Nowadays everyone seems to have cottoned on how handy backpacks are for zipping around airports. Think about flying past security checks like they’re no biggie or saying bye-bye to those pesky luggage fees while keeping all your loot within arm’s reach; Now that’s more than being good packers – it’s downright dominion over those pesky carry-on rules.

In our down-to-earth guide ‘ How to Pack a Backpack for Air Travel’, we’ve got something for everyone – whether you’re pinching pennies and want to dodge check-in costs, strive for that minimalist life, or tend to wander around with home on your back as a digital nomad.

So saddle up! We’re unlocking every trick in the book so packing doesn’t feel like rocket science anymore. Your journey should be as dope as where you end up going after all! It’s high time we learn how to zip it light, make peace with sparing ourselves from overweight charges, and live the dream of gliding along freely thanks to that trusty backpack.

Table of Contents

Choosing the Ideal Backpack for Air Travel

Getting ready to take a thrilling flight? One of the big choices you’ll be making is what backpack to bring along. Picking the right backpack can make your whole trip go smoothly, and help make sure you’ve got everything you need while soaring through the skies.

In this bit, we’re gonna guide you through all the important stuff to think about in the realm of air travel backpack packing, explore all kinds of different backpack styles, slip in a few insider secrets, and even chat about some sustainable options for those eco-smart flyers out there.

Key Features to Consider

Size Matters: When it’s time to jet off, you’ll want a backpack that fits the bill. Remember, size is everything when flying, so pick a carry-on bag that won’t give you attitude at the boarding gate. Smaller-scale means less stress and quicker check-ins – no more wrestling with those bulky suitcases.

Weight Considerations: Airlines are fussy about how heavy your bags can be–so keep things light! Choose a bag tough enough for travel but one that’s not going to weigh you down before you even take off.

Compartments Galore: No one likes playing treasure hunts while rummaging through their bag. An organized pack makes life easier – find pockets-a-plenty to put all your bits and bobs in order which would save your precious vacation time from turning into hide-and-seek episodes.

Comfort is Key: Your backpack will practically be glued to you during trips – make sure it’s comfortable! Hands-down winners have padded straps and supportive backs. Bonus if they’re adjustable too; nobody wants backache while sightseeing or trekking up airplane aisles.

Carry-On Restrictions: Different airlines = different rules on carry-on sizes (unfortunately!). To skip unwanted surprises at security checks, know what the bar is set at – choose a backpack compliant with these limits & breeze through border control!

Different Backpack Types

Travel-Specific Backpacks: If you’re always on the go, these backpacks have got your back! They’ve got cool compartments galore, are small enough to squeeze into overhead lockers, and above all – they’re comfy for those long-haul flights.

Hiking Backpacks: So maybe they’re not made especially for flying, but hiking backpacks tick a lot of boxes. They’re tough dudes that’ll last ages, with tons of space for your stuff plus they feel good even after you’ve had them on all day! Just make sure it’s cabin-friendly if this is your bag choice.

Convertible Backpacks: These bad boys can change from backpack to duffel bag or even shoulder bags in no time! This nifty trick has saved us more time than modern GPS when traveling around.

Pro Tips: Lesser-Known Features to Look For

Hidden Compartments: Some bags come with hush-hush pockets or hidden stashes – so clever right? It’s a sneaky way to hide away important things and outsmart any curious eyes.

Water Bottle Pockets: Don’t forget to drink water folks! Bags with outer water bottle holders let you grab a drink without much fuss. Keep sipping!

Lockable Zippers: Lockable zippers add that extra layer of “stay safe” particularly in packed places where sneaky hands might be about.

Sustainable Backpack Options

If being green is big for you (and hey why wouldn’t it be?), hunt down bags made from recycled bits’n’bobs or crafted by brands who care as much about our planet as we do. More and more guys are making awesome sustainable options; going eco doesn’t mean ditching style or quality anymore. Do something great for Mother Earth while exploring her beauty!

Mastering Packing Essentials for Air Travel

Planning for air travel isn’t just about picking out the top-notch backpack; it’s all about nailing down the hack of packing a backpack for airplane travel in a smart way. In this chunk, you’ll get to discover cool ways of packing that help you squeeze more into your bag’s tiny quarters. Say hello to “Roll, Don’t Fold,” make friends with handy-dandy packing cubes, and conquer a bunch of other space-saving secrets! Welcome aboard onto smooth-sailing travels.

The “Roll, Don’t Fold” Method

This ain’t no new kid on the block! “Roll, Don’t Fold” has been an ace up many expert travelers’ sleeves since forever. It’s not only at war with wasted space but also fights away pesky clothes creases! Just start with biggies like jeans and jackets – fold ‘em lengthwise and then roll them tight from bottom to top. You’ll be left not just saving space but also being able to fish out exactly what you need without making a mess inside your backpack.

Packing Cubes: Organizational Wizards

Think packing cubes are mere dividers? Oh boy—you’d be wrong there! These zippered saviors come in different shapes and sizes and can bring order to the otherwise chaotic world of your backpack. Got tops? There’s one cube. Bottoms next, into another cube they go – even undies or accessories have their cozy corner sorted within smaller canvas condos! Trust us guys – invest in these babies; they won’t just keep your stuff trim and taut but will also speed up unpacking when you hit destination-awesome!

Compression Techniques: Maximizing Every Inch

Bet you didn’t know there’s an art to packing for a flight, and it’s all about getting crafty with squeezing stuff in. A cool trick? Use your clothes to jam-pack every inch of your backpack. Think about lobbing socks inside your shoes or coiling up belts and accessories into those sneaky empty spots. This isn’t just smart packing – it helps keep your backpack from looking like a hot mess too.

Unexpected Space Savers: Utilizing Every Pocket

Don’t kid yourself – You’ve ignored some potential payload places in that pack of yours; mesh pockets, hip compartments…heck even that awkward spot behind the zipper! They come in super handy when dealing with bits and bobs. Yeah, we’re talking accessories, toiletries or even chucking in a skinny scarf if it fits! It doesn’t only help stuff more things but also stops you from digging through everything when you need something real quick.

Because let’s face it- The whole aim here is not trying to cram as much garbage as possible (let’s leave that for Tetris), but being clever about what goes where. Think rolling instead of folding clothes, waving ‘hi’ at packing cubes (invest!), mastering compression hacks, and giving forgotten spaces some love is what makes this trip less stressful than last year’s Thanksgiving dinner!

By sticking these tips into practice next time around, trust us honey bun – Not only will an Airline-friendly backpack organization be on our side, but we’re bound to turn this travel shindig into an organized rather fun event!

Unlocking Advanced Air Travel Hacks & Hidden Gems

Traveling by plane can be pretty neat. But packing? Well, that’s a whole different story. We’ve got some secret tips and tricks up our sleeves to make your [flight-friendly backpack preparation] even smoother. Let’s decode the mysteries of flying together, from neatly packing all those gadgets we’re glued to nowadays, to mastering TSA’s tricky toiletry rules along with some hints on what you’d never think to squeeze in your carry-on for comfort during your sky-high journey.

Tech Essentials: Stay Organized on the Go

We live in a techie world where traveling without our devices is unthinkable. So how do you avoid a spaghetti-wire nightmare? Snap-up cable organizers – these babies will help you find just the right charger when you need it without having to dive into wire mayhem. Plus, stashing a portable phone charger will save your day especially if flight delays pop up – after all; nobody wants their lifeline conking out mid-adventure!

Toiletries & Liquids: Navigating TSA Regulations

TSA checkpoints might seem like they need a decoder ring but chill – knowing the inside scoop makes it smooth sailing. Start by swapping out bulky bottles for travel-sized ones for those must-have products–- fits snugly in compliance with TSA regulations AND gives extra room for goodies in your bag! Even slickers are solid toiletries like shampoo bars or toothpaste tabs that cut down liquids (no spillage horrors!) and leave less footprint on Mother Earth while still keeping you fresh as daisies onboard.

Unexpected Carry-On Items: Beyond the Ordinary

Did you know that packing a few out-of-the-box items in your carry-on is cool? If you’re high on sports energy, stick in your super deflated soccer ball or even that snug little yoga mat. Also, how about taking along a musical buddy like the ukulele or maybe the harmonica – they’re welcome too! But hey, do give a peek at what your airline has to say about these. Trust us, adding such funky stuff would surely jazz up your voyage.

Comfort & Wellbeing: Prepare for the Unexpected

Air travel can be crazy – lasting hours and jumping time zones. So why not pack smart for some comfort and health care? Maybe invest in this comfy neck pillow for napping tight; an eye mask to shut off those annoying cabin lights; also earplugs work wonders against noise pollution. These tiny things can bring loads of difference making sure you are all refreshed and ready for an adventurous experience.

