Packing a suitcase correctly has frustrated many travelers! But it’s not too complicated if you know the tips. The goal, as always, is to maximize space and avoid a suitcase full of wrinkled and useless clothes. Fortunately there are several ways to achieve this. This article discusses the stack method.
1) Calculate in advance how much and what type of clothing you will need for your trip. Clearly, a week’s break in the city requires more than a weekend in the country. Ask yourself: What does the weather report say? Will you have laundry facilities where you are going? Needless to say, you won’t need hiking boots for a beach vacation or a suit at camp!
2) Pack only small toiletries if possible. Be sure to seal them in plastic bags to protect against spills. If you really need larger bottles or packages, at least make sure they’re in a practical shape: flat rather than round or irregular. Choose bottles with screw caps or secure caps that won’t pop open.
3) Before you start packing, make a list. Then narrow this list down by 10% or so. It helps if you determine your outfits beforehand, so you know if all the items are really necessary. Once you’re sure you’re not taking too many unnecessary things, you’re ready to pack.
The stack method
1. Start with shirts, t-shirts and tops. Stack them all on top of each other without folding them. Make sure the ones that wrinkle most easily are on the bottom.
2. Now fold all the sleeves together.
3. Fold the shirts in half. You should end up with a roughly rectangular shape. Because they are in a large package, their blouses are more resistant to wrinkles and the shape means they fit nicely in your suitcase.
4. Fold the pants and jeans individually in half and stack them back in wrinkle order!
5. Hold this stack in the middle as you did with the shirts and place the rectangle of your pants in the suitcase next to the stack of shirts.
6. If you have skirts and dresses, place them in the suitcase on top of your two rectangles. Tuck the ends around the stacks to save space.
7. Stuff your shoes with underwear and socks and place them in the holes in your suitcase.
8. Do the same with toiletries and any other possessions, but if possible, keep them toward the center to avoid excessive bumps and possible spills.