Packing Tips for Wrinkle-Free Clothes

Several years back when my husband and I were preparing for our first cruise, I stumbled upon one of the best packing tips I have ever heard. This simple way to pack my clothes would ensure nearly wrinkle-free clothing. On top of that, I would eliminate the need to search through my bags to find exactly what to wear. Here are the steps I took for a stress-free, wrinkle-free travel experience.

Packing Tips for Wrinkle-Free Clothes, Step #1 - Plan your outfits before you pack.
I know this sounds obvious but even when I thought I was planning my outfit in advance, I would arrive only to find I was missing a tank top or some other item necessary to complete my outfit. Now when I pack, I lay my clothes out on the bed by outfit. I start from the first thing I would put on (namely undergarments) and then layer every item I need to complete the outfit as if I was getting dressed. This guarantees I have everything I need.

Packing Tips for Wrinkle-Free Clothes, Step #2 - Iron.
Now that I have all my outfits selected, I iron every piece prior to packing. Even though most hotels offer irons and ironing boards as amenities in guest rooms, who wants to spend valuable vacation time ironing? Not me!

Packing Tips for Wrinkle-Free Clothes, Step #3 - Fold.
The next step I take is to neatly fold each item in an outfit and stack with the heaviest item (usually pants, shorts or skirt) on the bottom. Continue stacking the rest of the outfit ending with the lightest item on top.

Packing Tips for Wrinkle-Free Clothes, Step #4 - Place stacked outfit in 2-gallon Ziploc bag.
The last step prior to placing your items in the suitcase is to take your stacked outfit and place it in a 2-gallon Ziploc storage bag. Compress the bag so all the excess air is removed. You now have a complete outfit, neatly folded and once removed from the bag- minimal wrinkles.

That's it! Such a simple process but one of the best and most organized ways to pack your suitcase. You will be amazed at how many more items you can fit in your suitcase by packing your clothes in this manner. Plus all the pieces to an outfit are in one easily accessible place. But best of all, no ironing. The 2-gallon Ziploc storage bags can usually be found at Target as well as some grocery stores.