While gearing up for a fun air journey, don’t forget the magic in small details – they matter big-time! Explore these essential air travel packing hacks for backpacks to elevate your travel game. Get systematic with all tech-necessary items; crack TSA rules by kitting out with sleek toiletries; lighten up by carrying along some quirky unexpected stuff; but most importantly safeguard your comfort level and take good care of yourself so hopping off that plane becomes more fun than ever!

Explore Bonus: Innovative Packing Strategies for Air Travel

Hey, if you’re gearing up to jet off somewhere nice, you know smart packing for air travel with a backpack isn’t just stuff in a bag – it’s an art! And getting good at it can make your trips way better.

Right here we’re going to spill the beans on some extra nifty packing hacks that go further than plain ol’ basic, making sure you’re ready no matter what comes your way and promises a smoother ride. From climate-switching smarts to wearable Swiss army knives and having a few surprises up your sleeve (or pant leg), let’s dive into super cool ways of jamming stuff into luggage.

Packing for Different Climates: Smart Adaptations

Whether you’re beach-bound or mountain-bound, knowing how to pack right based on where you’re headed is crucial for effectively organizing a backpack for airplane journeys…Cold resort? Hot retreat? Either way–you got this!

For those sunny getaways, light and breathable clothes are boss. We’re talking breezy cotton or linens – oh, and don’t forget the sunhat-plus-sunscreen package deal. Going someplace cold? Layers are gonna be your best buds. Choose pieces that can double-duty through temperature switches nicely without hogging all the space in your bag—an insulated jacket without bulk beats the chill any day!

Multipurpose Clothing: The Traveler’s Wardrobe MVPs

Yeah, so let’s talk about packing smart for your airplane trips. This is where multipurpose clothes come in real handy! Imagine wearing stuff that ticks more than one box – you’ll save precious cargo space and shed a few grams too!

How about taking along a scarf that doesn’t just look fab but can keep you cozy on ice-cold flights? Or those change-up pants that miraculously morph into shorts? Perfect when the weather flips its script! Top it off with shoes as chillaxed as your beachside stroll but hold their own at fancy places too. By stashing gear best suited for any kinda scene, you get to pack light without skimping on style.

Also Read: How to Pack Clothes in a Backpack

“Just in Case” Essentials: Ready for Anything

Let’s be honest here – travel surprises can pop up anywhere, anytime! That’s why having a stash of “just in case” essentials is diamonds (A heads up; we ain’t talking wonders like magic carpets!). Like this nifty rain poncho that packs away almost invisibly until—BAM—an out-of-nowhere deluge ambushes ya.

You’ll stay dry sans adding extra fluff to your luggage. Now here’s another goodie—a mini sewing kit—it may sound downright old school… until threadbare kicks in… trust me – better safe than sorry! Look ahead, foresee scenarios; rather have what ya don’t need than need what ya don’t have– I’m saying… play it safe, buddy!

Sustainable Packing: Minimize Waste, Maximize Impact

Hey Earth lovers, you know packing for a trip in an eco-friendly manner is not just rad but also feels darn great. So how about ditching those one-time-use plastics and swapping them out for stuff that can be reused ?

Like snapping up the coolest refillable water bottle that’ll keep you hydrated wherever your feet roam. And guess what’s next? It’s time to switch to planet-friendly tidbits like shampoo bars and toothpaste tabs – bye-bye pesky plastic tubes! As for clothes? Go for clever pieces that can survive many washes and wears. With these easy tweaks, we’re all geared to limit our carbon footprint while turning travel green.

Packing smart ain’t just about prepping well; it’s carving out greener journeys. So here’s wishing you happy (and safe) wanderings!

Also Read: How to Pack a Suit in a Backpack

Alright, pal. Here’s the lowdown on how to pack a backpack for air travel – and do it like a pro! First up, remember that being clever with how you pack can take the hassle out of traveling. You know the score; use techniques like rolling instead of folding, using those nifty little packing cubes, and squishing everything down to make maximum use of every inch. This will not only keep all your gear in order but also speed things up at security.

The next thing is adaptability. It’s always about expecting the unexpected, whether it be changing weather or other surprises along the way. Be smart with your clothing choices––pack pieces that work double time in multiple climates and scenarios (also known as “just in case” items). Keep looking ahead so that whatever comes your way won’t catch you unprepared.

And lastly? Think multi-purpose! Look for stuff that does more than one job – from clothes to travel essentials – and each piece adds value without adding weight to your bag. A well-chosen item can do several things at once making life easier on the road. You’ll find all this advice makes traveling by air just a tad bit less stressful and quite a lot more fun!

Going green even when packing is a thing now, you know? Choosing stuff that’s good for the planet, saying no to those nasty single-use plastics and not going overboard with what we buy can help make traveling more eco-friendly. When you pack keeping Mother Earth in mind, your trips are about more than just sightseeing – they’re about being kind to our planet too.

Knowing how to pack smart isn’t just about squishing as much as possible into your bag. It’s also about choosing wisely, being flexible, and thinking ahead for packing a backpack for airplane travel. So next time you’re jetting off somewhere cool, remember this: a well-packed bag isn’t just something you lug around – it’s the key to a hassle-free epic journey! Enjoy your trip!

Also Read: How to Pack an External Frame Backpack

How to Pack a Backpack for Air Travel: FAQs

How do you pack a backpack for a flight.

To pack a backpack for a flight, start by prioritizing essentials like travel documents, medications, and electronics. Utilize the “Roll, Don’t Fold” method to save space and minimize wrinkles in clothing. Invest in packing cubes to keep items organized, and pack heavier items closer to your back for better weight distribution. Consider the climate at your destination and pack accordingly. Opt for versatile, multipurpose clothing. Don’t forget “just in case” essentials like a rain poncho or a travel sewing kit. Finally, adhere to airline carry-on restrictions and pack thoughtfully for a seamless and stress-free journey.

What is the best way to pack a travel backpack?

The best way to pack a travel backpack is to prioritize essentials, use the “Roll, Don’t Fold” technique for efficient space utilization, and invest in packing cubes for organization. Pack heavier items closer to your back for better balance and comfort. Opt for versatile clothing and consider the weather at your destination. Utilize every available pocket, including hidden compartments, and pack “just in case” essentials. Follow airline carry-on restrictions for a hassle-free journey. Prioritizing simplicity and organization ensures a well-packed and functional travel backpack.

How do you wrap a backpack for air travel?

To prepare a backpack for air travel, start by removing any loose straps. Use a travel cover or a durable plastic bag to protect it from dirt and damage. Place a luggage tag with your contact information inside the bag. Secure zippers with travel locks for added security. Avoid overpacking to comply with airline regulations. Wrapping a backpack ensures it arrives at your destination in good condition, safeguarding it from potential wear and tear during the journey.

Can I put clothes in my backpack on a plane?

Certainly! You can pack clothes in your backpack for a plane journey. It’s a common and practical practice. Use the “Roll, Don’t Fold” method to save space and reduce wrinkles. Consider the destination’s climate and pack accordingly. Ensure any liquids adhere to airline regulations and place them in a sealed bag. Remember to include essential items like travel documents and personal necessities . Airlines generally allow passengers to carry a backpack as a carry-on item, making it a convenient and accessible choice for keeping your belongings close during the flight.

Maximize your carry-on. The ultimate guide to airline luggage dimensions and packing tips

K nowing how to pack your carry-on luggage carefully can help you avoid additional charges for oversized baggage and ensure you meet all the regulations set by your airline. There are essential rules about these that are worth finding out before your trip.

Carry-on luggage dimensions

Most airlines allow passengers to bring one piece of carry-on luggage on board. However, the specific dimensions and weight for this luggage vary among airlines. As such, you should familiarize yourself with your airline's carry-on luggage policy before your flight to avoid any hiccups.

While carry-on luggage often refers to a suitcase, it can also mean backpacks and other types of bags. Though dimensions can vary, they typically measure around 20x16x8 inches (including wheels and handles), and weigh between 18 and 22 pounds. Some airlines even permit an additional small bag, such as a purse or camera bag.

Varied dimensions of carry-on luggage among airlines

The dimensions of carry-on luggage can vary depending on the airline. For instance, Ryanair and Wizzair allow dimensions of 16x8x10 inches. Similarly, Lufthansa, KLM, and other airlines have their unique specifications, making it essential to check with your airline before your journey.

Keep in mind that low-budget airlines usually don't provide carry-on luggage for infants. Standard children's accessories necessary for parents during the journey, like baby food, should be packed in the parents' luggage.

What you can bring in your carry-on luggage

Knowing what you can pack in your carry-on luggage according to airline regulations is essential. The rules for transporting food, medicines, cosmetics, and drinks may not be straightforward, so it's crucial to know about quantity and volume limits.

Here are a few things you can carry on board:

- Cosmetics in packs up to 3.4 oz, placed in a 1-quart transparent bag,

- Alcoholic beverages with a maximum alcohol content of 70%, in packs up to 3.4 oz (limits don't apply to duty-free purchases),

- Food and liquid products, which must be packed as cosmetics,

- Medical equipment, like a blood pressure monitor,

- Necessary medicines, including those available on prescription (liquid medicines don't have limits),

- Baby food, which doesn't have any limits.

