10 Easy Tips To Packing A Suitcase Efficiently & Effectively for Two Weeks
Do you love to travel but hate the thought of packing? The struggle is real, but these tips for packing a suitcase efficiently will help you tame the beast of packing in no time and you’ll be on your way!
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no cost to you.
In my former life I was the chronic overpacked. I was the girl who took two suitcases for a weekend getaway, and one suitcase held very little clothing, at least 4 books (this was before eReaders became popular), and tons of hair tools. I never wore half of what I had packed. Figuring out what is essential to pack in your carryon is the first thing to focus on.
Packing efficiently is key when it comes to travel. Here are some tips to help you conquer the packing challenge:
- Start by making a list of essentials and stic to it.
Choose versatile clothing items that can be mixed and matched.
Roll your clothes instead of folding them to maximize space.
Utilize the empty spaces within your shoes to pack smaller items.
Consider investing in travel-sized toiletries to save space and weight.
Remember, efficient packing not only saves you time and stress but also allows for more freedom and convenience during your travels.
Learning to Pack Lean – Trial by Fire Packing
Some people can learn through gentle leading and teaching, and some have to learn the hard way, and then a few have to learn things in the “trial by fire” method. I fell into the last category when it came to packing – trial by fire. Let’s rewind the clock a bit, back to 2013. Jim and I lived in a big, beautiful 4000 square foot home in Virginia. We entertained a lot for business and pleasure. We entertained so much, that I had become a really good event planner, able to pull a dinner party together with about four hours notice, which often happened when Jim would have a business meeting up in DC and then on the way home call me and say, “some of guys from the meeting today want to come down for the weekend. Can you put a dinner together tonight? They’ll go golfing tomorrow, but figure out something for dinner too. We’ll be there in about 3 1/2 hours.” And I did pull the entire weekend together, including making beds and getting the rooms ready.
And then….we decided that we wanted to downsize. Not smaller downsize, but tiny downsize, as in selling our house and moving full time onto our 47′ sailing catamaran! That my friends, is like moving into a tiny house but smaller. So, we listed our house, and began to pack. Only this time, I couldn’t keep all my clothes on the boat; I was FORCED to go through them all, and decide which pieces I would keep in a temperature controlled storage unit, which pieces I would give away, and which pieces would go on the boat. Now granted, the boat did have lots storage, but we had to have my clothes, Jim’s clothes, laundry supplies, wine (don’t laugh – that is a necessity!) pots, pans, dishes, and of course tools.
I had lots of clothes and lots of shoes (probably at least 100 pair!), so this was a massive undertaking. And that is how I came to create my unique packing system, that has been honed by an additional 8 more moves. And I use that same system today when I pack for pleasure travel.
This endeavor led to my creating lists….so many lists! But as those lists became sheets of marked through lists, I got a light bulb moment, and voilá I made a master travel packing list, that I use over and over again. This travel packing list has taken me on countless boating adventures through the Bahamas, to Spain, to Florida, to Texas, Alabama, Tennessee, Kentucky, Barbados, Jamaica….I’ve lost track of how many times I’ve used my travel list!
The more I sorted and packed the more I fell in love with the thought of downsizing. I fully embraced the sorting into three piles – keep, give away, throw away. My soul felt lighter at the thought of blessing someone else with some of my treasures. Today that chronic overpacker has been reformed into a gal who lives by packing tips and lists, always up for a travel adventure. And those packing cubes I mentioned? I now have two sets of them, and don’t think I could live without them!
So grab a cup of coffee and I’ll share my packing tips and secrets! It is all about the packing process when you are trying to maximize space, especially when you have carry on size restrictions. When you are done reading how to pack a suitcase packing tips, be sure to print the packing list checklist to make your suitcase packing that much easier.
Packing Tips To Pack Efficiently
Packing for Warm, Tropical Climates
For a two week trip to a warm climate, like Mexico, I typically pack 4 short dresses, 1 or 2 maxi dresses, 2 pair of capris, 2 pair of shorts or skorts, 2 lightweight tunic tops, 3 t-shirts, 2 bathing suits, a large scarf that can double as a shawl and a sarong to cover my bathing suit and a jacket or sweater I can wear on the plane if it is chilly. Shoes are easy – a dressy pair of sandals (if needed), as well as a pair of day-to-night sandals, and light-weight tennis shoes, with socks tucked in. A good pair of walking shoes are always essential.
