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Organization is the key to efficient packing.
Travel + Leisure
I may be aprofessional packer, but I didnt always approach packing with a game plan.
Credit:Travel + Leisure
I cringe thinking about how I used to pack especially during my college semester abroad.
I dont remember folding or rolling anything, and I certainly wasnt usingpacking cubes.
I have distinct memories of hauling my overstuffed suitcases around Europe.
Amazon
Thankfully, Ive since honed my packing skills.
While Ive tested nearly everypacking hack out there,Ive found the true secret to minimalist packing is organization.
Available at Amazon, Paravel, and July, my recommendations start at just $10.
Amazon
How would adding material to your suitcase result in more room for your clothing and other accessories?
It wasnt until I was introduced to compression packing cubes, however, that I understood the appeal.
I like to use them for sweaters, sweatpants, and jackets.
Amazon
These provide guardrails, too.
Waterproof and durable, they organize my items into set categories.
Everything has its place, and my valuable luggage real estate is maximized.
Amazon
A simple tank dress is more suitable for a fancy dinner when you add earrings.
Jeans and a basic T-shirt are elevated by adding a bangle or two.
Even a small jewelry box takes up a significant amount of space in your carry-on suitcase.
July
Use the shelves as you would regular packing cubes.
For a long weekend trip, I suggest putting each days outfits on their own shelf.
The entire apparatus compresses down for travel days.
Paravel
The spill-proof, stain-repellent organizers have a flat, rectangular shape.
I never have an issue fitting any of them into my carry-on or my backpack or tote.
The transparent panels are also helpful for knowing whats inside (and noticing if anything has spilled).