Carry-on luggage options

While a suitcase is a typical choice for hand luggage, a backpack or soft bag may also work. Be aware that the dimensions of your luggage are likely to be checked. If your bag doesn't fit in the guide basket used for measurement, it will be considered too big.

Carry-on luggage for airplane travel

A suitcase may not always be the best choice for carry-on luggage. A soft bag or backpack could be a better option if it can be easily squeezed into the measuring basket. However, remember that oversized carry-on luggage may result in additional fees, depending on the airline's policy.

A trivial travel trick. Thanks to this, you'll easily recognize your luggage

Revolution at airports. Changes in carry-on luggage

A European airline makes a surprising move. Animal snacks are now on the menu

Best Way To Pack Luggage For Air Travel – Pack Like A Pro

While packing for air travel, a lot of thought has to be put into it as it is a lot different than other travels. While traveling by plane, you need to follow a lot of rules and regulations set by the TSA and the specific airlines. So there is no room for packing without thinking. That’s why one must know the best way to pack luggage for air travel.

As there are restrictions in place regarding the weight and contents of the luggage, it is better to first take extremely necessary things. While you are packing, also make sure you put the items in their proper places, such as not putting things in carry-ons that are not supposed to be inside them.

Without further delay, let’s find out how to pack your luggage for air travel properly.

Table of Contents

How to Pack Luggage for the Flight

When traveling abroad, it is a must that you know how to pack luggage for international travel. You don’t want to pack your things in a disorderly manner and then face unwanted difficulties at the airport. You need your journey to be as stress-free as possible, so follow the following steps :

1. Picking the Correct Sized Bag

The very first thing you have to do while packing your luggage is to pick the right bag. The right bag means it should be the right size and tough for the journey. Check the airlines’ travel requirements before buying one. If they don’t have any requirements, then it’s better to buy a suitcase that is 22 inches tall and hard-sided. The benefit of this is it will not allow you to pack unnecessary things while flying. You can use a portable luggage scale to weigh your luggage & avoid extra fees.

2. Doing A Countdown for Clothing

The best way to pack your clothing is to follow the 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 rule. This means that if you are flying for a whole week, you should pack five sets of undergarments, four tops at most, three bottoms, a couple of pairs of shoes, foldable travel slippers , and only one hat. But this list is not rigid. You can easily tweak it according to your need and the duration of the visit.

3. Laying the Necessary Things Out First

You should have a second thought about the things you are going to put into your luggage. If you think you can buy something while traveling, don’t pack it. Also, after laying out the things, if you realize you don’t NEED something, refrain from putting it into your suitcase also.

4. Playing Tetris with Your Items

Ever played Tetris? The game needs you to fill up every possible vacancy on the screen. Playing Tetris with your items in the luggage will allow you to do just that. You should stuff your socks in the shoes and go on like that. A few popular strategies are to roll the clothes up, to use small bags known as packing cubes, space saver vacuum storage bags , etc.

5. Keeping Liquids in a Place That’s Easy To Gain Access To

You should always keep liquid toiletries in an easily reachable place. Because the TSA might ask for you to open the bags for a sudden check. Also, keep them separate from other items, so when you do need them, you don’t have to go through the entire luggage.

Airline Travel Tips for Carry-on Luggage

There are two types of luggage during air travel, carry-on luggage, and checked-in luggage . Packing for carry-on luggage is trickier because you can carry only a few things in them. Here are a few tips for preparing carry-on luggage.

1. Packing the Essentials

If you think you can’t do without something, pack it in your carry-on luggage. This includes an extra set of clothes, a few essential toiletries, medicines, and some form of entertainment. Basically in the unfortunate event that you lose your checked-in luggage, the bare minimum of things you would need to survive are the things you should put in the carry-on luggage.

2. Packing the Valuables

You probably know this already, but every time you fly, there’s a chance that you have bid farewell to your checked-in luggage forever. This happens because airlines lose luggage regularly. So it is a bad idea to put your valuables such as money, passports, jewelry, watches ( use a watch travel case for protection ), etc in the checked-in luggage. Instead, pack all your valuables in your carry-on bag to ensure their safety.

3. Packing Electronics Together

You should pack all your electronics for a couple of reasons. First, you will need some form of entertainment while traveling, especially on a long flight. Keeping all the electronics together will allow you to gain access to them easily. Second, the TSA might want to double-check the electronics, in which case keeping them together will make life easier for you. You won’t have to rummage through all your things to get them out, rather they can easily be taken out and put in after the check.

4. Making Sure That You Are Carrying All the Documents

You can travel without your bags, but if there’s something that you can’t travel without are your documents. These documents include your passports, ATM cards, etc. Use a travel document organizer for protection & put it into your carry-on bags.

5. Carrying A First Aid Kit

You never know when a medical emergency arises while traveling. That’s why having a first aid kit on hand is the best choice. Pack painkillers, bandages, tissues, anti-nausea pills, etc in them for emergencies.

6. Dressing in Layers

You will not be charged for anything you wear. So if it’s possible, dress in layers. This will allow you to bring extra clothes with you like long sleeve tops, travel cardigans , and hiking boots.

Final Words

The best way to pack luggage for air travel is only to take necessary things. That way, you will be exempted from facing unnecessary troubles at the airport and your plane journey will be a smooth one.

Sharing is caring!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Jetsetting Fools

Travel Far. Discover More. Spend Less.

37 Packing Hacks: The Best Travel Hacks For Packing

Welcome to JetSetting Fools, here you will find our best travel tips for destinations worldwide. Some of the links on this site are Affiliate Links and if you use them to make a purchase, we may earn a commission. For more information, read our Disclosure Policy .

Packing hacks are the best way to take your travel game to the next level. We have rounded up the top travel packing hacks designed to save you space, time and money – so you can focus your energy on enjoying your trip. Clever and inventive, packing hacks for traveling will enhance your packing skills and overall travel savviness.

37 Best Travel Packing Hacks

I used to be terrible at packing for trips; first I was an over-packer, then an under-packer. Now, as a full-time world traveler, I rely on packing hacks for travel to keep me organized and efficient on travel days. Some hacks for packing have become so ingrained in our travel routine that packing without them is unimaginable.

Our Travel Hacks For Packing

Our list of packing hacks ranges from absolute game changers to creative tricks. Some are tried-and-true traveling hacks for packing, while others are insider tips we gleaned from expert travelers. These packing hacks will work for all travelers – so whether you are seeking backpack hacks or cruise packing hacks, you will surely find a few gems on our list.

We have categorized our list into three sections: Hacks for Packing Clothes, Toiletry Hacks, Carry On Hacks and a few miscellaneous tips, too. This is a mega list of the best packing life hacks – so grab your coffee and settle in.

Get started now with your FREE Packing Checklist !

Clothing Packing Hacks

Because clothing is the main component to packing, we are kicking off our list with hacks for packing clothes.

#1 Packing Cubes Hacks

Of all luggage packing hacks, packing with Packing Cubes ranks most supreme. Providing organization and structure to your suitcase or backpack, Packing Cubes are space-saving superstars. The cubes come in a variety of sizes, styles and materials – all of which need to be considered in order to attain your ultimate packing goal.

Pro Tip : We discuss the different kinds of cubes – and the best packing cube hacks – in detail in our post: Ways Packing Cubes make Travel Easier . 

#2 Cheap Packing Travel Hacks

While Packing Cubes are – hands down – one of the best packing hacks that we use, Packing Cubes are pricey! Personally, we think they are worth every single cent. However, if you are not ready to take the plunge and buy some, rather than packing using Packing Cubes, try Ziplock Bags. This is one of the top travel organization hacks that will save space in your suitcase. 

Gallon-size bags are ideal for organization and compression; however, unlike the quality Packing Cubes we use, Ziplocks have an incredibly short lifespan.

Pro Tip : I used to pack using Ziplocks (before I learned how incredible actual Packing Cubes are!). I would pack one complete outfit in each gallon bag and label it so I could easily find the outfit I was looking for. On the way home from vacation, I used the zip-top bags for my dirty laundry, too!

#3 Clothes-Rolling, Space-Saving Packing Hacks

Rolling clothes – rather than folding them – has long been one of the best suitcase packing hacks for saving space. Travelers can either roll each item individually – or, take it up a notch, and roll an entire outfit (pants, shirt, socks and underwear) together. By rolling a complete outfit, your suitcase becomes a grab-and-go destination when getting ready for the day’s adventure.

Pro Tip : For a tighter roll that stays together, use a ‘military roll’ or hair ties to secure the rolled clothing. If you use hair ties, you will also have backups if you lose or break one on your trip. (Plain rubber bands can be used, too, if you don’t use hair elastics.)

