Vacations are relaxing, but packing for them? Not so much. Between decision fatigue, trying to fit everything in your suitcase, and doing all that last-minute laundry, it’s not an ideal way to kick off your time away. But knowing the right packing method—and a few pro-approved tips and tricks—can change everything. We asked a professional packer (yes, a professional packer) and luggage designers how they pack their own clothes, as well as their secrets for fitting everything in their suitcases for a less stressful and more stylish trip.
Lorenza Bellora, founder of My Style Bags, a Milan-based brand known for its high-quality, customizable travel and lifestyle accessories
Brianna Apple, content creator and professional packer specializing in helping families pack for camp, college, and boarding school
Niklas Oppermann, luggage designer and co-founder of Carl Friedrik
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Start With the Right Bag
According to luggage designer Lorenza Bellora, choosing the right bag is like choosing the right travel companion. “There’s no one-size-fits-all rule," she says. "It really depends on the kind of journey you’re about to take. For longer holidays or multi-activity trips, I go for a medium-to-large bag with inner compartments. But for a spontaneous getaway or a weekend escape, a structured duffel is always my go-to.”
On the other hand, content creator and professional packer Brianna Apple suggests assembling what you need to pack before choosing a bag. “Pull everything out onto the couch or wherever you pack (I always have a designated packing corner), and get everything finalized, so that everything you’re bringing is all in one spot," she says. "Once you see how much stuff you’re bringing, choose a suitcase accordingly. Bigger is not always better.”
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Plan Outfits Around Your Itinerary
Being specific and intentional about what you pack ensures you won’t forget anything. Apple says she starts by going through her itinerary, then pulling what she’s considering wearing based on her plans. “Once it’s all laid out, I build outfits around each day and put anything I’m not bringing back in my closet," she says. "I try to keep looks simple and rely on accessories to switch things up so I can rewear pieces and pack less.”
Still not sure if you should bring something? Luggage designer Niklas Oppermann explains there are only two categories of things you should bring on any trip: those that are versatile and those that are necessary. “If it doesn’t earn its place in the bag with versatility or necessity, it doesn’t come.”
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Pack Around Your Favorite Clothing and Accessories
If there’s something you're excited about wearing or have purchased for your trip, Apple recommends prioritizing outfits around those things. “If there are specific pieces you’re set on bringing, whether it’s a purse, a pair of shoes, or a certain top, build outfits around those first, and use those accessories to switch up other looks too," she says. "It’s all about stretching your staples and making them work multiple ways.”
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Plan From Day to Night
Apple tells me it’s best to start with daytime outfits. “Then repeat the process for night outfits, move on to pajamas, undergarments, and anything else you need to bring.”
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Place Heavier Items First
Don’t just throw everything in your luggage. According to Apple, heavier and bulkier items such as sweaters and jeans should go in first. “Then, fill in the rest like a puzzle," she suggests.
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Hide Your Socks
Socks might seem small, but they can take up valuable space. However, there is an easy but game-changing solution to this: “I always tuck socks into shoes to save space,” Apple says.
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Don’t Fold—Roll
Everyone has a finite amount of luggage space and probably more clothing than can fit in it. “Roll everything, even underwear," Apple suggests. "It saves way more space than you think and makes it easier to fit everything else.”
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Consider Packing Cubes
Whether you're going on a long or short trip, Oppermann advises staying organized with packing cubes. “Even when I’m only away for a night or two with just a backpack, I still use them," he says. "They’re brilliant for saving space, keeping things organized—like separating clean clothes from worn ones—and they minimize creasing when you unpack.”
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Avoid Overweight Luggage Fees
One of the easiest ways to avoid overweight luggage charges is to, you guessed it, weigh your luggage beforehand. You can use a regular scale you have at home, but then you might end up with an overweight bag on your return flight. So, investing in a portable luggage scale is a smart idea. They're usually inexpensive and take up less space than a candy bar.
Apple recommends putting heavier items like shoes, hair tools, and handbags in your carry-on because it will free up more room in your suitcase. “I also use the purses I’m bringing to store small things like jewelry and sunglasses,” she says.
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Shake Your Bag Down for More Space
Apple’s trick for fitting every last thing into your suitcase is brilliant. “Zip the suitcase shut, then stand it up and gently bang or shake the bottom against the floor to shift everything downward," she says. "Do the same with the side of the suitcase, [and] you’ll be shocked how much space opens up at the top!”
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Use a Garment Bag for More Formal Items
If you're traveling for business or a formal event, Bellora suggests using a garment bag to make sure your clothing stays unwrinkled and on a hanger. “It keeps clothes perfectly pressed on their hanger, ready to wear upon arrival," she says.
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Pack Before You Shop
“People love to shop before vacations (who doesn’t?), but that’s usually what leads to overpacking,” Apple says. “I always suggest fully packing first, as if you’re not allowed to buy anything, so you can see what you actually have. Then, if you still need something, buy with intention instead of impulse. It’s also a great way to stay on budget!”
