10 Ingenious Packing Tips You Won’t Find in Travel Guides

Traveling is exciting as you explore new places and meet new people. We all know what’s not so fun. Packing! 

According to research, 65% of Americans admitted to facing challenges when packing for a trip. It’s a puzzle trying to fit everything you need into your suitcase without exceeding weight limits or forgetting something you might need on the go.

No worries! There are many clever tricks and tips to make packing easier. These hacks can help you pack more innovative and make the process less stressful.

Packing Cubes

Asian mother prepares clothes and bags to be taken on vacation trips
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Packing cubes are small, zippered fabric containers used to organize clothes and accessories within luggage. Instead of loose items scattered throughout your suitcase, packing cubes allow you to divide your belongings into organized compartments within your luggage and group similar things together for easy access. 

Pro Tip: Different colored packing cubes for each family member or each type of clothing can streamline unpacking and prevent mix-ups.

Roll Clothes

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According to a survey by Cheapflights, 70% of travelers chose to fold their clothes instead of opting for the rolling method, which many believe saves space. Rolling clothes effectively minimizes creases and wrinkles and eliminates the air trapped within them. 

Pro Tip: Rolling clothes tightly and using rubber bands to secure them can further optimize space and organization within the luggage

Utilize Vacuum Bags

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Vacuum bags compress clothing by removing air, allowing for more efficient packing. Besides that, vacuum bags create an airtight seal around your belongings, protecting them from moisture, dust, and odors. However, do not store anything in them for an extended time.

Prioritize using vacuum bags for bulkier items such as jackets and sweaters to maximize space savings.

Use Shoe Space

Sad (tired) woman sitting in the airport - missed or cancelled flight concept.
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Stuffing socks, underwear, or small items inside shoes can utilize space and help shoes maintain their shape.

Roll Belts Inside Collars

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Place belts inside shirt collars when packing to help them maintain their shape and save space in your luggage. Slide rolled-up belts through the collars of button-up shirts or dresses to prevent them from getting crushed or wrinkled during travel.

Sock Stuffers for Gadgets

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Use clean socks to store and protect small electronic gadgets like chargers, headphones, and adapters. This saves space and provides extra cushioning.

Choose brightly colored socks for gadget storage, making them easy to spot in your luggage and reducing the chances of leaving them behind.

Scarf as a Multipurpose Tool

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A large scarf that can act as a beach coverup, a picnic blanket, or a makeshift bag for souvenirs. You can also be creative about it and use it as an eye mask, travel pillow, or a privacy screen to change clothes in times of emergency.

Electronics Cable Organizer 

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If you wear one at the airport, use the empty sunglasses case or a small pouch to store and organize electronics cables, chargers, and adapters. This prevents tangling and keeps everything in one place.

Packing Essentials in Carry-On

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According to a report by SITA’s, in 2022, 80% of luggage was delayed, 13% was damaged, and 7% were lost or stolen. That’s quite a lot!

The airlines misplaced our luggage twice – once en route to Bali and once in Thailand. We learned our lessons, and you should, too.

Pack essential items like medication, a change of clothes, toiletries, and valuables in your carry-on bag. This ensures you have everything you need if your checked luggage is delayed or lost. 

Pro Tip: Use a packing cube or pouch to keep your carry-on essentials organized and easily accessible during the flight or while navigating airports.

Layering Clothing

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Instead of packing bulky sweaters or coats, opt for layering lightweight clothing items like thermal tops and jackets. This provides warmth without taking up too much space in your luggage.

You can team up a denim jacket and scarf with floral dresses or a plain t-shirt with a button-down and a cardigan. 

Pro Tip: Wear your bulkiest clothing items, such as jackets, hoodies, overcoats or boots, on the plane to free up space in your suitcase and keep you warm during travel

Remember these handy tips next time you prepare for a trip and share them with fellow travelers. Let’s make packing a breeze and focus on enjoying the travel ahead! 

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