May 20, 2025
By Janset Çinaz
Copy Editor
This piece is part of a three-part in-depth reporting project about travel.
1. Make a packing list. Write down everything you’ll need on your phone or on paper. Make sure to prioritize important items such as documents, electronics and medications.
2. Use packing cubes or zipper storage bags. These items will keep your clothes neat and maximize space in your luggage. For longer trips, group items by type–such as pants, shirts and undergarments–for easy access.
3. Leave room for souvenirs. Set aside space in your suitcase for any items you bring back from your trip.
4. Pack your clothes as outfits. For short trips, plan and pack your outfits before closing your suitcase. It will save you the stress of deciding what to wear when you reach your destination.
5. Pack versatile clothing. Choose neutral colors and layerable pieces that mix and match easily. This allows travelers to pack fewer outfits and create timeless looks.
6. Write your contact information on a tag attached to your luggage. When checking in a suitcase, there is always a risk that it will get lost or misplaced. Therefore, write your full name, address, email and phone number on your luggage tag so your suitcase gets back to you.
7. Bring a laundry bag. Pack a lightweight laundry bag for your dirty clothes. This item ensures that dirty or stained items remain separate from the rest of your garments.
8. Wear your bulkiest items on the airplane. Wear heavy pieces like oversized hoodies and jackets during your flight to save space in your suitcase. This will also help keep your luggage’s weight below the limit.
9. Roll your clothes instead of folding them. Rolling saves space and reduces wrinkles. It is an ideal packing method for casual clothes like jeans, sweatshirts and T-shirts that don’t need ironing.
10. Place plastic wrap under liquid bottle caps. Adding this layer of protection can keep products from spilling.
STOCK IMAGES FROM CANVA
