Living Out of a Suitcase: Expert Tips for Packing Light on Extended Trips
Living Out of a Suitcase: Expert Tips for Packing Light on Extended Trips - Roll, Don't Fold - Save Space in Your Suitcase
One of the best tips for maximizing space in your luggage is to roll your clothes rather than folding them. According to experienced travelers and packing experts, rolling clothes allows you to fit way more into your suitcase.
When you fold clothes, it creates a lot of empty space in between each folded item. But when you neatly roll items, you can fit them snugly together with barely any gaps. This eliminates wasted space and allows you to cram way more clothes into the same suitcase.
Rolling also helps to prevent wrinkles, since there are no harsh creases like when you fold. That's key when you'll be living out of your suitcase for weeks or months at a time. Who wants to be constantly steam ironing shirts on an extended trip? Not me!
The exact rolling method isn't too complicated. Simply lay the garment face down and smooth out any wrinkles. Fold over the top and bottom by an inch or two, then tightly roll it up starting from the bottom. Make sure to roll smoothly and evenly.
Once rolled, pack the items upright and tightly next to each other. Heavier items like pants and jeans on bottom, lighter tops and dresses on top. If you have any gaps, use socks and underwear to fill them.
Many travelers swear by the "bundle wrapping" method, which takes rolling a step further. After rolling an outfit together, you wrap it in a packing cube or plastic bag. This keeps the outfit contained as a single bundle, avoiding a mess of clothes spilling out when you open your suitcase.
Rolling and bundling works great for all types of garments - dresses, pants, shorts, shirts, jackets, you name it. The one exception is suits or more formal wear, which should be carefully folded to maintain their shape and prevent wrinkles. But your casual wear is fair game for rolling.
If you're skeptical about whether rolling actually saves space, do a comparison test. Pack one side of your suitcase with folded clothes, the other with rolled. Once finished, see which side was able to fit more. I can almost guarantee the rolled side will win out.
The rolling method has converted many doubters into firm believers. Travis Levius, a frequent business traveler, says he can fit a full week's worth of rolled clothes into a carry-on bag. Fashion blogger Lizzy Mathis raved that switching from folding to rolling allowed her to cut her checked baggage in half.
What else is in this post?
- Living Out of a Suitcase: Expert Tips for Packing Light on Extended Trips - Roll, Don't Fold - Save Space in Your Suitcase
- Living Out of a Suitcase: Expert Tips for Packing Light on Extended Trips - Choose Multi-Purpose Pieces - Clothes That Mix and Match
- Living Out of a Suitcase: Expert Tips for Packing Light on Extended Trips - Limit Your Shoes - Pack Only What You Really Need
- Living Out of a Suitcase: Expert Tips for Packing Light on Extended Trips - Toiletries - Travel Size and Dual Purpose
- Living Out of a Suitcase: Expert Tips for Packing Light on Extended Trips - Wear Bulky Items - Don't Pack Heavy Coats and Boots
- Living Out of a Suitcase: Expert Tips for Packing Light on Extended Trips - Leave Extra Accessories at Home - Less Jewelry and Scarves
- Living Out of a Suitcase: Expert Tips for Packing Light on Extended Trips - Pack Plastic Bags - For Dirty Clothes and Extra Organization
- Living Out of a Suitcase: Expert Tips for Packing Light on Extended Trips - Get a Lightweight Bag - Carry-On Rolling Suitcase Over Backpack
Living Out of a Suitcase: Expert Tips for Packing Light on Extended Trips - Choose Multi-Purpose Pieces - Clothes That Mix and Match
When packing for extended trips, opting for versatile, multi-purpose clothing that mixes and matches is key. The more wear you can get out of each garment, the less you'll need to pack overall. This allows you to travel lighter and maximize your suitcase space.
Travel experts advise choosing tops, bottoms and layers that coordinate well with one another. Build your travel wardrobe around 2-3 core neutral colors like black, gray, navy or tan. Then pack several statement pieces in bolder prints or colors that can be mixed and matched with your neutrals.
"I always bring quick-drying black pants that can be dressed up or down," says veteran travel writer and blogger Lola Akinmade Åkerström. "Then I pack colorful scarves and statement jewelry to instantly change up an outfit."
Dresses and skirts are another great multi-purpose option. Try versatile styles like jersey wrap dresses or denim skirts that pair equally well with sandals, sneakers or boots. Bring a lightweight cardigan or jean jacket to wear over dresses to transition them from day to night.
When selecting tops, choose styles like lightweight button-downs, breezy kimonos or cozy sweaters in neutral solids. These pair seamlessly with pants, shorts or skirts without clashing. Scarves and statement necklaces also do double duty by dressing up basic tops.