Roll vs Fold Debate

While many travelers rave about the benefits of rolling, it is not one of the packing luggage hacks that we use for our shirts and pants. We find that rolling is time consuming – and although many travelers claim that it can save even more space to pack rolled clothes in Packing Cubes, we have not found that to be true.

That said, the one item of clothing I do roll is my bikini underwear . I start by folding the underwear into thirds – folding each side in to the width of my small Packing Cube. Then, starting at the bottom, I roll up to the waistline. This is actually one of my airport hacks, as much as it is a packing hack, because this way, if my undergarment Packing Cube gets tagged for inspection, the agent rifling through my clothes will be less likely to touch the part of the panties that goes against my skin.

Pro Tip : Another clothes packing hack for underwear is to pack quick drying underwear that will be easy to wash in the sink and dry fast – if need be. A brand that fellow travelers love is Ex-Officio , but I prefer inexpensive and functional Fruit of the Loom . We talk more about clothing materials in a minute!

#4 Folding Hacks for Packing

If you are like us and decide to fold your clothes (instead of roll), then it is key to fold all of your clothing to the exact same size. After spending 10 years working in retail, I am fairly skilled at folding random sized clothing into neat stacks. However, for travelers who find it challenging, one of the packing folding hacks is to use a Folding Board , which will ensure you get a perfect fold on every piece of clothing.

Pro Tip: One of the great business travel packing hacks is to fold your delicate work clothes in dry cleaning bags as it will help eliminate wrinkles on arrival!

#5 Packing Hacks: Travel Clothing

One of the top packing clothes hacks for traveling is to only pack clothing that travels well. There are numerous clothing lines that are designed specifically for traveling, but most travelers don’t need to get that technical – and many items you already own might fit the bill.

The features of clothing that are most important when it comes to packing are moisture-wicking, quick-drying, odor-eliminating, wrinkle-resistant and washable clothing items.

That said, if you do pack clothing that wrinkles, bring travel-size Wrinkle Release Spray  to avoid having to iron on vacation.

Pro Tip : While the right clothing material is essential for travelers, it is equally important to pack clothing that you like and are comfortable wearing…because if it is not comfortable, it will likely stay folded in your suitcase. I share more tips about my packing experience for full-time travel in My Long-Term Travel Packing List: What I Pack To Travel the World .

#6 Pack Multi-Functional Clothing

There are no better packing hacks for traveling light than packing versatile and multi-functional clothing. One of the most useful items I have in my backpack is my wrap – and it has about a million uses.

I have used it as a scarf, a beach cover up, a bath towel, a picnic blanket, a pillow cover, a bedsheet, a head cover, an ear cover, an eye cover, a curtain and a bus seat cover…just to name a few. As long as the wrap is lightweight, dark and washable, the possibilities are endless.

Convertible clothing – like this dress/skirt combo – are awesome packing hacks to save space. Other clothing that can be multi-function are yoga pants (which can double as sleepwear), leggings (which can be layered in cool weather), a casual dress (which can be a beach cover up) and bikini tops (which can be worn as a bra).

Pro Tip : A pillowcase is another good item to pack that is multi-functional. Use it to cover the pillow you sleep on in your accommodations, then fill it with dirty clothes for the trip home.

#7 Capsule Clothing Packing Travel Hacks

Packing a capsule wardrobe is one of the smart packing hacks used by travelers. 

To assemble a capsule wardrobe, first, choose a color scheme of similar shades – like black, dark blue and shades of purple – and only pack clothing that falls into the color palette. Each item – tops and bottoms – need to be able to be mixed, matched and layered with all other items. Outfits can be accessorized with colorful scarves and jewelry.

By using this trip hack, you can pack minimal pieces of clothing that can be combined to make numerous different outfits. Done right, it is one of the space saving packing hacks that allows travelers to pack carry-on luggage only. 

In addition to coordinating my entire wardrobe, one item that I always like to pack is a black skirt . It is something that is comfortable and casual for sightseeing, but can be dressed up with a nicer shirt and a scarf for going out in the evening.

Pro Tip : A life hack for packing clothes for a vacation is to use the Countdown Rule. For example, if you are taking a 5-day trip, pack 5 shirts, 4 pants (or shorts/skirts), 3 dresses, 2 pairs of shoes and 1 colorful scarf (or bold piece of jewelry). Additionally, pack one pair of underwear for every day of the trip, but only one set of pajamas.

#8 Clothes Packing Hacks for Vacation

One of the simple traveling packing hacks that is often overlooked is Destination Research. What I mean by this is that, before you start packing and choosing clothes for your trip, first check the weather forecast for your destination. Also, gain some insight to the destination’s clothing culture and have a basic understanding of what apparel is acceptable at tourist destinations, religious sites, restaurants and clubs.

Pro Tip : Use your itinerary to help decide what clothes to bring. How the Packing Hacks Travel Itinerary works is that, based on your planned activities that you select in advance of your trip, you determine which outfit to wear for each day of your trip. (To book your activities in advance, we use Viator !)

#9 Clever Packing Hacks for Clothing

One of the life hacks for packing that we have long used – and is commonly used by fellow travelers – is to pack clothing items for a trip that you no longer want to keep. After you wear them on your trip, you can donate the clothing at your destination (or, if there is really no life left in the item, just toss it!). This is an especially good tip for families traveling with growing kids.

Pro Tip : One of the truly Travel Light hacks is to reverse this idea slightly. When you leave for vacation, only pack personal items – like undergarments and toiletries. On arrival at your destination, make your first stop a thrift shop and buy new-to-me clothes for the entire trip. On the last day of the vacation, return to the thrift shop and donate all of the clothing back to the store. We have never personally used this hack – but heard about it from a fellow traveler and love the concept!

#10 Travel Hacks for Packing Shoes

To save suitcase space, on any trip, for any length of time, only ever pack three pairs of shoes – I even follow this rule as a full-time traveler! All shoes should be comfortable to wear for long days of sightseeing and, more importantly, they need to go with all the outfits that you are packing. (This idea goes back to the capsule wardrobe method!)

For more travel shoe tips, read our blog post, The Best Shoes for Traveling .

Pro Tip : A good way to keep grimy shoes from dirtying up the inside of your luggage and one of the little genius packing hacks is to fit disposable shower caps (the kind that are free at many hotels) over the sole of the shoe before you put them in your bag. The empty space inside your shoes can also be used to store items – like deodorant and shaving cream, just put it in a resealable bag first.

Resealable bags are one of our essentials for packing. They come in handy for everything from an open bag of snacks to your wet bathing suit on a travel day. Find out more tips in our blog post, Everyday Items for Traveling . 

#11 Clothing Airport Hacks

One of the ingenious suitcase packing hacks to save space is to actually wear your bulkiest items, especially on long travel days . In fact, this is one of the top Carry On Only travel hacks. Rather than using valuable luggage space to pack your coat and boots, wear them on the plane! Tie a sweatshirt around your waist or wear layers that can easily be removed once seated on the plane.

Pro Tip : Another one of the travel packing hacks that can save space inside your luggage is tying your shoes or flip flops to the outside of your carry on bag. This also applies if you carry a water bottle…simply clip it to the exterior of your bag if possible…or better yet, travel with a collapsible water bottle .

#12 Hacks for Packing a Suitcase…Without Over-Packing

Over-packing is a downfall for many travelers – it certainly was for me when I was a novice traveler. But I have learned what an absolute drag over-packing can be. It can weigh you down (literally) when lugging your suitcase through an airport, down a cobblestone street and up the stairs of a boutique hotel.

One of the best life hacks for traveling and packing – or rather not over-packing – is to simply commit to packing in a carry on size suitcase. By limiting the amount of room you have, you will be less tempted to over pack, which is much more sensible! We discuss more specific carry on packing hacks later in the post!

Pro Tip: If you are checking luggage, invest in an affordable luggage scale to ensure you don’t go over the weight limit. You don’t want to be surprised at the beginning of your trip with an extra charge!

Everything we pack for world travel fits in a Carry On size backpack! Find out what we pack: The Ultimate Packing List .

#13 Packing Suitcase Hacks

We pack in backpacks, but one of the best suitcase hacks I ever heard was to shift your perspective of your suitcase. Rather than packing stacks of clothing horizontally into the suitcase, pack vertically, from the wheels up.

Another one of the best Packing a Suitcase hacks is to take this idea one step further. Pack vertically, but pack complete outfits and stack them in the order that you plan to wear them (according to your itinerary!). This way, when you get ready each day, all you need to do is grab the outfit from the top!

Pro Tip : Don’t let any space go unused! One of the long time travel hacks packing tips is to take advantage of small crevices in your suitcase to slip in things like a comb or other small miscellaneous items.

#14 Luggage Hacks

Day packs and purses can take up a lot of room in luggage. Minimize how many items you carry by selecting one purse that will work for all occasions. It is even better if you pack a purse or bag that can double as a day pack.

One of our favorite packing for travel hacks is to pack a lightweight  foldable shopping bag , which unfolds to a bigger bag for going to the beach or shopping during your trip.

