7 Clever Packing Tips to Fit More In Your Suitcase

Hard shell luggage may be all the rage right now, but if you’re the type that likes to bring everything, you might want to reconsider. Audrey Kohout, co-CEO of Luggage Forward, says you can actually fit more in a soft-sided bag, as it offers extra flexibility to different sized and shaped items. “Another perk of soft-sided bags is that they’re much more durable than hard-shelled cases, which tend to crack and break much more easily, so not only will you be able to fit more but your belongings will also be better protected.” An expandable suitcase is another great option, especially if you tend to buy a lot of stuff at your destination.

Packing a big sun hat for the beach or cute clutch to wear to a wedding? “You want to make sure no space is wasted when it comes to luggage so think about what you’re already including,” suggests Kohout. For example, you can “put all your socks inside your purse or stuff a rolled-up t-shirt inside each shoe.” Professional Organizer Wendy Trunz of Jane’s Addiction Organization loves packing small items like jewelry in plastic bags and placing them inside of shoes too.

As for hats, Hitha Palepu, author of How To Pack, recommends stuffing the inside of it with your undergarments and swimsuits. “Flip it over and place it inside the suitcase as your first item, and pack your other items on top and around it.”

When it comes to how to fold clothes most effectively, Kohout is a big believer in the roll method, but the key is to use it wisely. “It’s more of a roll and fold combo based on the fabric of the items you’re bringing,” she says. “Jeans, pants and anything stiff should still be folded flat as you normally would, but then all shirts, athletic wear and softer materials should be rolled as tightly as possible.”

One trick Palepu uses to maximize space is to roll full outfits tight using hair ties to secure them. “This is especially great for pajamas, workout clothes or matching sets.”

Seriously, they’re a game changer. By breaking your suitcase into smaller compartments, Kohout says you can tightly fold clothes to fit more and avoid an overflowing mess. “They also help keep your stuff organized so you know exactly where everything is. You can sort by type of clothing or even by each day of your trip to separate outfits.”

No packing cubes? No problem—plastic bags from around the house make a great substitute for smaller items. “Pro tip: make sure to squeeze all of the air out of the bags before adding them to your suitcase,” advises Kohout.

Packing your suitcase is a lot like Tetris. You want to make good use of every little nook and cranny. To this point, NY-based flight attendant Ricardo likes to pack his shoes in separate shoe bags so he can accommodate them better in multiple spaces—essentially wherever they fit best, which is easier when they’re not packed as a pair. He also fills the spaces between his bag’s handle first with either rolled t-shirts or my packing cube with underwear. “This way I make a good base for the rest of my chunkier items,” he says.

Wear your heaviest clothing (shoes included!) on the plane—even if you're leaving from a warm destination—to free up space in your suitcase or carry-on, recommends Abigail Schaffer, Trip Expert and Assistant Manager at EF Ultimate Break.

And remember to layer up. “The plane is always cold (and sometimes hot), but it’s better to be able to remove or add layers as needed,” he notes.