Packing your suitcase: five tips to be more efficient

If every holiday departure feels like a struggle, maybe you haven’t fully embraced the “KonMari method”... Follow the guide!

Every time you leave for vacation, it’s always the same story: nothing works, your suitcase won’t close — no matter if you sit on it or ask someone else for help. That’s without taking into account the method and unbeatable tips of Marie Kondo, the queen of organization and tidiness, who also has her own approach to an optimized suitcase.

Tip 1: Plan AheadGolden rule according to the tidying expert: “One week before departure, make a list of all the essential items you’ll need for your trip and gather them little by little.” This way, first, you’ll realize how much space the trip will require, and second, you’ll have enough time to get everything without forgetting anything.

Tip 2: Choose the Right ClothesSpread all the clothes you’re considering for the trip on the floor (seasonal items) and sort them by category: T-shirts on one side, pants on the other. For each piece, ask yourself: “Do I really need this? Will it be useful at my destination? Do I feel good in it?” This will help eliminate “just-in-case” clothes in favor of practical ones. She also suggests choosing comfortable clothes that don’t wrinkle easily.

Tip 3: Use PouchesHer storage mantra: “one pouch per category.” One for electronics, another for underwear, another for shoes, and one for makeup. This method makes everything easier to find during the trip. She also advises transferring toiletries into small bottles to save space.

Tip 4: Fold DifferentlyHer signature technique: vertical folding. It saves space and keeps everything visible. On her YouTube channel, she shows tutorials for folding clothes this way. Rolling clothes also helps, since it allows you to fill small corners of the suitcase.

Tip 5: Don’t unpack everythingThe last trick that will save you time upon arrival: don’t unpack your belongings. On the contrary, it’s better to keep them folded and stored vertically for an optimal wardrobe once you’re there. This way, you can grab one item without disturbing the others.