Pro Tip : Read more about day bags in our blog post, The Best Day Packs for Traveling .

#15 Packing a Suitcase: Hacks for Fresh Clothing

One way to keep your clothes smelling fresh during your trip is to layer each clothing item with a dryer sheet. This is one of the double-dip packing travel hacks because later, if you need to do laundry while on your trip, you will have dryer sheets to use!

Pro Tip : Another way to keep clothes fresh is with Fabreeze. Pack a travel-size Fabreeze with your toiletries! And, don’t worry, we are getting to our toiletry packing hacks in a minute!

#16 Holiday Packing Hacks for Souvenirs

If you anticipate collecting breakable souvenirs during your trip, a good suitcase hack is to use bubble wrap in between your clothes or outfits. Then, use the bubble wrap to protect souvenirs that you are bringing home.

Other travel hacks for packing souvenirs (and some of the creative ways to better ensure breakables make the trip home undamaged) is to pack them inside Pringles cans or even use the free hotel slippers as cushioning. On the other hand, if you are  buying wine, actual wine protectors are the best.

Pro Tip : In many cases, the best and safest way to transport fragile souvenirs is to ship them home…rather than trying to jam them into your suitcase. 

#17 Packing hacks for Traveling: Laundry

One of the best space-saving travel hacks is simply to plan on doing laundry during your trip. By planning to do laundry while you travel, you will only need to pack one week’s worth of clothing – or less! – even if you are on a 2-week – or longer! – trip.

We recommend booking accommodations with a washer and (maybe) a dryer ( Airbnb is our go-to resource for finding the best places to stay). It is a good idea to pack a few individual packages of liquid laundry detergent , just in case they do not provide any. 

Pro Tip : If your accommodation does not have a washer, there is likely a nearby laundromat – or even laundry service. Just remember to bring a packable laundry bag so that you have something to carry your dirty clothes in.

#18 Sink Laundry: Packing Tips and Hacks

Learning how to efficiently do sink laundry is one of the packing hacks for long trips, when you will inevitably need to wash at least a few undergarments. Sink laundry is as simple as it sounds: It’s when you hand wash your clothes in the sink, bathtub or shower.

The most important thing to keep in mind when washing items in the sink is allowing enough time for clothes to dry (and, again, why it is so important to pack quick-dry clothing).

Many travelers wash clothes at night, before going to bed, to ensure they will dry. We like to take advantage of the sunshine (if possible) and wash them in the morning (but never the morning of a travel day!).

Sometimes we just use a bar of soap to clean our clothes, but Sink Laundry detergent is probably better. A sink stopper will help for scrubbing and rinsing in the sink – and a travel clothesline is ideal to hang up wet clothes. That said, draping socks over a heater or in front of a fan can help speed drying times…and a hair dryer works, too.

Pro Tip : A Scrubba Wash Bag is often touted by fellow travelers as one of the top packing hacks for backpacking, but we have yet to use one personally!

Packing Hacks For Toiletries

Our list of packing toiletries hacks is full of ideas that will help you pack better for your next trip! These travel hacks for packing toiletries will hopefully help you avoid spills in your luggage…and save you some space in your bag, too.

#19 Travel Toiletry Hacks for Shampoo and Conditioner

One way to avoid any liquid shampoo and conditioner luggage incidents is to simply not pack it! Many hotels and Airbnb apartments provide shampoo and conditioner. And, if they don’t, you can always buy some at a local store when you get there.

That said, did you know that shampoo and condition come in bars just like soap? Well, you are now in on the secret! Using shampoo and conditioner bars – rather than packing bottled liquids – is an excellent travel packing hack that will ensure you don’t have spilled shampoo in your bag on arrival at your destination.

Pro Tip : Shampoo and conditioner are just one of the solid toiletries you can use on your trip. Other packings hacks for traveling without liquids are using toothpaste tabs and solid perfumes !

#20 All-in-One Toiletry Travel and Packing Hacks

What better way to save space than to use products with multiple uses? The all-in-one Dr. Bronner’s soaps are organic and certified Fair Trade products that are designed for multiple purposes. The soap can be used on body, face, hair and teeth…and also to clean dishes, clothes, floors, windows – and even the toilet – making it one of the best travel packing hacks of all!

Pro Tip : The Castille soap collection comes in a variety of scents and is available in liquid or bars .

#21 Liquids: The Best Packing Hacks for Travel

While eliminating liquids from your luggage is one of the top packing hacks for travel, if you are bringing liquids in your bag, we have a few travel hacks and tips on how to keep liquids from spilling inside your bag.

The best travel hacks for liquids is a 3-part process that includes plastic wrap, tape and a resealable bag. First, unscrew the top off the bottle and place a piece of plastic wrap over the top, then screw the top back on (over the top of the plastic wrap). Next, take a piece of tape and tape the flip lid shut. Finally, secure the bottles in resealable bags. By using the three-step method, suitcase spillage is highly unlikely!

Pro Tip : The bottles you pack in can make all of the difference! Liquid travel containers is not where you want to skimp on quality. Therefore, one of the best travel hacks for toiletries is to use refillable GoToob bottles that are specifically engineered for travel – and promise a spill-proof journey!

#22 Save Space in your Toiletry Bag when A Little Dab Will Do

One of the phenomenal travel hacks to save space in your toiletries case is to only bring as much product as you will actually use on your trip. Rather than packing larger bottles of face creams and foundation, pour a small amount into a contact lens case. Use more than one case if you need to…but just remember to use a contact case with screw top lids.

Pro Tip : Small 10ml bottles also work great for liquids that you will only need a little dab of during your vacation. They are inexpensive and reusable, too, making them one of the best travel hacks!

#23 Travel Size Items

When it comes to transporting liquids, one of the travel packing life hacks is to use refillable travel-size bottles. In fact, we think travel-size toiletries are the way to go in general when it comes to packing and carry-on hacks.

It is amazing how many products are made in a smaller, space-saving size. Some favorites are a travel-size hairbrush , travel-size toothpaste , travel-size deodorant and travel-size shaving cream . Products we don’t use – but that other travelers do – are mini-magnifying mirrors , travel-size hair straighteners and travel towels .

Pro Tip : Want one of our top travel hacks that saves money in the long run? When your travel-size toothpaste runs out, don’t throw it away! The tube can actually be refilled from a regular-size toothpaste tube. Just securely hold the openings together and squeeze from the larger tube into the travel sized tube!

#24 Travel Tips for Shaving Cream Alternatives

Using a travel-size shaving cream is not the only way to save space in your suitcase. One of the best travel packing tips and hacks is to not bring shaving cream at all! Instead, just lather up soap or use hair conditioner in place of shaving cream.

Pro Tip : The Schick Intuition razor is another travel gem – in that the shaving cream is right on the razor!

#25 Minimal Hair Products

While we love the innovative travel-size products that are available to travelers, the fewer you bring, the lighter your luggage. It can be tempting to pack a hair dryer, curling iron and straightener, but we don’t recommend it…even if they are all travel size!

First, check to see if your accommodations provide a hair dryer. Second, choose one low-maintenance hairstyle. This way, you can limit the number of hair tools and products you bring on your trip!

Pro Tip : In the case that your accommodations don’t have a blow dryer, rather than succumbing to packing a hairdryer, one of the travel life hacks is to pack a microfiber towel that can be used to help dry your hair more quickly. 

#26 Makeup: Packing for Vacation Hacks

Many minimalist travelers recommend leaving all makeup at home when taking a trip. While I have never been a heavy makeup wearer, I still travel with makeup – but I limit it to essentials only.

I pack one powder, two small brushes, a travel eyelash curler and mascara…and that is it. At the very least, limit your makeup bag to only one eyeliner, one eyeshadow, one mascara and one lipstick (and make sure they go with your capsule wardrobe color scheme!).

Pro Tip : Using makeup samples is one of the great traveling life hacks for trips! If you have collected any sample-size makeup in the months prior to your trip, select a few to use on your vacation!

#27 The Almighty Pill Box as a First Aid Kit

While a Weekly Pill Box is excellent for its intended purpose, it is also a great space-saving travel organizer! Instead of packing bottles of Just-in-Case medications, store each of the assorted meds in a different day of the week. For example, store pain reliever in Sunday, vitamins in Monday, cold meds in Tuesday and belly meds in Wednesday. Pill boxes are also one of the fantastic travel pack hacks for storing and organizing jewelry for your trip!

Pro Tip : For something a little more flexible than a pill box, use individual travel jars  and small 2×3-inch plastic resealable baggies to pack medications…and jewelry, too! Read more about what we pack in our first aid travel kit in our post, Ways to Stay Healthy While Traveling .

#28 Toiletry Life Hacks for Packing a Suitcase

One way to make packing toiletries so much easier is to invest in a Travel Toiletry Case that stays packed all the time! With a pre-packed toiletry case, all you need to do when it comes time to pack is grab the bag and go! Just starting out with traveling? This packaged toiletry case is great for beginners!

