Packing a suitcase correctly has frustrated many travelers! But it is not too complicated if you know the tips. The goal, as always, is to maximize space by avoiding a case full of wrinkled and useless clothing. Fortunately, there are several ways to achieve this. This article discusses the stack method.

1) Calculate in advance the amount and type of clothing you will need for your trip. Clearly, a week-long city break requires more than a weekend in the country. Ask yourself: What does the weather report say? Will you have laundry facilities where you go? It goes without saying that you won’t need hiking boots for a beach vacation or a suit at a campsite!

2) Pack only small toiletries if possible. Be sure to seal them in plastic bags to protect against spills. If you really need larger bottles or packages, at least make sure they are shaped in a practical way – flat rather than round or uneven. Choose bottles with screw or safety caps that won’t break suddenly.

3) Before you start packing, make a list. Then reduce this list by about 10% or so. It helps if you find out your outfits beforehand, so you know if all the items are really necessary. Once you’ve made sure you’re not carrying too many unnecessary things, you’re ready to pack.

The stack method

1. Start with shirts, t-shirts, and blouses. Stack them all on top of each other without bending. Make sure the ones that wrinkle the easiest are at the bottom.
2. Now fold the sleeves completely together.
3. Fold the shirts in half. You should end up with a roughly rectangular shape. Because they are in a large package, their tops are more resistant to wrinkles and the shape means that they will fit perfectly in your suitcase.
4. Fold pants and jeans individually in half and re-stack in wrinkle order!
5. Hold this pile in the middle as you did the shirts and place the rectangle of your pants in the suitcase next to the pile of shirts.
6. If you have skirts and dresses, place them in the suitcase on your two rectangles. Tuck the ends around the stacks to save space.
7. Fill your shoes with underwear and socks and place them in the holes in your suitcase.
8. Do the same for toiletries and other belongings, but if possible, keep them towards the center to avoid excessive shocks and possible spills.