Warm Or Tropical Weather
- 4 Short Dresses
- 1 or 2 Maxi Dresses
- 2 Pair of Capris
- 2 pair of Shorts or Skorts
- 2 lightweight Tunic Tops
- 3 t-shirts
- 2 Bathing Suits
- 1 Large Scarf or Sweater
- Dress Shoes/Sandals/light-weight tennis shoes
When I pack my accessories, I carry a large tote bag that can double as a beach bag, and toss in a small cross-body purse that doubles as a wallet, a pair of sunglasses, my reading glasses, a statement necklace, 2 cuff bracelets and 2 pair of earrings along with my cosmetics in a toiletry bag.
Accessories
- Large tote bag
- cross-body purse that doubles as wallet
- sunglasses
- reading glasses
- statement necklace
- 2cuff bracelets
- 2 earrings
- cosmetics in toiletry bag
If you are planning a trip to Disney, you will want to include the above essentials and a portable battery charger, your magic bands, a backpack for navigating the parks, water bottles, fans with water, rain ponchos and a hat.
Disney Packing
- Portable Battery Charger
- Magic Bands
- Backpack For Navigating the Parks
- Sunscreen
- Hats
- Water bottles
- Fans with water
- Rain Poncho
Packing for Cold Winter Climates
For a trip to a colder climate, I typically pack 4 pairs of thermal leggings, 2 medium weight tunic tops, 1 medium weight longer length jacket to layer, 3 tank tops, 2 sweaters, and three pairs of jeans (I wear one pair on the plane). For shoes, flat, comfortable, knee-high boots in suede that can be folded in thirds and packed on the bottom of your suitcase (along with 2 pair of knee-high hosiery socks tucked in the folds), light-weight tennis shoes and a pair of neutral-colored flats that I wear on the plane, along with an all-weather lined raincoat.
Packing For Cold Winter Climates
- 4 pair of thermal leggings
- 2 medium weight tunic tops
- 1 medium weight longer length jacket to layer
- 3 tank tops
- 2 sweaters
- 3 pairs of jeans (1 pair on the plane)
- Shoes – flat, comfortable, knee-high boots in suede
- knee-high hosiery socks tucked in the folds
- light weight tennis shoes and flats
- all-weather lined rain coat
My accessories remain the same as for warm weather climates and are placed in a large tote bag along with my cosmetics, and a cross-body purse.
Top Packing Tips & Secrets
Step #1
- I begin my packing by reviewing where we are going. Is it going to be warm? Is it going to be cold? Or will it be warm during the day and chilly at night? Once I have done a weather check, then I can begin the process of choosing my clothing. I usually lay ALL of the possibilities out on the bed. Do I want to have a carry on bag? Do I want to have checked bags? This is the first step in determining how I am going to pack a suitcase.
- The size of your carry on luggage matters as well as the weight of your checked bag. When you are planning your travels, remember that you want to pack light so your checked bag doesn’t cost you more. Carry on bags are usually included in the cost of your flight, but you still need to keep them under a certain weight and size.
- You may want to consider using a duffel bag for your carry on bag. You see a lot of frequent travelers carrying a duffle bag as their carry on bag.
- Another tip for your carry on bag, is to add a dryer sheet to keep your clothes smelling fresh and clean during your travels.
Step #2
- Step two is to decide on a color “theme” to ensure I will not overpack. If I am confident that I will be traveling for less than 5 hours I can choose clothes that may wrinkle, but don’t have time to let those wrinkles “set in” (I hate to iron, and I refuse to iron on vacation!). Choosing wrinkle free clothes is always my preference for trips longer than a few hours.
Step #3
- The third step is to begin to put outfits together for each day, or each activity. After this step, I usually have only decided to take about half of what I originally pulled out of my closet. So I now put away those clothes that I have decided NOT to take.
- Then, the rest is fairly easy. I gather my undergarments together and add them to the stack of items to be packed. Then, I gather a swimsuit or three (depending on the locale and mode of transportation) and add these to the stack to be packed.
- And finally, it’s time for footwear. I always take a pair of light-weight tennis shoes for fitness and walking/hiking. If the occasion calls for dressier clothes I will also take a pair of dressy flat sandals. If not, I will put in a pair of walking sandals and a pair of sandals that can be worn day to night.
