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How to Pack a Suitcase: Practical Tips for Perfect Packing
October 23, 2026
The rolling method
Roll each item of clothing tightly. It saves up to 30% of space and prevents wrinkles. It works for shirts, pants and dresses.
Packing cubes
Separate clothes into categories: tops, bottoms, underwear. You will find everything in seconds without turning the suitcase upside down. Combine them with pouches for toiletries.
The layering method
Heavy items at the bottom (shoes), clothes in the middle, light items on top. Fragile items in the center, protected on every side.
Space-saving tips
- Fill shoes with socks
- Roll belts inside shirt collars
- An empty laundry bag for dirty clothes on the way back
Frequently asked questions
Is it better to roll or fold clothes in a suitcase?
Rolling is much better for most types of clothing, because it squeezes out the air between them and saves space. However, for tailored items or stiff button-down shirts, folding flat is better to avoid distorting the collar and shoulders.
What is the advantage of packing cubes?
Packing cubes create drawers inside the suitcase. They let you compress clothes efficiently, stop them from shifting and wrinkling during the flight, and let you unpack at the hotel in under a minute simply by moving the cubes onto the closet shelves.
Where should heavy items go in a suitcase?
Heavy items such as shoes, books or toiletry bags should always go at the bottom of the suitcase, meaning the part closest to the wheels when the suitcase is standing. This keeps the suitcase from tipping over and keeps it stable while you pull it.
How do I stop liquids from leaking inside the suitcase?
The best way is to remove the cap of the shampoo or cream bottle, put a piece of plastic wrap over the opening, and screw the cap back on over it. Then keep all your liquid bottles in a waterproof toiletry bag.
How many clothes do I really need to pack for a week-long trip?
The professional rule of thumb is the 5-4-3-2-1 rule: 5 pairs of socks and underwear, 4 shirts, 3 pairs of pants or skirts, 2 pairs of shoes (one on you and one in the suitcase), and one hat or coat. This method prevents exhausting overpacking.