Pro Tip : Just remember to refill any used items when you return from each trip!

Carry On Hacks

On travel days, we seldom check bags – we each have carry-on-size travel backpacks and a day pack. To stay organized and efficient in airports, carry on luggage hacks are essential!

#29 Carry On Travel Hacks: Airport Security

No one likes a traveler who holds up the line at security, but there are a few packing hacks for carry on luggage that will get you through checkpoints in a flash.

First, if you are carrying liquids onto the plane, make sure they are in 3.4-ounce bottles (100ml) or smaller…and that they all fit into one quart-size resealable plastic bag. Next – and a key to being quick at security – when you pack your bag, place the bag of liquids in an easy to reach spot.

Electronics – especially laptops, but sometimes larger cameras and phones, which sometimes have to be removed when going through security – should also be placed in an easy-to-access part of your carry on luggage.

Pro Tip : Shoes often need to be removed, which is why I like to wear Slip On shoes or flip flops on travel days. However, if you are bringing boots on your trip, you will need to decide whether it is better to wear them to save space in your suitcase or pack them for a swifter pass through security.

#30 Packing Hacks: Carry On Entertainment

The best way to pass time on an airplane is with on-board entertainment, which is why planning your entertainment in advance is one of the best packing hacks for flying. Headphones and portable chargers are a must! 

Once I get settled in my seat, the first thing I do is create a list of movies to watch in-flight. Headphones , however, are essential to enjoying the flicks…so I always bring two pairs (just in case one fails me or gets lost).

On flights where there is no seat-back entertainment, be sure to bring your own entertainment. Make sure your phone is fully charged…and make a few song playlists or download apps in advance. Bring your charging cord (most seats now have USB ports) and a Portable Charger . 

If you like to read on planes (or trains or buses) a Kindle can be a real space-saver and one of the top vacation packing hacks. However, if you are like me and prefer the feel of paper books, then pick up one or two at a used bookstore or free community library…and then pass them along when you’re finished.

Pro Tip : Find out more of the specifics of what should be in your carry on luggage and our other in-flight tips in our blog post, Long Haul Flight Essentials .

#31 Only Hand Luggage Hacks

If you are trying to squeeze all of your items for your entire trip into a carry on, then one way to make a bit more room is to wear a fanny pack onto the plane. What makes it one of the best carry on packing hacks is that your fanny pack shouldn’t count as an extra bag – plus it keeps you hands-free! Besides that, it is a great place to store valuable items (like your passport and wallet), as well as items you want easy access to during the flight (like an lip balm , sleep mask and earplugs).

Pro Tip : Using a backpack instead of a suitcase will also keep you hands-free on travel days! Read more of the pros and cons of each style of luggage in our blog post, Backpack vs Suitcase . 

#32 Organizational Hand Luggage Packing Hacks

There is nothing more frustrating than when the plane is ready for take off…and you realize that your headphones and kindle are stowed in the overhead compartment (which now cannot be accessed until the captain has turned off the seatbelt sign).

To avoid the inconvenience, prepare ahead and pack a small on-board tote that contains your flight essentials, which can fit under the seat in front of you. Items I make sure to have close at hand are sanitizer , wet wipes , water, snacks, phone, headphones, sleep mask, earplugs and compression socks .

Pro Tip : One of the top carry on luggage packing hacks to use if you are checking luggage is to travel on board with a complete change of clothes…just in case your luggage (and clothing) gets lost en route to your destination . I also like to pack a fresh pair of underwear (that I can change into in the airport bathroom to start my trip off feeling fresh!) – as well as a toothbrush and toothpaste to use to freshen up after a long flight.

Miscellaneous Packing Hacks

Our final travel packing tips and hacks are some tricks that we have picked up over the years that make packing so much easier!

#33 Electronic Device Cable Organization

One of our suitcase life hacks is keeping our cables organized. Some of the essential electronics that we travel with are a mini extension cord (because the outlets are not always in convenient places!), a multi-port adapter (because there are multiple things to be charged!) and a portable charger that we carry with us while we are out exploring.

A good way to keep all these cords and electronics organized is with a Grid It board that keeps everything in place and easy to find! 

Pro Tip : For travelers who make frequent trips, an even easier way to stay organized is to purchase duplicate chargers and cables for all of your devices. Secure them on the Grid It – and always keep them packed so they are ready to go when you are ready to go!

#34 Cooking on Vacation

One of the reasons we love staying in Airbnb apartments is that we have access to our own kitchen where we can cook simple meals. That said, not all kitchens come fully equipped. If you plan on cooking during your trip, consider investing in a collapsible colander , a flexible cutting board and an multi-functional knife (but only if you are checking luggage). 

Pro Tip : In our travels, we have found that it is best to pack the spices that we love! To easily pack our spices, we use small resealable bags (the 2×3-inch baggies are the best!) rather than carrying bottles.

#35 Packing Hacks for Traveling as a Couple or with Friends

One thing that we have learned as a traveling couple is to communicate about our packing list. All of the items that can be shared – from lotion to a travel umbrella to a portable Wifi device – are divvied up evenly between us so that we are not carrying duplicates. Whether traveling as couples, friends or families, find out what items might be unnecessary and determine who will carry what.

Pro Tip : Packing Lists are gold! Keep a list of all the items you pack for a trip. When you return, take a few minutes to jot down notes on what you used and what you didn’t and adjust accordingly to make packing easier for future trips!

#36 Packing Hacks for International Travel

As we spend most of our time overseas, we have quite a few international travel hacks for packing. These tips aren’t necessarily travel hacks for packing light, but rather what to pack to make international travel a little bit easier. 

First, make sure you pack your passport and other travel documents in a safe place. We use a Passport Organizer that fits inside a zippered pocket inside our under-the-seat carry on luggage. 

We also think it is important to invest in a Mobile WiFi Hotspot so that you will have an internet connection from the moment you land. We use the GlocalMe device – which can be fitted with a SIM card or you can purchase data online ahead of your trip (the better way to go in our opinion!). 

Next, make sure that you have the right travel apps. Google Translate, Uber (or whatever ride hailing app is popular in the country you are visiting), Booking.com and Google Maps are the basic essentials. 

Bring (and use) a credit card that does not charge international transaction fees (we prefer the Chase Sapphire credit card). 

Pro Tip: We share heaps of tips for traveling from the United States to Europe in this article, How To Plan a Trip To Europe . 

#37 Best Packing Hack for Travel – Make a List! 

We have already touched on making a list as one of the top packing hacks for travel – but it is truly one of the easiest and most often overlooked hacks for organizing your suitcase. 

Start by making a list of what to pack for your next trip. Then, after the trip, reanalyze the list, eliminating the things you didn’t use – and then make a Master Packing List. For future travels, use your Master Packing List as a base for all of your trips. 

However, as each trip is unique with different climates and activities, it is best to take your list one step further and make an Itinerary of Outfits. On this list, note what outfit (or outfits) you will wear on each day of your trip based on your outlined trip itinerary. This way, you can be certain that you only pack clothes you intend to actually wear – saving you from over packing! 

Pro Tip : Our T rip Planning Printables Kit includes itinerary templates and everything you need to organize your trip! 

More Travel Tips and Hacks

Above, we featured our top travel tips for creative and easy packing hacks – but we have so many more travel hacks to save money! 

Cheap Flights

We use a combination of tricks to find the best fares on flights – and we share them all in our article How To Find Cheap Flights .

Best Hotels

Want to find the best hotels at the best prices? Don’t we all! Get there by using our travel hacks for Booking Cheap Hotels . 

Free Packing Checklist 

With our packing hacks for travel, you will be a packing pro in no time! Get started right away with your  FREE Packing Checklist!

Start planning your next trip ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page !

We Want To Know: What are your best travel packing hacks? Give us your tips and advice in the comments below!

Pin it! See all of our travel pins on our JetSetting Fools Pinterest Board .

Share This Story!

• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)

18 smart travel essentials flight attendants always pack, from a hotel door lock for safety to a portable oven

When you buy through our links, Business Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more

To find the best carry-on bag essentials, who better to turn to than flight attendants? After all, they've made a career out of being frequent flyers. We spoke with four flight attendants from Delta, Jet Blue, Etihad, and United about their favorite travel products, as well as the tips and tricks they use to travel as efficiently as possible. 

Their top travel products include everything from a portable humidifier and a mini oven to a hotel door lock and a foldable mug . Whether you're planning on flying, taking the train, or going on a road trip, these 18 products will help you stay organized and energized throughout your trip. And, if you're looking for something to pack it all in, be sure to check out our guide to the best luggage .

Here are the top travel essentials, according to flight attendants

Briana taylor, jet blue airlines.

Follow JetBlue flight attendant Briana Taylor's lead and save money by skipping overpriced airport and hotel food. Instead, pack a portable oven. She also makes sure she's always safe by bringing a hotel lock. 