Step #4
- Step four is the actual packing stage. To even out the bottom of the suitcase, shoes are wrapped in grocery bags (you can later reuse these for dirty laundry, or damp swimsuits). Then it is on to pants, shorts, and skorts. These are laid out, and then rolled, bottom to top. Roll your pants and put into my suitcase. Next, are dresses. They are rolled and put into the suitcase (placed next to and on top of the previous layer). Following the dresses are tops; rolled and placed on top of dresses. On top of the dresses (unless your suitcase has a zippered compartment) place your undergarments (and bathing suit). If you have dress clothing – suits, fancy dresses, etc, place these in an old dry-cleaning bag (or garbage bag) and place on top.
- Cosmetics are all travel size. I place a small square of saran wrap over my bottles and then cap the bottles to prevent spills. Then, all of my liquids are placed in a quart size bag for TSA. When cleared through TSA, the bag will be tossed in my tote bag. All of my makeup is in powder form, so no need to separate it for TSA.
There you have it – the top packing tips that keep me on track and organized when traveling! For the travel gear that we use and packing resources, click here.
- 14 Best Things to Do in Wilmington, NC and Where to Stay
- 3 Romantic North Carolina Mountain Getaways
- Romantic Beach Getaways
- Easy Holiday Entertaining Ideas
- Wine and Cheese Pairing
Which of these packing tips, tricks and essentials did you find most helpful? Do you have any need-to-know packing tips you’d like to share? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below!
Hi Betsy Hill: Thank you for The packing Tips and Tricks. Reading this is so timely and I am going on to the UK in about 8 days. I will definately follow your instructions on packing my suitcase.
Thank you
Veronica
Love it! Have a ball!!
How was your trip Veroinica?
I’m wanting to learn a more minimalistic way of packing. When I travel I end up packing way too much. I think I will need these items , and I return home with more clothes that I didn’t wear than the ones I did. I need help, would love to have a copy of your packing list when available. Thank you so much!
Hi Brenda, I am getting ready to slip away for a food & wine festival – may I respond to this question next week?
So I tried this and failed miserably. I pulled out your list of items and tried to fit in one suitcase along with charging cords, toiletries, underclothes and nightly. Some are of which are not mentioned in your list. I just could not fit it all in one suitcase with the shoes outlined. Now, I have to admit that my suitcase is a carry on because who wants to pay the airlines to find out your luggage went somewhere else.
I think most people try to do carry on these days because of the uncertainty and fees with the airlines getting your bags to its destination.
I removed half of the clothing and one pair of suggested shoes. I think a good pair of walking sandals will replace dress shoes. I wear runners onto the plane so I only need to pack one lightweight pair of sandals. I found that removing half worked but even then barely because of toiletries. I decided to only bring toothbrush, brush & comb, mascara, brow pencil and cc cream. The rest I can buy at my destination.
I also carry some packable items in my purse to save suitcase room.
You must be bringing a larger suitcase than I am and paying to stow on the plane rather than having a carry on. I appreciate the suggestions. Thank you for posting. It gave me the incentive to practice for my upcoming trip.
Hi Jackie, I pack with packing cubes (compression style) in a 21″ carry on. I also have a “personal item” which is where my electronics, cords, skincare & cosmetics go, as well as a small cross body purse, travel docs, and meds. All of these items are here (copy and paste in a new window): https://www.amazon.com/shop/betsihill/list/2QTOSQB1ZW833?ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ons_list_d I promise you it CAN be done, but compression cubes are KEY, and I use the smallest one in my personal item, and it has ALL my cosmetics and skincare. Now, anything like jackets, coats, etc I would need a bigger bag. But it can and will fit.
Hi Brenda, I’ve just gotten home, and I had not forgotten you. Here is the link to my resources page where you can find my packing lists. If you are wanting a more specific packing list I can help with that ~ email me the details ~ betsi@betsiworld.com
Hi Brenda, I’m finally in one place long enough and with enough wifi to answer! Here is the link to my packing list: https://BetsiWorld.com/travel/travel-resources-betsi-hill-travel/. If you need something more specific, let me know, and we can find a time to chat virtually. Also, here are my absolute favorites – including packing essentials: https://BetsiWorld.com/shop-betsis-favorites/. Let me know if you would like a one on one consultation ~ I do this for lots of people who need assistance planning trip packing.
