If you've ever returned from vacation wondering why you packed six pairs of shoes but wore the same two every day, you're in good company. Years of traveling means we've packed for everything from weekend getaways to multi-week cruises, and along the way we've learned a few lessons, often the hard way.
Here are five simple packing tips that can save space, reduce stress, and make life a little easier once you arrive.
Angie Farmer Wenck, Voyagers Collective Co-Founder and CEO, and her two boys with their luggage for the family’s 2025 Alaskan cruise aboard the Silversea Nova.
1. Lay everything out, then put half of it back
It's the oldest packing advice in the book because it works.
Most travelers pack for every possible scenario, then end up wearing the same favorite outfits on repeat. Before your suitcase closes, take one more look and ask yourself: "Will I really wear this?" The answer is usually no.
2. Shoes are the real suitcase villains
Clothing gets blamed for overpacking, but shoes are usually the culprit.
Try limiting yourself to three pairs: one for walking, one for evenings, and one that's specific to your destination or activities. That one simple change can free up a surprising amount of space.
3. Roll, don’t fold
We're not sure who first discovered this trick, but they deserve an award.
Rolling clothes not only saves space, it also helps reduce wrinkles and makes it easier to see everything in your suitcase without creating a giant pile on day two of your trip.
4. Pack a “first day” outfit in your carry-on
Even when everything goes right, you'll be glad you did.
If your luggage takes an unexpected detour, you'll have a fresh outfit, basic toiletries, medications, and anything else you need to comfortably get through the first day. Think of it as packing for your future self.
5. Leave a little empty space
This sounds completely backward until you've tried to fit souvenirs, wine, local snacks, or that "I wasn't planning to buy it, but here we are" purchase into an already stuffed suitcase.
A little extra room going out means a much easier trip home.
One final thought
The best packing strategy isn't fitting the most into your suitcase. It's bringing the things you'll actually use and leaving room for the experiences you'll bring back.
Your shoulders, your luggage scale, and the person helping lift your bag into the overhead bin will thank you.