Briana's travel essentials:

A lot of flight attendants pack their own lunches to save money instead of buying hotel or airport food all of the time. The Hot Logic is very convenient to use on planes that have outlets. It’s also good for traveling as some hotels don’t have microwaves inside of their rooms.

Our planes are now stocked with disinfecting wipes, but before that, I bought my own Lysol wipes to wipe down everything. Other attendants use the spray, which can be easier than having to wipe everything down.

There’s a lot of scary stories out there about women traveling alone, especially among flight attendants. When traveling alone or staying in a hotel alone, having a portable lock just for extra security makes you feel more at peace.

I use a lot of small makeup bags. I usually end up using them for small things like travel-sized perfumes, hand sanitizer, hand lotion, and other small items. I think having a bag to put some of my small everyday items in is helpful.

What’s helpful for me is having an extra bag for laundry, sometimes I use parts of my suitcase but I don’t normally get to. When I’ve been away for a longer time, having an extra laundry bag to keep all of my stuff that I’m going to wash when I get home is helpful.

Lori Thompson, Delta Airlines

Lori Thompson, a flight attendant with Delta, ensures she's always prepared for a trip with items including a portable humidifier, a handy tech organizer, and a packable blanket, among others.

Lori's travel essentials:

Our hotel rooms can be rather dry, and after traveling a mini humidifier adds much needed moisture into the air.

I make sure I have enough charging cords/blocks for all my electronics (cell phone, tablet, watch, wireless headphones) and a small zippered pouch like this one works great to store all these items.

This is an item I always travel with and has come in handy when there are not enough outlets in the room, especially when traveling internationally.

I use a small zipper pouch to bring some much-needed essentials when traveling, such as waterproof bandages, Ibuprofen/Tylenol, Neosporin, and Vitamin C. You never know when you might need any of these items and they can be quite expensive to purchase when traveling. If you don’t want to create your own kit, you can buy one like this that comes pre-stocked.

These have been a life saver for me. It keeps all of my clothes organized and helps me to pack more efficiently.

I have always had a packable blanket with me for those chilly flights. These are nice to have in case there is not a blanket available on your flight.

Jenessa Andrea, United Airlines

United Airlines flight attendant Jenessa Andrea saves on space by using small storage capsules that replace large containers, and a mug that can be folded down when not in use. 

Jenessa's travel essentials:

These containers organize products while also being the perfect interchangeable system so I can change up what I’m bringing on trips depending on location.

I cut these up and use these as laundry detergent for washing clothes in the sink of hotels when I’m on a time crunch or don’t have access to laundry.

My entire family is in dental so oral care is in my blood, but there were no toothpaste tablets I could find that had fluoride in them, so I was hooked ever since I found this product.

I love how portable these are, I always have one with me either in my purse or suitcase, I’ve used these when I purchase too much or if it’s raining to protect my purse.

I’ve found that water bottles are just too space-consuming in my bag but I also need something to hold my drinks so finding a solid solution like Stojo solved that issue easily.

SZEP Barbara, Eithad Airlines

While working as a flight attendant with Etihad Airlines, SZEP Barbara makes sure to protect her skin while in the air with a travel-size SPF moisturizer and stays prepared for any city she lands in by always traveling with a universal adapter. 

SZEP Barbara's travel essentials:

An item that I always have with me are my facial creams. I prefer to use onboard cream with high moisturizer and SPF.

The last item that I always carry with me is an international travel adapter. As cabin crew, we travel around the world and different countries have different sockets so I like to always be prepared.

You can purchase logo and accolade licensing to this story here . Disclosure: Written and researched by the Insider Reviews team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our partners. We may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at [email protected] .

• Main content

Don't lose your items on the plane. They could end up resold here. | Cruising Altitude

Losing luggage is a nightmare scenario for many travelers. It could mean having to buy a whole new wardrobe or even parting with something near and dear to them.

But those lost items are sometimes given a second chapter thanks to Unclaimed Baggage, a store and e-commerce site that resells many items that vanish during travel.

“Airlines really are great in reuniting lost luggage,” Sonni Hood, public relations manager at Unclaimed Baggage, told me. But, she said, “a fraction of a percent adds up quickly when you consider that millions of people fly every day.” 

The store in Scottsboro, Alabama, said it introduces about 7,000 items to its shelves every day, and the online shopping portal sees about 5,000 new items each week. 

In a new report that Unclaimed Baggage plans to release annually, the store details the most common items in lost bags for the year.

“The different things that are happening in our culture eventually find their way into what people are packing in their suitcase,” Hood said. 

According to the Found Report , some of the most common items in 2023 were underwear, shoes and tablets/e-readers. (Sonni swore an oath that the store sells only unused underwear, so go forth with your shopping in peace.)

She also said lost luggage can teach you a lot about consumer trends. Lululemon is clearly having a moment – it’s one of the most popular brands in the store right now. Stanley cups also saw a spike in appearances in 2023, edging out Yetis and other thermos brands that were more popular in the past. Even electronics come and go in waves.

“Last year we found hardly any DSs, (but) we found so many Nintendo Switches,” Hood said.

The report also details some of the more novel finds of 2023, including two live snakes, 19 Rolex watches, a jar full of shark teeth, and a Halloween card from the 1980s signed by President Richard Nixon.

How to avoid losing your bags when you travel

Hood said there are simple steps travelers can take to make it less likely they lose their stuff in the first place – or more likely they’re reunited with it if something goes wrong.

Here are her essential tips:

• Label your bag inside and out with your name and up-to-date contact information.
• Remove old stickers and bag tags from your checked luggage.
• Make your suitcase stand out on the carousel so someone doesn’t accidentally take it.
• Pack all your essentials, like medicines, in your carry-on bag.
• And finally, don’t rush.

“Whenever you’re getting off the plane, it’s so easy to leave your Kindle or a cellphone or your glasses in the seat,” Hood said. So take a second to really make sure you have everything with you before you depart.

As someone who once left his jacket in the overhead bin and then spent hours trying to find it at the lost and found in London Heathrow Airport, I agree.

As Hood said earlier, airlines are generally pretty good about reuniting passengers with lost items. I did get that jacket back, for example. Here’s the process at the four largest U.S. airlines if you lose something on your trip.

American Airlines' lost luggage process

American recommends filing a report with the airport or with the Transportation Security Administration if you know you lost your stuff on the ground. But if you lost it on an aircraft or in a lounge, or you’re not sure where along your journey you may have left your things, there’s a process for filing a claim through AA.

According to American, once you file a claim, the airline will search for your items for up to 30 days. For lost baggage specifically, American requires you to make a report in person at the Baggage Services Office within four hours of landing. You'll also need to submit an online claim form and a checklist of the items when reporting a lost bag and requesting reimbursement for any of its contents. 

For all other individual items, AA has an online claim form, accessible by clicking here . 

Delta Air Lines' lost luggage process

Delta has online forms for lost, delayed or damaged bags and missing , nonchecked items that were lost on board, in a Delta lounge or in the gate area.

According to the airline, it will search for lost bags for about 21 days, and 30 days for lost nonchecked items after receiving a report. The airline recommends being as detailed as possible in your missing-items report and filing the report within seven days of noticing the items are missing. 

United Airlines' lost luggage process

United has an online claims process for lost luggage that hasn’t been found within five days of your arrival. The airline recommends going to the Baggage Service Airport if your luggage hasn’t arrived when you land or calling the Baggage Recovery Center if you’ve already left the airport. United requires passengers to report missing bags within 24 hours within the U.S., U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam and Puerto Rico and within seven days at international destinations.

For missing nonchecked items, United also has an online form . 

Southwest Airlines' lost luggage process

Southwest requires passengers to file a report in person at the airport’s Baggage Service Offices if their bag does not arrive or to file an online report if they have already left the airport. 

Southwest requires passengers to make their claim within four hours of arrival for a domestic flight and within seven days for an international itinerary.

The missing-bag claim form also has an option for missing nonchecked items. 

Zach Wichter is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in New York. You can reach him at [email protected]

• Moscow Tourism
• Moscow Hotels
• Moscow Bed and Breakfast
• Moscow Vacation Rentals
• Flights to Moscow
• Moscow Restaurants
• Things to Do in Moscow
• Moscow Travel Forum
• Moscow Photos
• All Moscow Hotels
• Moscow Hotel Deals
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Vacation Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

35 kg luggage limit - Moscow Forum

• Europe    
• Russia    
• Central Russia    
• Moscow    

35 kg luggage limit

• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Vacation Rentals
• Central Russia forums
• Moscow forum

When arriving to Russia, I understand that your luggage cannot exceed 35 kg. Otherwise, they charge you 4 euros per kg. Is it just the checked luggage or does it also include the carry-on?

Also, but again, check with airline , weight limits get applied per bag, and your airline and flyer status will then determine whether you get more than 1 free checked bag...

I was wondering that one is being enforced. Thanks.

