7 Better Ways to Pack Your Carry-on (beyond rolling clothes), by Aly Smalls on YouTube. 10 min 8 s.
- Video length
- 10 min 8 s
- Time to do it
- 30 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 6
What you need
Steps
Open your carry-on flat. Lay longer clothes across the base in overlapping layers, alternating directions, then put small items in the centre.
Fold the clothes you are not bundling into neat rectangles. Smooth each fold and stack them flat rather than rolling them.
Choose a few hero pieces that mix and match, such as a dress, hoodie and neutral trousers, and plan outfits around them.
Use double-duty bags. Put tech in a sling or crossbody bag and use a tote for snacks, then slot them into gaps.
Reuse your laundry bag for dirty clothes, shoes or cables. Roll it tight and tuck it into a corner.
Close the bundle by folding the sides over the centre. Zip slowly while pressing down, and check the bag's weight.
Tips and common mistakes
Check your airline's carry-on size and weight limit before you start packing.
Wear your bulkiest shoes and jacket on travel day to save space in the bag.
Leave a little room so the bag zips easily and you can add small souvenirs.
Keep liquids and chargers in an outside pocket for security checks.
Questions
What is the clamshell bundle method?
It means opening your bag flat and wrapping clothes around the centre in overlapping layers. This can reduce creases and use the full depth of the bag.
How many outfits should I pack for a week?
Aim for a small mix-and-match set, such as three tops, two bottoms and one layer, plus one dress or special item. Plan to rewear pieces.
Can I use packing cubes with these methods?
Yes. Use cubes for small items or folded stacks, but keep the bundle layers loose in the main compartment. Double-duty bags can also hold shoes or laundry.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