Where can you buy packing cubes? I just missed a sale on the Today show/?
Hi Susan! So I have transitioned to COMPRESSION packing cubes and here is a link to the ones I personally use and LOVE – https://amzn.to/3WuOC39. Please do feel free to contact me with any other questions!
I have a few packing cubes, received as gifts, but I mostly use ziplock bags of various sizes. I always take a few extra ziplock bags – sandwich size and quart. Last trip I used one as an ice bag for sore knee.
I have used those as well and I do keep one or two in my suitcase for wet bathing suits. However, the packing cubes keep me more organized, and I don’t have to sort through things finding what I want – I put 3-5 entire outfits in a packing cube, and unless it is something that has to be hung, I literally toss the packing cube into a drawer, unzip it and just take out the outfits. So easy, and space-saving. The ziplock bags can do the same thing, but then they can tear, and you cannot fit as much in them.
Hi Susan – here is where I have all of my packing favorites: https://www.amazon.com/shop/betsihill/list/2QTOSQB1ZW833?ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ons_list_d
I’m heading to Southern Italy (Puglia, Sicily and Sardinia) for a month during mid September to mid October. I can only take one bag plus a carry on. The trip includes 4 and 5 star hotels and two Michelin dinners. Any tips on packing for this varied trip will help. Thank you!
I would take mix and match – tops that could be worn with pants and with skirts. I would also include a little black dress that you could add stunning jewelry, a light wrap, comfortable but dressy flats or a pair of block heels, and a dressy bag/clutch big enough to hold your phone, credit cards, and a bit of cash.
I am so jealous of this trip – on our bucket list! I’d love to follow along – feel free to message me on any of the social platforms – but I hang out a lot of instagram!
I’ve been to Italy three times all three times. We were pretty much casual the whole trip. Dinners were business casual. Be prepared for rainy and hot weather as it changes periodically.
Hi Elaine, I think you are spot on. I found myself in cardigans and in sleeveless while we were there….and steamy hot!
Hi Cheryl! I would definitely dress for seasonal change. Because you have two seriously upscale dinners, definitely take a classic little black dress and dressy shoes – either heels or flats. I would take a wrap if needed to wear with the dress. Italians tend to dress in a more classic style, and most likely you’ll be able to send your laundry out. Pack a couple of pairs of nice slacks (black/blue/tan are my suggestions) with some button down tops – these can easily be dressed up or down. Throw in a couple of nice skirts, and you have everything you need. Be sure your tops will go with all of your skirts and slacks. Jewelry – nothing expensive! My suggestions here would include a chunky bracelet – maybe chain link style; a stunning statement necklace or pearls ( pearls go with anything!) and either pearl type earrings or even a pair of swarkowski crystal style earrings. Use packing cubes – you’ll be surprised how much you can fit in them – you’ll want compression cubes. Take a comfy pair of walking shoes – wear those on the plane.
A printable list would be great. Packing for river cruise and o to Paris in May for total 19 days. Need carry on only. With weather possibly changing I need help.
This has been a great blog.
Thank you!
Hi Anita,
Thank you so much for the kind words! I have a couple of ideas – every river cruise has the ability to do laundry, and may even run specials. So, I would definitely take the following type of things – a little black dress, comfortable but cute shoes – these you can dress up or down, with accessories. Take a wrap that you can wear with the dress. I like wearing dresses when I travel because I get a lot of wear out of them, and they look super cute with walking sandals or white tennis shoes. Take 4-5 pair of pants/crops, neutral colors, 5 tops that can be worn interchangeable, 2 neutral skirts that can be worn with those same tops, and 2-3 pair of PJs. I would find a wash & fold laundry in Paris if needed. I am in the process of creating a printable packing list…may I email it to you? Also if you are one of my email subscribers I do send things like the packing list to them….
Betsi, how would you pack for a 14 day Transatlantic Cruise in April from Ft. Lauderdale to Amsterdam? The temperatures will surely be different from the start to the end. We will spend 2 days in Amsterdam. I didn’t see anything in your blog here that would help with varying temperatures.
