Once you’ve honed your packing list, it’s time to make it fit. There are a million and one packing hacks out there, but ultimately you need to find out what works for you. That said, there are a few tips which are always helpful when trying to maximise the efficiency of your packing.
If you have a hard-shell case, it may have ridges on one side for the handle. Fill the spaces between them with long or small items, like underwear, swimwear and lightweight clothes. Once you’ve made a flat surface, stick to one method for the rest of your clothes – fold them flat and wide, laying one item on top of the next, or roll them up as small as possible, stacking them next to each other.
Toiletries, books and equipment are often irregularly shaped or delicate, so you may want to fill in any gaps between them with clothes. Similarly, you should save a few small, soft items (like socks) to stuff your shoes; this helps them hold their shape and ensures you use all the space in your bag.