Are you one of those people who absolutely dreads packing for a trip? Is it tough for you to fit everything neatly into your suitcase? Do you struggle with keeping things organized while traveling? Read about my practical tips on how to pack the perfect suitcase.

Tip #1: Invest in a premium rolling suitcase

I am obsessed with my Away suitcases. I have the Bigger Carry On, Medium, and Large sizes. They are lightweight, stylish, and durable. Away has a 100 day trial offer, free returns, and lifetime warranty, so it’s worth the investment. Specific features that I love include the 360 degree rotating wheels, a compression pad inside which somehow always creates more free space, and a TSA approved lock. Get 20% off your first suitcase by clicking here.

Tip #2: Create a packing list

Start a packing list well ahead of your trip. I create a Google Doc or Apple Note that I can access right from my phone or computer. When I think of something that I want to bring, I can easily add it to the list while on the go.

Tip #3: Plan your outfits & pick versatile staples

It might seem extra, but planning out outfits in your head really helps maximize luggage capacity. Try to be a minimalist and only bring clothes that you definitely know you’ll wear. Pack versatile staples that you can easily mix and match. And do not bring a ton of shoes! A trick that helps me - I take a look at all of the clothes that I’ve laid out for a trip & challenge myself to remove a few pieces. This frees up more space in your suitcase & gives you an excuse to buy new clothes on your trip ;)

Tip #4 - Roll clothes & store in bags or packing cubes

I put tanks and tees in one bag, shorts and pants in another, dresses and skirts in another, and so on. I love these mesh Laundress bags, even more than traditional packing cubes. I can see through them, so I know what’s in there. I also like how they are flexible, so I can mold them into my suitcase.

For items like socks, bathing suits, bras, and underwear that are too small to roll, I pack them in a bag that I have lying around. Usually it’s a Lululemon or Addison Bay shopping bag from a recent purchase.

Tip #5: Organize loose items into categorized bags

Follow the same mindset as your clothes and organize other loose items into categorized bags. I pack my makeup and skincare products in a makeup bag, hair products in a toiletry case, and fill another one with electronics and power cords etc.

Tip #6: Pack shoes in a drawstring bag

Pack your shoes in a separate bag to keep dirt away from everything else. I use my MZ Wallace drawstring dust bag, since I like to wash and reuse it, but you could honestly just use a trash bag. Place your shoe bag on the bottom of your suitcase, so when it’s standing, the shoe bag will be on the bottom and it won’t be too top heavy.

Tip #7: Allocate an extra bag for dirty clothes

The Away suitcases come with a waterproof nylon laundry bag, which is very handy.

Tip #8: Have a place for everything in your suitcase

Put your clothes on the compression side. Fill the opposite side with everything else, like your shoe bag, toiletry bags, purses, hair tools, travel steamer, etc. Put small items like your hair brush, belts, and accessories in the zipper compartment.

Tip #9: Wear bulky items on the plane

Wear your heavy boots and bulky jackets on the plane to maximize space in your suitcase. Planes are usually chilly anyway, so I do not mind the extra warmth.

Tip #10: Keep valuable items in your carry on

Do not pack any valuable items in your checked suitcase. Keep things like a camera, jewelry, passport/travel documents, electronics, and medicine in your carry on. Use the same principles when packing your carry on - use small bags & pouches to keep everything organized and in place.

The Best Brands for Travel Gear

Away: I have the Bigger Carry On, Medium, and Large suitcases.
MZ Wallace: favorites include the Large Metro Tote, Large Sutton, Metro Backpack Deluxe, & Travel Jim
Naghedi: obsessed with these chic woven totes & pouches
Laundress: mesh laundry bags to keep my clothes organized
Dagne Dover: practical items like tech pouches & fun neoprene backpacks, totes, & toiletry bags
Stoney Clover Lane: colorful & customizable travel accessories; love my jewelry roll
Paravel: I’m eyeing up the vanity case and handy fold up backpacks & totes.
Lululemon: I love my fanny pack for airport travel days. Their backpacks, totes, and clothes are incredible too.
Baboon to the Moon: ultra funky & durable duffel bags
Patagonia & The North Face: classics that will last throughout the years
The Daily Edited: monogram travel cases and leather goods