Ok, thanks, I was wondering.It is no misprint. Look at this link: http://www.svo.aero/en/customs/arrival/

Ah, now I see what you mean. This regulation is actually meant to prevent people bringing expensive goods for resale disguised as personal belongings which are not subject to import duties and taxes. As long as your daughter's stuff looks like personal belongings and not like merchandise (like five brand new iPads in original packaging for example or three brand new fur coats) the customs won't mind.

Thanks, this makes sense! I really appreciate this.

PLEASE do NOT do what I do, but a funny thing about "As long as your daughter brings in a "plausible" amt of baggage i.e. she is not wheeling 3 suitcases"...I in fact always end up with 2 larger suitcases and a carry-on I wear as a back-pack...mostly filled with gifts for friends and relatives (latter on my wife's side)...

Admittedly, not "3 iPads"!

But, I never even get a second look in zipping thru the green (nothing to declare) corridor, and have been doing this for 5-6 years now...

• Train Booking Moscow to St. Peter Mar 29, 2024
• Union Pay debit card Mar 27, 2024
• Russian trying to book a hotel in Jerusalem Mar 14, 2024
• Dual Citizen Arrested in Russia Mar 12, 2024
• about clothes Feb 27, 2024
• NOTE - border crossing from Finland into Russia closed Feb 09, 2024
• Snow boots in Red Square Feb 04, 2024
• Travelling to Moscow & Murmansk with toddle in winter Feb 02, 2024
• Anyone traveling from London to Moscow this week ? Jan 27, 2024
• Booking accommodation Jan 11, 2024
• Traveling friends (Designers preferred) :) Jan 05, 2024
• Are shops and things closed during Christmas and New Week ? Dec 15, 2023
• Traveling to Eastern Russia Nov 17, 2023
• Travel to russia september 2023 tips welcome Oct 17, 2023
• Moscow to St Petersburg train or air?? 32 replies
• New Sapsan Express Train from Moscow to St Petersburg 18 replies
• New year's in moscow 8 replies
• Hop on Hop Off Bus Tour 5 replies
• How do you purchase Bolshoi Ballet tickets at a great price? 2 replies
• Select-a-room.com Are they legitimate? 3 replies
• Weather Moscow and St. petersburg in May 8 replies
• Night train to St Petersburg 3 replies
• ATM Access 12 replies
• Visa needed if on layover at Moscow Airport??????? 15 replies

Moscow Hotels and Places to Stay

• Where can I get initial answers to ANY question?

• Small kitchen appliances

I'm a Toaster Oven Lover. And I Really Love This One That Doubles as an Air Fryer.

Listen, I’ve been through some things with a toaster oven. When I lived in Beijing as an adult, most kitchens were ovenless, so expats like myself had to buy large toaster ovens in order to bake or roast things at home. On Thanksgiving, I’d lug mine to a friend’s house so we could use both our ovens for the holiday meal—a 14-pound turkey flirting with the heating element in one, and green beans, sweet potatoes, and herbed stuffing cycling through the other.

Suffice to say, I demand a lot from this appliance. Even then, the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro impresses me. It heats quickly and evenly, combining the gentle consistency of a full-size oven and the crisping power of an air fryer.

Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro

An air fryer toaster oven that really does it all.

This reliable, versatile oven can coddle fragile bakes or deliver super-crunchy tater tots in one sleek, if splurgy, machine.

Buying Options

You save $80 (20%)

It really can do all the things

We’ve done a lot of testing on this genre of appliances: plain ol’ toaster ovens , air fryers (the pod-shaped ones), and air fryer toaster ovens . In short, if it uses a heating element to zap your food, we’ve spent an inordinate amount of time thinking about it.

Senior staff writer Michael Sullivan, who did the original research and writing for all of these guides (plus our slot toaster guide ), can tell you in his sleep that it’s really hard to combine the speed and power of an air fryer with the evenness, versatility, and sheer volume of a nice, big toaster oven. In other words, for a long time we thought that you can’t really have your (evenly baked) cake and an air fryer, too. But the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro nearly proves us wrong.

It roasts and bakes

My family’s wall oven is old, with a faulty door that doesn’t close all the way and unreliable temperature regulation. So I eagerly volunteered to test the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer at home. Ever since, we’ve come to rely on this toaster oven even for big-oven tasks like roasting a whole chicken (or braising one in our dutch oven).

It’s great for veggies, too. We’ve broiled green beans and roasted brussels sprouts in it. Once, my husband threw together some basic potato wedges that were so uniformly crisp on the outside and pillowy soft on the inside that you almost can’t say the word “potato” in our house without a child running up to you, a bright hope in their eyes, to whisper-ask, “...wedges?”

We’ve also baked cakes, brownies, and cookies in it, with terrific results. It’s even pulled off more finicky projects like chewy meringue cookies.

It air fries

Of all the large toaster ovens we’ve tested that promise air frying capability, the Breville oven came the closest to actually acting like an air fryer (albeit a larger, slower one). In our test kitchen, it produced frozen french fries with crispy shells and creamy insides, and crunchy-but-still-tender fish sticks. And it made them faster than our favorite convection toaster oven pick, the Cuisinart Chef’s Convection Toaster Oven TOB-260N1 .

At home, we’ve seen similarly delightful results with all sorts of frozen foods: chicken nuggets, tater tots, hash brown patties, french fries, and shrimp tempura, just to name a scant few.

If you’ll permit me one piece of unsolicited advice: Don’t use the frying basket. Everything tastes better (and crisps up faster) when you use the included baking tray—or, as we commonly do, a Nordic Ware quarter-sheet pan .

Toaster ovens inevitably take longer than slot toasters to get your morning slices golden brown, but with our pick from Breville, what you sacrifice in speed, you can make up in volume.

When we have a loaf of sourdough in our house, I cannot toast those slabs (or slather them with butter) fast enough before the carb monsters I call my children inhale them and cry for more. We can pack out a single rack of the Breville oven with six to eight slices of sourdough, preventing our kitchen table from turning into the latest Hunger Games arena.

Although the Breville oven didn’t toast quite as evenly in tests as our runner-up air fryer toaster oven pick , it still does a pretty great job.

And it’s a dream to use (with a few small quirks)

Small details on this oven’s interface make it feel fahn-cy. Printed on the oven door are guides for where to slide in the racks and trays if you’re air frying versus toasting versus baking. The door also has small magnets so that when you open it, the rack will automatically slide out. This makes it easier to check for doneness or pull out your food.

The screen and dials combine sleek technology with intuitive manual controls—you spin the time or temperature dials to adjust them to your desired settings—so warming up your leftovers doesn’t feel like you’re taking the SAT.

I also love that the timer automatically pauses when you open the door to check on your goods. It does, however, have one annoying quirk: The timer doesn’t run while the oven is preheating, but as soon as it hits the set temperature, the clock starts ticking. Rarely am I standing in front of the toaster oven, poised to slide in my cookies right when we get to 375 °F, so I almost always have to fiddle with the time when I start my bake. But, in the grand scheme of things, that’s a small nit to pick.

It is kind of massive, though—and pricey

With a footprint of 19 by 16 inches, this toaster oven requires no small amount of counter space. And it’s heavy, so you probably don’t want to be moving it around. All this volume also means it takes longer to heat up, so you won’t get cooking as fast as you would with a dedicated air fryer .

And the Breville oven’s luxe experience comes at a price—$400, to be exact. If you have the counter space and would benefit from our pick’s impressive versatility, the investment is worth it. This is one of the truly do-it-all kitchen appliances we’ve tested, and it will last longer than your average toaster or air fryer.

If you can find it on sale, even better. Our Deals team has tracked low prices on it during the spring and the week of Black Friday for the past few years.

These small tasks help your oven last

The Breville oven’s quality build also makes it easier to care for than any other toaster oven we’ve tested. The nonstick interior wipes down easily, as does the brushed stainless steel exterior. And the crumb tray is easy to remove and slide back in.

The accessories, like the baking tray and the racks, have also held up fine to occasional hand-washing. And should you lose or break any of the accessories, Breville sells those individually on its website.

I empty the crumb tray fairly often and wipe down surfaces when we remember, but by no means am I religious about it. Still, the Breville oven is working like it’s brand-spanking-new after a year and a half of consistent use. Like most Breville appliances, the Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro also comes with a two-year limited warranty.

All this means it’s likely to tempt me with a parade of tater tots for years to come.

This article was edited by Rachelle Bergstein and Catherine Kast.

Meet your guide

Marilyn Ong

Marilyn Ong is a supervising editor for Wirecutter’s kitchen team, covering everything from ice cream makers and Instant Pots to toasters and trash cans. Prior to this, she was an arts and then restaurants editor in Beijing, and she also took time away from blinking cursors to be a caretaker for her three young kids. Cooking for her family gave her a healthy obsession with finding the best affordable tools for the kitchen—but when she’s cooking for herself, all she needs is instant ramen and an egg.