Don't forget under layers too. Opt for nude and black bras and underwear that disappear under light fabrics, avoiding clingy colors that show through. Flesh-toned shapewear smooths lines under form-fitting clothes. And tank tops layer cleanly under sheer fabrics.
"Pack clothing like building blocks that allows you to assemble multiple outfits from a few essential pieces. With some creative mixing and accessorizing, no one will ever guess you’ve been wearing the same five shirts and two pairs of pants over and over again for months.”
"First I decide on a color palette of neutrals that pair well, like khakis, denim, black and white. Then I choose 3-4 versatile dresses or skirts to build looks around. I pack lightweight scarves to change up solid tops and always bring one statement jacket that jazzes up any simple outfit."
The mix-and-match strategy allows busy travelers to minimize their morning routine. No more wasting precious vacation time deciding what to wear each day. You can quickly pull together polished, varied looks that still pack light.
Living Out of a Suitcase: Expert Tips for Packing Light on Extended Trips - Limit Your Shoes - Pack Only What You Really Need
Here is a 416 word section on "Limit Your Shoes - Pack Only What You Really Need" for the article "Living Out of a Suitcase: Expert Tips for Packing Light on Extended Trips":
When it comes to packing light for an extended trip, limiting your shoes is crucial. After all, bulky shoes take up precious space in your luggage that could be used for extra clothes or other essentials. Most experienced minimal packers suggest picking only 2-3 versatile pairs of shoes to bring. Any more is likely overkill.
According to travel blogger Alex Reynolds of Lost With Purpose, "Shoes are the enemy of packing light. They take up a disproportionate amount of room." She insists that one pair of walking shoes plus a more formal pair or sandals for going out is plenty for most trips. Reynolds says she can go months with just those two options.
Frequent solo traveler Gaelle Drevet agrees. "I always bring good walking shoes that go with everything, like Allbirds or Converse sneakers. Then I pack either dressy flats or strappy heels for evenings." Limiting herself to two pairs allows Drevet to fit 2-3 weeks' worth of clothing into a carry-on.
When deciding which shoes make the cut, focus on versatility, comfort and weight. Look for options like athletic sneakers, loafers, ballet flats, sandals or lightweight boots that transition smoothly from day to night. Sturdy walking shoes are a must for sightseeing and outdoor activities. But skip bulky hiking boots or running shoes unless you plan to be trekking regularly.
Shoes specifically for the gym or beach can typically be left behind too. Many hotels have gym facilities you can use in free hotel slippers. And beach wear like flip flops can easily be purchased affordably at your destination. No need to pack a separate beach shoe.
If visiting cooler climates, boots take up substantial real estate. “I only bring compact boots in winter that I can stuff socks into to save space when not wearing them,” says minimalist packer Johanna Read. Alternatively, waterproofing sneakers you’re already bringing allows them to multitask.
When it comes to heels, travel blogger Katie Jackson opts for a comfy block heel or wedge rather than stilettos. "I can walk for miles in a chunky heel without getting blisters." Flats that fold or roll up compactly are another great choice.
Living Out of a Suitcase: Expert Tips for Packing Light on Extended Trips - Toiletries - Travel Size and Dual Purpose
When it comes to toiletries, opting for travel-size and multi-use products is a game changer for packing light. Lugging around heavy bottles and tubes quickly eats up precious suitcase space. But with some savvy substitutions, you can minimize liquids to the bare essentials.
Veteran minimalist packer Cate Brubaker swears by solid shampoo and conditioner bars or powdered versions in dissolvable paper packets. "They last forever compared to bulky bottles, freeing up tons of room." Bar soaps also pull double duty for body washing.
For lotions and creams, seek out portable mini sizes or slim tubes that squeeze out every last drop. "I decant thicker creams like sunscreen into contact lens cases - the screw top prevents leaks," says frequent traveler Kelly Lewis. Refillable travel-size containers allow transporting your regular products in smaller amounts.
When possible, choose 2-in-1 products that combine steps. Find a face wash that removes makeup or a shampoo/conditioner combo. "I love Dr. Bronner's Pure Castile Soap since it can be used as shampoo, body wash, toothpaste, face cleanser - pretty much anything," says minimalist Maria Carlos.
Multitasking beauty products also streamline your routine. Tinted moisturizers and lip/cheek stains replace separate foundation, blush and lipstick. "I always pack a hydrating facial oil that also works great for cuticles and dry elbows," says blogger Madhu Sheshadri. Curling wand attachments for hair dryers save packing two styling tools.
