Tips for the Most Efficient Packing

Suitcase packing tips are a dime a dozen, but for those who absolutely loathe the thought of tugging out luggage and folding or rolling clothes into tight spaces, here are a few tips for packing quickly and efficiently.

Use space wisely. When dealing with limited space, find the often-overlooked storage spots, such as inside pairs of shoes. Roll up socks or underwear and fold them into your shoes for an easy way to put together an outfit once in your destination.

Purchase packing cubes. While some packers may still rely on plastic bags to divide up their clothes, or simply toss everything into the black hole of a suitcase, investing in packing cubes can help you stay organized and maximize space. The soft-fabric cubes typically feature mesh to allow clothes to breathe and stay fresh. Rolling clothes and placing them in cubes also helps prevent wrinkles, as does rolling crisp collared shirts around the outside of the cubes once they are filled with clothes.

Use straws to transport jewelry. Packing jewelry is easy, but unpacking and untangling necklaces, rings and earrings can be a nightmare. Slide necklaces into drinking straws and clasp them closed to keep necklaces separate and to save time otherwise spent detangling.

Pack with a pattern. Pack shoes first, clothes second and toiletries last. This will help you gauge what you need and might not need, and most likely convince you you really don’t need more than two pairs of shoes.