An excellent method of packing clothes in a carryon suitcase is the bundle method. Here’s how to do it: Select a suitcase that opens to a box-like section.

1. Lay your longest clothing item across the opening, with both ends of the garment hanging over the sides.

2. Place your next garment on top the first one but in the opposite direction, flattening collars and sleeves and smoothing fabric as you go. Let any excess hang over the sides of the suitcase. Continue alternating each piece of clothing, one on top of the other.

3. When you have all your clothing stacked in this flat manner, place packing cubes or other folded items in the middle to form a nice core. That will keep clothing from moving around, and it will also provide rounded corners to lessen the likelihood of creases. I like to use the packing cubes that hold socks or underwear. For business trips, this is where I usually put the large zip-top bag containing scarves I’ve coordinated to go with my outfits.

4. Next, fold all the sleeves and legs and any other lengths of fabric over the core pieces. If you end up with any excess fabric from long pant legs or skirts, simply tuck it under the bundle in progress.

5. The result will be a smoothly folded “pillow” of clothing that can be lifted out in one piece, if necessary. Not only does it eliminate wasted space in your carryon, but your clothing will also resist wrinkling.

If you can’t unpack and hang up the clothes at your destination, you can still easily find items you want by unwrapping  layers until you reach what you’re looking for. Remove the items and refold what remains.

Bundle-packing can save you a bundle of frustration. Try it on your next trip.

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Fiercely Frugal Savage Sister Diana has gathered packing pointers over the years on numerous domestic and foreign trips. Most recently, she travels in conjunction with the publication of her latest book, 52 Heart Lifters for Difficult Times.
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