One of the biggest hurdles when planning a trip abroad is trying to fit all your belongings into the limited luggage allowance provided by airlines. If you’re aiming to travel light, sticking to cabin bag restrictions can be a real headache.
But there’s one simple trick that could free up some much-needed space in your suitcase. A popular method for saving space is rolling your clothes, but another technique might prove even more effective. The KonMari folding method, popularised by Marie Kondo, involves folding your garments into rectangles that stand upright next to each other in your suitcase, maximising space.
Here’s how to do it:
- To utilise this method, take your item of clothing and fold one side to the middle, then the other side over it, creating a rectangle.
- Then, fold it in half lengthways.
- From here, fold it into thirds, until it’s a small rectangle that can be slotted in alongside other items.
Another genius way to save space is to use a vacuum sealer. Simply place your clothes inside the bag, seal it and use a vacuum cleaner to remove the air. The result is perfectly airtight packages that take up minimal space in your suitcase.
It’s also advisable to leave behind bulky toiletries like shampoo and body wash as most hotels supply these at no extra cost. If you’re going on a lengthy trip abroad, consider purchasing these items upon arrival to save suitcase space.
Alternatively, many hotels are happy to accept online deliveries prior to your stay, allowing you to order bathroom essentials to arrive before you do. It’s a straightforward way to travel lighter and avoid overpacking products you may not even use.
Investing in jewellery and cable organisers is also a smart move. These will keep your items safe and untangled, preventing you from having to dig through your suitcase to find what you need.
If you’re looking for another genius way to pack your suitcase, then one trick shared by a travel expert could come in very handy.
Annabelle Kate, who spent three years travelling the world, said ‘the best way’ to fit everything in your case is to lay all of your clothes flat.
In a now-viral TikTok video, she said: “By keeping everything flat, you can fit so much more in your case. And of course, your clothes don’t get creased or wrinkled.”
Using this method, she was able to pack a range of outfits into a standard-size suitcase, including formalwear, beachwear, swimwear, and more.