With every trip, we get a little smarter about packing for our trips. Along the way, we’ve picked up a few tricks that really do make a difference. We go out both day and night when we travel and usually want a variety of clothes with us. So these tips aren’t about packing for a six month backpacking trip, we wouldn’t even begin to know where to start. This is about making the most of your luggage space or simply packing smarter, whether a suitcase that you’re going to check or a carry-on bag.

1.  Roll Your Clothes – Honestly, it makes a difference.  Physics tells us that an object should take up the same amount of space regardless of whether you fold or roll your clothes, but for once physics is wrong.  For some reason, rolling your clothes really allows you to put more into your suitcase or carry-on.  In addition to making more room, your clothes will also be less wrinkled, a win-win.
2. Use Contact Cases – For moisturizer, face soap, conditioner, foundation, lotion, creams or gels that you don’t need a lot of while you’re travelling.  Rather than taking the large container that the product came in or buying expensive travel size containers, using contact cases can save a lot of space.
3. Choose One Color Palette – Whether for clothes or make-up for women, sticking to one color palette can save you space and aggravation.  You can bring a single belt, single pair of shoes, pants with multiple tops/shirts, etc.  Stick with black or brown with warm or cool tones and it will make getting ready to get out the door a breeze and save space.
4. Put Plastic Wrap on Liquids – Putting plastic wrap over the spray nozzle or top of a liquid container can save you from opening your suitcase only to find that something has leaked over your clothes.  An ounce of prevention can make a world of a difference.
5. Wrap Your Necklaces in Plastic Wrap – Obviously, this one is for the women, but necklaces can get tangled when you travel, even if you use a jewelry travel case.  Lay a piece of plastic wrap down, lay your jewelry on it with a space between each piece, then put another piece of plastic wrap on top, pressing down between the necklaces.  No more tangled mess.