Travelers are constantly searching for smarter ways to pack, and a new trend is gaining momentum among frequent flyers. Instead of traditional packing cubes, many are now turning to soft waterproof dry bags — the same type used in kayaking and water sports.
These bags can be compressed tightly by squeezing out all the air, allowing clothes to take up significantly less space while staying protected from spills and moisture. Travellers praise them for doubling as laundry bags during trips.
Travel experts say that the secret to efficient packing goes beyond bags alone. Choosing versatile clothing that can be mixed and matched is key, as well as sticking to neutral tones. Minimalism is winning the luggage battle.
Packing specialist Chantelle Mila recommends placing clothes vertically to better use suitcase depth. Another tip she swears by: cotton pads infused with essential oil to keep outfits smelling fresh throughout the trip.
DIP tips: extra hacks for perfect packing
- Vacuum bags. Ideal for bulky items like coats and knitwear.
- Packing cubes. Great for organisation and sorting.
- Roll method. Saves space and prevents wrinkles.
- Use shoe space. Store socks or accessories inside shoes.
- Separate liquids. Always pack them in sealed bags.
- Heavy items at the bottom. Improves suitcase stability.
- Clothes as padding. Wrap fragile items in soft fabrics.
- Mini toiletries. Travel-sized items lighten the load.
- Multi-use clothing. One item, several outfits.
- Packing list. Keeps your suitcase under control.
- Photograph your outfits. Prevents overpacking.
- Skip the unnecessary. Take what you’ll actually use.
- Luggage scale. Avoid overweight fees.
- Maximise carry-on. Keep essentials within reach.
- Compression sacks. Reduce volume without a pump.
- Organisers. For jewellery, shoes, tech and more.
- Nesting system. Small items inside larger ones.
- Laundry bag. Keep clean and dirty separated.
- Remove tags. Helps avoid customs questions.
- Charge everything before your trip. And always bring a power bank.