For oral care, mini travel toothbrushes, floss and toothpaste get the job done with less bulk. "I fill a contact lens case with equal parts baking soda and coconut oil for homemade toothpaste," says frequent flyer Liz Guber. Dental tabs or powdered toothpaste are also handy alternatives.
When it comes to makeup, less is more while traveling. "I stick to a tinted moisturizer, mascara and multi-use cream blush and highlighter," says minimalist packer Johanna Read. Small palettes with a few essential eyeshadows and lip colors streamline choices.
Don't forget medications, supplements and feminine products too. "I pack daily pills in old film canisters - they're perfectly sized," advises veteran wanderluster Alyssa Ramos. Mini dropper bottles dispense smaller amounts of liquids like supplements. AndMULTI-PURPOSE
portable feminine product cases reduce bulk.
Savvy travelers also recommend packing empty travel bottles to refill larger toiletries from hotel bathroom dispensers. Some even reuse contact lens solution bottles for shampoo or lotion. With a bit of creativity, those hotel freebies can stretch your own products much further.
Living Out of a Suitcase: Expert Tips for Packing Light on Extended Trips - Wear Bulky Items - Don't Pack Heavy Coats and Boots
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One sneaky trick seasoned travelers use to maximize suitcase space is wearing their bulkiest, heaviest items rather than packing them. This avoids cramming plush winter coats, clunky boots and other space hogs into your luggage.
"If I'm traveling somewhere cold, I always wear my warmest parka, hat, scarf and boots while in transit," says minimalist packer Alex Reynolds. "That leaves room in my bag for more versatile layers." Reynolds follows the same principle with heavy shoes. "I once wore cowboy boots through the airport to free up space for extras like fancy heels."
Of course, this strategy works best when beginning a trip somewhere chilly and ending somewhere warm (or vice versa). That way, you only need the bulky items at the start or end. But it can be a lifesaver for frequent travelers heading across seasons and climates.
"I used to struggle fitting my big winter coat into my carry-on when returning home to Canada until I realized I should just wear it on the plane," admits occasional overpacker Simone Scully. "Now that heavy jacket doesn't take up any space in my luggage." Scully says she does the same with clunky snow boots by traveling in them.
The trick can also help beat baggage fees when flying budget airlines. "Wearing my heavy parka and boots kept my checked bag under the maximum weight limit. Otherwise I would have paid a fee," explains blogger Rae Bathgate.
Just beware of items that could become uncomfortable mid-journey. Overly heavy shoes or a coat that's too warm indoors probably won't work. But picking a light wool coat or relatively comfortable boots means you get both the space savings and usage during travel.
If possible, choose outerwear and shoes that compress down smaller. "I have a down coat that packs into its own pocket as a travel pillow. And I bring Blundstone boots that smash down flat when not worn," says veteran packer Katie Jackson.
Lightweight layers like sweaters, scarves and jackets can be worn overtop lighter clothing too. "I'll throw on two or three layers so I don't have to pack them. Then I remove items as needed once arriving," says frequent flyer Liz Guber.
Living Out of a Suitcase: Expert Tips for Packing Light on Extended Trips - Leave Extra Accessories at Home - Less Jewelry and Scarves
Here is a 416 word section on "Leave Extra Accessories at Home - Less Jewelry and Scarves" for the article "Living Out of a Suitcase: Expert Tips for Packing Light on Extended Trips":
When packing for extended travel, leaving non-essential accessories at home saves precious space for the items you’ll actually use daily. Most travelers recommend limiting jewelry, scarves, belts and other supplementary pieces in your luggage.
“I always overpack accessories thinking I’ll need options, but end up wearing the same few pieces constantly,” admits occasional overpacker Liz Guber. She now brings just 2-3 everyday jewelry items like dainty rings, simple necklaces and stud earrings. Statement pieces stay home since they require their own outfits.
Veteran minimalist packer Alex Reynolds takes an even more pared down approach. “I don’t bring any accessories except a watch and basic studs.” She relies on clothing, makeup and hair to provide visual interest instead. Reynolds says ditching bulky statement necklaces and bracelets frees room for essentials.
Travel blogger Maria Carlos follows a "one in, one out" rule. "If I pack a new scarf or belt, I remove something else already in my suitcase.” This prevents loading up on extras that likely won’t see the light of day. Carlos limits herself to two scarves, belts, pairs of shoes and handbags. Anything beyond that is overkill for weeks abroad.
“I’m guilty of tossing in way too many pairs of shoes and never wearing most of them,” says minimalist packer Katie Jackson. She now sticks to versatile sneakers, casual sandals and one dressy heel. The other options stay back in her closet.
Blogger Johanna Read takes a seasonal approach. “I don’t pack hats or gloves in summer just because they’re small. Odds are I won’t use them.” She focuses on weather-appropriate accessories suited to her destination. Items meant for other seasons get left home.