Let me first say Congratulations on the transatlantic cruise! Those are some of my favorite cruises!
Now to the meat of your question. I would pack with layers in mind. Depending on when you are leaving, I would at the very least carry several pair of jeans or long pants along with a light weight sweater and a heavier cardigan. That should work well for Spring and early fall. If this is a summer cruise you should be fine in crop pants, a knee length dress, or shorts,and a selection of short sleeve tops. But always pack a lightweight jacket or windbreaker.
Great tips But quantity is my problem
For example: on a 2week Caribbean cruise How many undergarments? I want to take 14 pairs and 5 bras I know it seems excessive but I also don’t want to waste a day looking for a washer and dryer that are not being used Any ideas?
Hi Paula,
I feel the pain here, and can relate! I don’t think the undergarments are excessive, however, I don’t think you will need 5 bras. You will spend time by the pool, and the Caribbean is warm almost all year round. For a 2 week Caribbean cruise I’ll pack 1 extra bra, and 2 bandeau bras; 3 pair of PJs, 3 crops/shorts & tops that I can mix & match them with for different looks; 2 shorts; 1 coverup; 2 swim suits; 2-3 sundresses; and 2 casual dresses I can dress up for dinner or wear during the day if I want. Hope this makes sense! In essence I have enough for the entire cruise, and bank on the fact that I’ll change twice a day, not counting for pool time.
I do love using packing cubes by category. It saves space and organizes things for me to enable me to easily locate what I need at destination. You can also pack entire outfits in cubes if you prefer that.
Packing cubes are great! On shorter trips I also packing entire outfits / days in different cubes!
Great tips! I love how you have wardrobe suggestions for the different types of trips.
I am so glad it is helpful! Let me know if you have any additional suggestions
I travel with only my carry on . I pack 13 items and here they are 1. Convertible shorts(white in co!or) convert to Capri’s. 2.white linen pants,3. T-shirt,4.silk or linen long sleeved blouse ( that can be used as a cover up)5.maxi dress,6.short dress,7.bathing suit,8.tote,Sun Glasses,flip flops.9.bras,panties.10.Sunscreen. I wear my brimmed Hat and sun glasses as well as comfortable sandals and another maxi dress and pashmia on the plane. I pack these items in my tote I have a cross body RFID purse for my passport and ticketas well as cc and cash.
Awesome ~ that is impressive capsule packing! I can pack with less or with more, depends on where we are heading, and how long we are traveling. The mode of transportation also dictates a bit as well.
You mentioned how packing cubes are essential. But you never mentioned using them or how you, in particular, use them.
I, as well as a lot of people, have health issues requiring quite a few medications and supplements each day. For my daily medications, I use little baggies like for beading supplies. I mark them am or pm. For OTC items I use a daily pill sorter and mark the slots. I use one of those also for jewelry.
So funny you asked! I use packing cubes for lots of things. I pack my lingerie in them, cosmetics, masks (our new normal!), medicines, socks, shoes (flats, sandals, & flip flops). For jewelry, I have a small craft box with slots that I slide into my backpack.
Great tips
Great article.
Would love it if you made your packing lists printable!
Hi! Thanks for your feedback! That is actually a great idea, and I will begin working on that, and making the list into a printable. Thanks for the suggestion – I appreciate you!
Thanks for the tips!Having ADHD my suitcases seem to keep increasing in numbers as I banter back and forth about what & how to pack only to succumb to “take ALL of it” out of frustration!
You know I can relate to this! It was out of necessity that I learned to leave stuff behind. But now, I don’t think twice. If it doesn’t fit in the carryon it does not go. Exceptions of course for longer trips, or cold weather trips, but carryon only is my norm.
I like this post. Your ideas are useful to make a trip easier. These tips are really helpful for travelers. Thank you so much for sharing these useful ideas here.
Great post & exactly what I need to help me prepare for an upcoming trip to St. Augustine.
So glad it helped!
It’s like you’re on a misoisn to save me time and money!
Absolutely! I love time savers and packing is one of my passions – along with travel!
Connie,
One of the reasons I created this list was as a guide. What may work for one person may not work for another. This is merely a guide. If I were staying in accommodations where I could do laundry, I would take less. Depending on the season and where I am traveling I will tweak this. However, I have traveled with all of this in a carryon.