Whether you’re off on a winter holiday or a business trip, you need to pack your bag carefully if you want to fit everything in. Your clothes, toiletries, electronic devices, that book you bought ages ago and hope to finally get around to reading….everything has to be stuffed into a small 55 x 35 x 25 suitcase with a maximum weight of 10kg. Thanks to low cost airlines, we all have to pay heed to what Marie Kondo says.
To roll or to fold: that is the question
Here are three methods that will help you maximise the space in your luggage…
Ranger roll packing—Get ready to roll!
Forget everything your granny taught you about how to fold clothes and start rolling! Yes, roll them up like sushi! Even trousers and jumpers. Rolling your clothes is the fastest way for those in a hurry, and the most efficient at maximising the space you have in your luggage. However, critics argue that unless you can master the military technique of ranger roll packing, you risk wrinkling your clothes.
This video explains the technique in a detailed way (ideal for beginners):
👉 Packing tip: even if you’re not a ranger rolling pro, this method is perfect to save time and get a tidier suitcase.
The KonMari method: vertical folding
Marie Kondo has widely publicised her KonMari folding technique which lets you maximise space and keep all of your clothes in sight. The basic principle is that every item of clothing should be folded into a nice little rectangle. To achieve good results, tuck in sticky out sleeves, then fold the garment in half and finally fold in 3 lengthwise (or 2 if the item is bulky). It may be a little less compact than the ranger-packing method, but vertical folding helps you to keep your clothes from getting crumpled.
Discover the manga version of this technique: cartoon by Yuko Uramoto.
👉 Storage tip: vertical storage helps you stop your clothes from getting crumpled, as often happens on a trip. In addition, by following the KonMari method, you make sure to only bring useful clothes in the first place, i. e. ones that bring you joy.
Bundle Packing…
Bundle Packing is the method recommended for those who need to max out their luggage space. It’s great for fitting in winter clothes: if you’re off to a cold country or on a ski trip, you’ll need long sleeves or warm clothes.
The technique consists of stacking the clothes with the sleeves and legs sticking out, then folding everything around one central item, such as a bunch of socks, a pair of shoes (pre-packed in a plastic bag) or even a toiletry bag.
We recommend you watch this video to understand the technique:
👉 Storage tip: bear in mind that you’ll have to unfold every item to find a particular piece of clothing. This won’t prove the best option if you want to leave your belongings in your suitcase throughout your stay.
Now you’re ready to select the method that suits you best (based on the type of trip, the time you have, and of course, your personal preferences). See more tips and tricks in our travel articles.