Keeping your luggage organised while travelling can often feel like a never-ending battle. No matter how carefully you pack at the start, by day two, it seems like everything is in a chaotic jumble. But over the years, we’ve picked up a few strategies that really help us stay organised and save time when we’re on the road(/in the air/on the decks). Here are some of our go-to tips:
Use Packing Cubes
These are a lifesaver. Packing cubes let you separate your clothes into categories (like tops, bottoms, or workout gear…yeah), so you can find what you need without having to rummage through your entire suitcase. You can even use smaller cubes for accessories or toiletries.
Roll, Don’t Fold
Rolling your clothes instead of folding them not only saves space but also reduces wrinkles. Plus, it makes it easier to see everything you packed at a glance, so you’re not digging through layers of clothing. Elliot’s mum taught him this.
Keep Essentials Accessible
Place the items you’ll need frequently, like your toiletries, charger, or a jacket, at the top of your bag – particularly if you’re doing a hand luggage only trip. This way, you won’t have to unpack everything just to grab one thing. A small, zippered / zipped pouch for these essentials can help keep them in one place.
Use Zippered Compartments for Electronics
If your suitcase has built-in compartments or a front pocket, use them to store your electronics—laptop, phone charger, headphones, etc. This keeps them easily accessible and prevents them from getting tangled with clothes. The only thing with this is that it can be a bit of a ‘target’ for pick-pockets or thieves, so be aware of your surroundings if you’re going this route.
Stick to a Packing List
It’s easy to overpack, which leads to disorganisation. A packing list can help you stay on track and ensure that everything has its place. The fewer items you pack, the less clutter you’ll have to manage. Since we met, Kirsty has gone from a large suitcase for a three day trip to hand luggage only!
Dirty Clothes Bag
Particularly for longer trips, it pays to bring a separate bag for dirty clothes. This keeps your fresh clothes from getting mixed up with items you’ve worn and makes laundry time a lot easier when you return home.
Use Compression Bags
If you’re traveling to a destination with fluctuating temperatures, compression bags are great for saving space. They help you pack bulky jackets or sweaters more efficiently, making room for other items. This was a great tip Kirsty picked up from her time living in Lapland, Finland, when a lot of sweaters and jumpers were a necessity!
By using a combination of these strategies, keeping your suitcase organised doesn’t have to be a constant struggle. Whether you prefer packing cubes, rolling clothes, or using separate compartments, the goal is to create a system that works for you and helps you keep your travel stress-free.
How do you stay organised while traveling? Do you have any favorite packing tips or tricks? Let us know—we’re always looking for new ideas!
