How I Pack My Suitcase Like a Pro (With Zero Wrinkles!)

I used to be the traveler who sat on her suitcase, zipped it shut with prayer, and still pulled out wrinkled clothes on arrival. 

Sound familiar? 

For years, I’d land in a new city only to iron outfits in hotel bathrooms. But after enough one-way flights and missed photo ops, I knew something had to change.

Now, packing feels easy. No more stress, no more crushed dresses or crumpled tees. 

I’ve figured out how to pack my suitcase like a pro—and keep everything wrinkle-free. Whether you’re headed on a weekend trip or a long-haul getaway, this guide will help you pack smarter, lighter, and cleaner.

Here’s exactly how I do it.

Start With a List

I never start packing without a list. It keeps me focused and stops me from overpacking.

I break it down by outfits, not items. One outfit per day, plus one extra. That’s it.

I also write out shoes, toiletries, electronics, and anything season-specific. A good list = less chaos later.

Use Packing Cubes (but the Right Way)

I know, everyone talks about packing cubes. But not all of them work the same.

I use two: one for tops and dresses, one for bottoms. I roll my clothes and line them up tight in each cube.

Rolling keeps them smooth and saves space. The cube adds structure so things don’t shift around.

Fold Strategically for Delicate Items

Some clothes shouldn’t be rolled. Linen, silk, or anything stiff gets folded once—then layered with tissue paper.

I stack those on top in my suitcase so they don’t get squished.

Sometimes I even wrap them in a cotton pillowcase. It sounds extra, but I swear it works.

Shoes Go at the Bottom

Always pack shoes first. Soles down, near the wheels. I stuff socks or swimsuits inside them to save space.

If I’m bringing heels, I wrap them in shower caps to keep dirt off everything else.

Then I pack around them—this keeps the suitcase balanced and avoids squishing clothes.

Use a Laundry Bag from the Start

Don’t wait to deal with dirty clothes later. I pack a small drawstring bag just for laundry.

It keeps used clothes separate and makes repacking faster.

I also toss in a couple of dryer sheets to keep the suitcase smelling fresh, especially for longer trips.

Keep Toiletries Tight

I use leak-proof bottles inside a clear zip bag, always in the outside zipper section.

If I’m flying carry-on, I stick to travel sizes. I also use solid shampoo and conditioner bars to save space and avoid liquid limits.

Bonus: they never spill.

Jackets and Bulky Items Go on Top

I fold jackets once and lay them flat on top of everything. Same with a sweater or scarf.

It keeps them from getting crushed and adds a little cushion for the rest of the bag.

Plus, they’re easy to grab if I need one while traveling.

My Wrinkle-Free Secret Weapon: A Travel Steamer

Even with all the careful packing, sometimes something still creases.

I carry a mini travel steamer—it’s lighter than an iron and works in minutes.

I’ve used it everywhere from Airbnb kitchens to train station bathrooms. Game-changer.

Use a Personal Item Wisely

My backpack or tote carries anything I’ll need during transit: electronics, chargers, passport, a snack, and one change of clothes.

That way if my bag ever goes missing (yes, it’s happened), I’m not stuck without the essentials.

I also pack my skincare and toothbrush here for long-haul flights—no rummaging through my main suitcase midair.

If you liked these tips then make sure to save this post for the next time you’re packing your suitcase.

👉 Save this pin so you always remember these tips before you begin your travels: