Packing is often viewed as a hassle, but it doesn’t have to be. A few simple adjustments to the way you fold and pack your clothes will keep them neat and wrinkle-free while taking up less room in your luggage.
Shirts
Lay out T-shirts facedown on a flat surface. Fold the sleeves back, smooth out the wrinkles, and then—starting with the hem—roll it up.
For dress shirts, fasten all buttons and lay it out facedown on a flat surface. Fold back the sleeves. Fold up the bottom third of the shirt, and then fold the top of the shirt so that it overlaps the first fold. Smooth out wrinkles.
Pants
Fold jeans so that one leg covers the other. Lay it on a flat surface and smooth out wrinkles, and then roll it up from bottom to top.
With dress pants, fold one leg over the other, then spread on flat surface and smooth out wrinkles. Fold in half once—top to bottom—smooth out wrinkles, and then fold again.
Skirts and Dresses
Lay skirts and dresses on a flat surface and smooth out all the wrinkles. Fold lengthwise then fold up from the bottom. Fold up again if necessary.
Putting it all Together
After folding your clothes, don’t put them into your bag right away. Tightly pack socks and undergarments into your shoes, and then set them on the bottom of the bag. On top of that, lay down the heavier rolled items like jeans. The next layer should be the lighter rolled items like T-shirts. The final layer should consist of the folded items, so they are close to the top to be quickly unpacked and hung up. Any other items such as belts or extra socks should be used to fill in the holes and crannies in the case. Put your toiletry bag on top and close the suitcase. Zip it up, and you’re ready to go!
—Mara Kellogg