8 Packing Hacks Every Traveler Should Know

Packing can be one of the most tedious and overwhelming tasks when it comes to travel. Between trying to predict weather forecasts, planning outfits, to abiding TSA’s strict liquid policies, packing can definitely suck the excitement out of embarking on a new travel adventure. Based on years of travel experience, from weekend getaways to month long escapes, I’ve learned these packing tips and tricks to help streamline your process. Here are my 8 packing hacks that I follow every time I pack for a trip, and you should be too.

8 PACKING HACKS EVERY TRAVELER SHOULD KNOW

1. Roll Don’t Fold-

Rolling your clothes instead of folding may be the best tip for minimizing wrinkles and maximizing luggage space. Do not understand this tip, it is a total game changer.

2. Pre-Plan Outfits –

Coming from a chronic overpacking, pre-planning your outfits and sticking to one color scheme really helps with eliminating unnecessary baggage. A trick that has particularly helped me is to take photos of the outfits I plan to wear throughout my trip, and then to pack them accordingly in packing cubes. This may sound time consuming, but in the long run, it’s really a time saver, and has helped me minimize to just carry on luggage on many occasions.

3. Packing Cubes –

Packing cubes are also referred to as compression bags for a reason. Not only do these help you organize and compartmentalize your outfits by destination or occasion, but they are great for fitting more in a limited amount of space. A pro travel tip is to pack an extra medium or large packing cube to use as your laundry bag. It both compresses and separates your dirty clothes.

4. Consolidate Toiletries & Makeup –

Taking care of your skin is extremely important, especially when dealing with dry airplanes and a change in climate. Though, packing all of your skincare routine essentials can really way down your bag. Take it from someone who packs loads of skincare and makeup products, and invest in a toiletries organizer bag to consolidate your products in one place with visible compartments. Also, be sure that all of your liquids follow the 100 ml (3.4 oz) limit to avoid parting with that expensive moisturizer you just bought at security.

5. Organize with Pill Holders –

Cheap pill holders,that you are found at your local drugstore, aren’t just for vitamins and medications. They also double as the perfect storage compartment for jewelry and beauty product. Simply put the needed amount of product in the container compartment and label. These are perfect for eye creams, serums, liquid highlighters, and stud earrings.

6. Expandable Carry On Bags –

If you’re like me when your travel, then your luggage seemingly becomes harder to zip closed as your trip goes on. Which is why I love expandable carry on bags like Baggallini’s Expandable Duffle Bag. This tote is my go to for any trip that I know shopping will be involved. Besides expanding almost double in size, my favorite features are the RFID anti-theft wristlet, and sleeve to securely slide the bag on your luggage handle.

7. Stuff Hats & Shoes –

Maximizing every nook and cranny of luggage space is key, which is why I utilize my hats and shoes to stuff smaller items into. Not only does using your socks and swimsuits as stuffing save space, but they also help to hold the shape of your hats and footwear.

8. Pack Multi-Purpose Items –

Take advantage of multi-purpose items is my favorite way to minimize. Two of my favorites are shea butter (a lip balm, moisturizer, and hand cream), white button downs (a swim cover up, layering piece, and tied crop top), and wrap sarong (beach sarong, coverup, and scarf).

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