Skip to main content

10 must-know packing tips to help you travel smarter and lighter

These pointers will help you leave packing mistakes in the past

Man carrying luggage in both hands
Kit (formerly ConvertKit) / Unsplash

Packing is one of those travel chores we all have to deal with, no matter how unpleasant it can be. ​​Over the years, I’ve had my fair share of packing mishaps, from overstuffing a suitcase to forgetting essentials like a toothbrush (lesson learned!). These packing tips come from experience and will help you pack smart, no matter where you’re headed.

1. Always start with a packing list

black packing list next to laptop
Markus Winkler / Pexels

If you’re the type to wing it and just toss things into your bag, it may be time to try something new. A packing list is a lifesaver, especially when you’re juggling a million pre-travel to-dos. Jot down everything you’ll need: clothes, shoes, toiletries, chargers, and any must-have items specific to your trip.

Recommended Videos

The beauty of a list is that it keeps you focused. Instead of second-guessing if you packed your phone charger or enough socks, you can check it all off and relax.

2. Roll your clothes instead of folding them

open suitcase with rolled clothes inside
Kindel Media / Pexels

If you haven’t tried rolling your clothes, you’re missing out. Rolling saves space and helps keep your clothes wrinkle-free – a win-win. It’s perfect for T-shirts, pants, and lightweight jackets.

For bulkier items, like sweaters or jeans, fold them and place them flat on top of your rolled clothes. Need even more room? Stuff smaller items, like underwear and socks, into shoes or corners of your bag.

3. Pack clothes you can mix and match

a man packing clothes in his luggage
Vlada Karpovich / Pexels

One of the best packing tips for travelers is choosing versatile pieces that work together. Think neutral tops and bottoms that you can mix and match, plus a couple of statement pieces if you’re planning a nice dinner or event.

REI recommends bringing one hat, two pairs of shoes, three bottoms, four tops (including short sleeves, long sleeves, or outer layers), five pairs of socks, and six pairs of underwear. This combination should cover you for a two-week trip.

Layers are key, too. A lightweight jacket or scarf can keep you warm without taking up much space. And don’t forget comfortable shoes that go with everything!

4. Invest in packing cubes

Cube meshed bags with rolled clothes
sasimoto / Shutterstock

Using packing cubes might seem like overkill, but once you use them, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them. These little organizers make it easy to group your clothes, shirts in one, bottoms in another, and so on.

When you get to your destination, unpacking is easy. Rather than digging through your whole suitcase, you can simply pull out the cube you need. They also help compress your clothes which gives you a little extra room to work with.

5. Don’t forget a laundry bag

dirty laundry in a blue basket
Annie Spratt / Unsplash

This one’s so simple, but so effective. A designated laundry bag (or even a large plastic bag) keeps your dirty clothes separate from your clean ones.

If you’re traveling for more than a few days, having a place to stash dirty clothes helps keep your suitcase organized and your clean items fresh; it makes a big difference!

6. Be smart about shoes

line up of sneakers on rack
Hermes Rivera/Unsplash / Unsplash

Shoes are one of the bulkiest things in your bag, so pack them wisely. The sweet spot is usually three pairs:

  • Comfortable walking shoes for the day.
  • A dressier option for evenings or special occasions.
  • Casual sandals or sneakers, depending on your destination.

7. Keep toiletries to a minimum

man packing personal case essentials in a bag
Supply / Unsplash

It’s easy to overdo it on toiletries, but unless you’re heading to the middle of nowhere, you can skip bringing your entire bathroom cabinet. Stick to travel-sized versions of the essentials: shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, and deodorant.

Want to save even more space? Try solid alternatives like shampoo bars or multi-purpose products. And always, always pack your toiletries in a leak-proof bag because no one wants to deal with a shampoo explosion mid-trip.

8. Always pack essentials in your carry-on

someone carrying a duffel bag and someone carrying a backpack next to each other
Diana / Pexels

If you’re flying, your carry-on is your best friend. Use it to stash anything you can’t afford to lose, like your passport, medication, and electronics.

It’s also smart to include a change of clothes and basic toiletries in case your checked luggage gets delayed. Pack snacks, headphones, a book, and anything else you need to stay comfortable during the journey.

9. Plan to do laundry if you’re going on a longer trip

Man loading washing machine
Antonio Arcos / Getty Images

When you’re traveling for more than a week, one of the best packing tips for packing light is planning for laundry. Instead of cramming your suitcase with enough outfits for 14 days, pack for 7 and plan to wash your clothes midway through.

Many hotels, Airbnbs, and hostels have laundry facilities, or you can bring a small pack of travel detergent for quick sink washes. 

10. Double-check weight limits and luggage rules

Airport
geralt / Pixabay

Before you head to the airport, take a minute to weigh your bags and check your airline’s luggage policies. Overweight fees are no joke, and different airlines have different rules for carry-on sizes and checked bags. A quick check now can save you time (and money) later.

Kelly Baker
Kelly is a writer who loves good books, baking homemade bread, playing the piano, and spending time with her family.
Travel tips: How to pop your ears (and keep them from getting clogged again)
Let’s tackle the frustrating problem of clogged ears once and for all
Man holding his ears

Have you ever had that plugged-up feeling in your ears? You know, when it happens mid-flight, during allergy season or after a nasty cold? That uncomfortable pressure can make sounds feel muffled and even throw off your balance.

I had one particularly awful flight where my ears wouldn’t pop for hours after landing. I didn’t realize how muffled my voice was until I caught myself yelling at the airline staff. It was rough, but it forced me to figure out the best ways to relieve ear pressure, and more importantly, how to prevent it from coming back.

Read more
Safari packing list: Must-haves and what not to bring
Your go-to list to avoid bug bites, dehydration, and wardrobe fails
Man in a car on a safari with elephants in the background

The first time I went on a safari, I brought the wrong colored clothes, forgot a good pair of binoculars, and didn’t realize how cold the mornings could be. By day two, I was borrowing an extra fleece from a fellow traveler and covering my arms in bug spray like it was sunscreen. Lesson learned!

Packing for a safari needs to be carefully put together, which is why this safari packing list covers all the essentials so you can focus on the adventure (not what you forgot back home).
Clothing: What to wear on a safari

Read more
Camping tips: How to dry your hiking shoes fast after a rainy day on the trail
How to dry your camping shoes overnight
Man wearing yellow jacket and backpack hiking or rucking in forest or woods with tall trees

If you've been hiking for any length of time, chances are you've encountered a bit of rain or a mud puddle here or there. Sometimes, trails can seem like downright swamps, especially in the Seattle area, where it rains for much of the year. As an avid hiker in the Seattle area, wet hiking shoes are the norm here. There are several different ways to combat this, especially when you need to have your hiking shoes in top shape by morning. Here's how to dry your hiking shoes overnight while camping.
How to dry your wet hiking shoes overnight

Dry them by the campfire
One of the best ways to dry shoes is by using the heat from your campfire if fires are allowed at your campsite. This can be done safely if you place them near but not too close to your fire. Remove the insoles and let them air out naturally.

Read more