How to Pack a Suitcase Properly
SavannahxMon Jul 10 2023
Whether you love or hate it, packing is a necessary precursor to travel. Some people thrive on the organisational side of it, whilst others turn to manically throwing anything and everything into their luggage. If you want to make packing a more enjoyable experience, you’ll need to learn how to pack a suitcase properly. That’s where we come in!
In this blog, we will help you streamline the packing process of your large checked suitcase from start to finish.We will cover the things you should know before you start packing, how to maximise space when packing, and how to become a more organised packer. With the right suitcase, a few sets of packing cubes and a decent packing list, you’ll be golden.
Ready to change the way you pack? Let’s get into it.
What to know before you go
Before you begin packing, you should make sure you know exactly how long you are going away for, what type of climate you are heading into and any airline restrictions that are in place. You’ll also need to make sure you have the best suitcase for your needs, whether that be carry-on luggage, a medium checked suitcase or a large suitcase. We’ll cover all your carry-on luggage needs later but for now, let’s focus on our checked luggage.
Length of trip
Let’s start with the basics. To avoid over-packing, you’ll need to know exactly how many days or weeks you’ll be away. When taking this into account, you should also consider whether you’ll have access to a washing machine over the course of this time. If you do, then it will be easier to cut down on the amount of clothing you pack.
Airline restrictions
Before you pack, make sure you are familiar with your airline's restrictions and guidelines. There will be a list of requirements that you’ll need to abide by, with one of them being a weight limit. If you are unsure, make sure to contact your airline beforehand to avoid any unexpected surprises. There may also be some items that you can’t bring with you, so make sure to check what you can bring before you start packing.
Destination climate
Do your research before you go! Check the weather forecast for your destination and pack accordingly. If you are going to a warmer climate, it’ll be much easier to pack light. However, colder climates will require a bit more forethought. With bulkier jackets and pants, you’ll want to be as minimalistic as possible to avoid over-stuffing your suitcase and surpassing the airline’s weight limit.
Choosing the best suitcase for your needs
Choosing the appropriate suitcase is a key part of the pre-packing process. At Explorer, we have a range of different-sized checked suitcases that will do the trick. If you are going away for a week-long holiday to a tropical destination, a Medium Checked Suitcase will be plenty spacious enough. For longer trips or holidays to colder climates, consider a Large Checked Suitcase instead.
Best suitcase packing tips
There is an art to packing; if you are not careful, your suitcase may result in being overpacked and disorganised. In order to counteract this outcome, it is important to learn how to maximise space and pack in an organised fashion. Although this might sound like a bit of a yawn, it will be so worth it in the end!
Tips for maximising space when packing
1. Invest in packing cubes
We’ve put this as number one for a reason. Our Explorer packing cubes will change the way you pack forever, helping to keep your clothes compressed and therefore creating more usable space. Made from a breathable 210D polyester and featuring a mesh front panel, your clothes will remain nicely ventilated as your travel. This mesh panel also allows for easy identification of your items, which is a big bonus on the organisation front!
Roll don’t fold
The debate of rolling vs folding has been going on for a long time now and we are finally putting an end to it. If your aim is to maximise available space in your luggage, you can’t beat rolling. Not only does it allow you to fit more clothes in, but it also results in less wrinkly clothing when you arrive at your destination.
Fill in the gaps
If you are running out of space, don’t forget to fill in the gaps! For instance, if you are packing a pair of running shoes, make sure to stuff them with socks or other assorted items to utilise your available space. If you have used packing cubes and they don’t fill out your entire suitcase, this is another great opportunity to fill in the gaps with other belongings.
Try the 5 4 3 2 1 packing method
If you are a chronic over-packer, the 5 4 3 2 1 method might be your saving grace. This formula was designed for week-long trips, helping you cut down the amount of clothes you bring with you. It is totally customisable but as a general rule, this method suggests no more than 5 pairs of socks and underwear, four tops, three pants, two pairs of shoes and one hat.
Use travel containers
Leave your full-sized items behind when you are travelling and opt for travel-sized containers instead. In reality, you’ll only need a small amount of skincare products and body products for your trip. In addition to this, travel-sized containers are generally an airline requirement, with certain volumes of products being prohibited and classed as dangerous goods. So again, check beforehand to avoid getting caught out!
Cut down on shoes
As much fun as it is to change up your shoes to match your outfits, it isn’t an absolute necessity. Instead, pick one pair of shoes that are comfortable and go with everything. If you plan on doing scenic hikes, you may also need to include a pair of shoes for that.
Wear bulkier items to the airport
You may have heard this one before but we’ll say it again. Save precious space in your suitcase by wearing those bulky jackets, pants and boots rather than trying to stuff them into your luggage.
Tips for more organised packing
Make a packing list
We love a to-do list as much as the next person and packing is no exception! By making a list, you are far less likely to forget anything important. Seeing everything written down can help you to visualise exactly what you need and cull what you don’t. As you pack, simply tick each item off as you go.
- Pack in advance
We know how easy it is to leave packing to the last minute but, trust us, it is not worth it. By packing in advance, you can take your time to pack more thoughtfully. This prevents frantic and rushed choices from being made and allows you to organise your suitcase better.
- Pack for planned activities
To avoid forgetting important things, write out a list of your planned activities. For instance, are you planning on going snorkelling? Better make sure you’ve got a towel, swimwear and sunscreen. Going hiking? Don’t forget to pack your activewear, hat, travel backpack and hiking shoes!
- Create a packing cube system
We are the biggest advocates for packing cubes, not only for the ability to maximise space but also for their ability to keep your belongings organised. If you have our Explorer packing cubes in black, use your notes app to jot down what items are in each size. If you have some packing cubes in different colours, use a colour coding system for easy identification.
Use a toiletry bag
Keeping your toiletries together in a toiletry bag just makes sense. Simply grab your toiletry bag and head straight to the bathroom without having to rummage through your suitcase. Not only does it help keep everything in one place but it will also prevent any leakages from seeping into your other belongings.
Bring a laundry bag
A laundry bag will take up very little space in your luggage but will be a godsend when it comes to keeping dirty and clean clothes separate. It is also extremely lightweight so won’t weigh you down when going through baggage check-in.
Always leave extra space on the way there
We don’t know about you, but we are prone to doing a generous amount of shopping when on holiday. It is important to take this into account while you are packing, as you’ll want to leave a bit of spare space for your shopping on the way back.
Pack like a pro with Explorer Luggage
Packing should be exciting, not stressful. With a bit of structure in place, you’ll be able to enjoy the packing experience rather than dread it. Once you’ve established the basics like the length of your trip and the climate you are packing for, you should be able to determine the size of suitcase you’ll need. From there, you can go about implementing some of our packing tips to maximise space and stay organised as you pack. With the right suitcase, packing cubes and a little bit of forethought, you’ll be packing like a pro in no time!
If you are missing a few of these essentials, shop them on Explorer Luggage. We have a wide range of packing cube sets, as well as suitcases, duffle bags and travel accessories. If you have any queries, give us a bell at [email protected] and we’ll help you out. Safe and happy travels Explorers!