Organize to Maximize Your Suitcase Space

how to organize packing a suitcase, professional home organizer, Love to Organize, Coachella Valley, CA

Vacation season has arrived! Are you planning a summer getaway? Does the thought of packing your suitcase cause you immediate stress? It can be a lot to figure out, especially when the “What if I need this?” thoughts start creeping in. Whether you are packing for a flight, planning an epic road trip adventure or a simple weekend getaway, the solution is to organize your packing to maximize every inch of space in your suitcase. We have the tips and strategies you need to pack like a pro!

Start With a List

Every organizing project begins with a plan, even the seemingly small ones like packing a suitcase. Make a list of everything you can think of that you may need with you on your trip. Break your list down into categories like clothing, shoes, toiletries and electronics. This list will help you stay focused and avoid tossing in last minute items just in case you may need them.

Travel Documents

Gather your identification, passport and any other documents related to your trip. A slim, zippered travel wallet or organizer with multiple compartments will work well to store anything you may need as you set off on your adventure. Pack this wallet in your carry on bag if you are flying or an easily accessible place if you are driving. Having your passports, boarding passes, tickets, confirmations and cards all in one place will make the process much smoother when you need to access them during your trip.

how to organize packing a suitcase, professional home organizer, Love to Organize, Coachella Valley, CA

Roll Those Clothes

Did you know that rolling your clothes, instead of folding, is a space saving strategy? It also minimizes the wrinkles and makes it so much easier to see what you have in your suitcase. Everything is visible at a quick glance. If you have items that won’t easily roll, fold them flat and lay them on top of your rolled items.

Outfit, Not Item

When you are crafting your packing plan, think of the clothing you will need by outfit, not individual items. Building out full outfits, shoes included, will help make sure every item you take has a purpose. You won’t need those five extra, random shirts. It’s also helpful to choose items that can be mixed and matched to create a variety of outfits you can wear more than once.

how to organize packing a suitcase, professional home organizer, Love to Organize, Coachella Valley, CA

Cube & Compress

If you are heading off for a long trip that requires a lot of items to pack, consider using compression bags to really save some space. Packing cubes are excellent to keep your suitcase organized. They come in varying sizes, so you can use small ones for underwear and swimsuits and larger ones for those full outfits you have planned out. Bonus organizing points if you label!

Souvenir Space

Plan ahead and leave room in your suitcase for any souvenirs you may purchase on your vacation. You will need room for those items. You can also pack an extra bag, something foldable, for those memorabilia purchases. When it’s time to pack for your trip home, you don’t want to be stressed or searching for a second suitcase.

how to organize packing a suitcase, professional home organizer, Love to Organize, Coachella Valley, CA

Have Fun!

Making a plan and organizing your packing will help you feel lighter and calmer so you can focus on enjoying what matters most!

Does your home need a little decluttering and organizing magic and you don’t have the time, energy or desire to do it yourself?
Schedule your free consultation today and let’s see how I can help you transform your space from chaos to calm!