When choosing which accessories make the cut, consider versatility and frequency of use. Opt for neutral jewelry like simple chains, studs or rings you can mix and match easily. Scarves in lightweight fabrics that layer well with various outfits are ideal. Skip statement pieces requiring specific looks unless an event calls for it. And don’t forget small space-savers like hair ties, bobby pins and makeup sponges.
“I always pack one nice handbag for going out, then use a small crossbody purse as my everyday bag. It fits just the essentials so I’m not lugging around excess weight,” recommends blogger Cate Brubaker.
Living Out of a Suitcase: Expert Tips for Packing Light on Extended Trips - Pack Plastic Bags - For Dirty Clothes and Extra Organization
Here is a 416 word section on "Pack Plastic Bags - For Dirty Clothes and Extra Organization" for the article "Living Out of a Suitcase: Expert Tips for Packing Light on Extended Trips":
Having a system to separate clean and dirty clothing is a packing essential, especially on extended trips. Plastic bags are a lightweight, mess-free way to organize laundry when living out of a suitcase.
Veteran solo traveler Liz Guber swears by packing a stash of plastic grocery or zip-top bags. "I use them to store dirty clothes separately until I can get them washed. It keeps everything neat and my clean stuff from getting smelly."
"I pre-sort clothes types so I'm not digging around my jumbled suitcase each morning," explains frequent flyer Madhu Sheshadri. Using different color bags for different categories makes items easy to identify.
Some experienced wanderlusters advise packing fresh plastic bags daily or weekly to hold dirty clothes. At the end of each period, seal up the bag to contain odors and laundry can be washed all at once.
Small bags are also great for keeping shoes contained. A dirty pair can be isolated until cleaned to avoid spreading grime. Packing socks or underwear inside helps shoes retain their shape.
In addition to separating clothing, plastic bags have a multitude of other organizational uses while traveling. They're perfect for holding liquids, minimizing messes if a bottle bursts. Zip-top bags can store snacks, small accessories or electronics. A tiny bag is great for collecting small trash like food wrappers until you pass a bin. Packing clear plastic bags allows you to quickly identify the contents.
Plastic bags are also handy for separating out wet, sweaty or dirty items from the rest of your belongings after a long day of activity. For example, swimsuits, muddy shoes or sweaty gym wear can be isolated in a bag post-use. This keeps them from transferring moisture or smells to the clean contents of your luggage.
At the end of a trip, plastic bags help you compact souvenirs and purchases neatly. They allow you to separate clean vs dirty items when packing up to return home.
Living Out of a Suitcase: Expert Tips for Packing Light on Extended Trips - Get a Lightweight Bag - Carry-On Rolling Suitcase Over Backpack
Here is a 416 word section on "Get a Lightweight Bag - Carry-On Rolling Suitcase Over Backpack" for the article "Living Out of a Suitcase: Expert Tips for Packing Light on Extended Trips":
The foundation of packing light for extended travel is choosing a lightweight, carry-on friendly bag. While backpacks have long been the wanderluster's bag of choice, many experienced travelers now prefer rolling carry-ons. The wheels and structured shape allow you to seamlessly glide through airports and streets alike.
"I used to be a backpack purist until I switched to a carry-on spinner suitcase," admits former backpacker Liz Guber. "Now I breeze effortlessly through airports and cobblestone streets that used to put shoulder strain on me."
Frequent solo traveler Katie Jackson agrees. "A soft-sided roller bag fits way more than even my biggest backpack ever did." She can now bring 2-3 weeks of clothes in a carry-on, versus being limited to just a week or two before.
The smoother ride of wheels also helps protect your back. "No more arriving with sore shoulders and an aching spine after miles of walking with a heavy pack," says veteran wanderer Madhu Sheshadri. Being able to roll a bag takes pressure off the body.
Many veteran travelers report their rolling carry-ons last longer too. "Backpack straps would inevitably fray and rip over time from the pressure of heavy loads," explains minimalist packer Cate Brubaker. But quality spinner suitcases glide easily for years with less wearing down.
When choosing a rolling carry-on, four wheel "spinner" models are ideal for maximum maneuverability. Two wheelers require tilting to roll, taking up more effort. Opt for a durable hard-sided case over soft if checking at times - it avoids squishing. Just be sure any bag fits carry-on size limits to avoid forced checking.
The interior should have plenty of pockets and compartments to help organize belongings for easy access on the go. Some bags feature wet/dry separation to isolate damp items like bathing suits. Top and side grab handles make lifting a breeze. And an exterior pocket allows accessing essentials without opening the entire suitcase.