Packing a weekend bag

Short answer: Roll everything, put the heaviest items at the bottom and keep underwear and socks together in a separate pouch. That way the bag takes up the least space and you can find everything without emptying it.

Roll instead of folding

Rolled clothes take up less space and crease less in a bag. A roll has no sharp folds and can be pushed into corners and gaps where a flat stack will not fit. Soft fabrics such as T-shirts and undershirts roll well. Lay the piece flat, fold the sleeves in and roll from the bottom. See bamboo undershirts for men.

Heavy items at the bottom

Shoes and a wash bag at the bottom keep the bag balanced. With the weight low down, the bag hangs steadily on your shoulder and does not tip over when you put it down. The heavy items do not squash the lighter clothes either. Place shoes soles out along the sides, or pack them in a bag. See bamboo sweatpants for men.

Small items in their own pouch

Otherwise underwear and socks disappear into the corners. A small fabric pouch gathers them in one place, so you can lift out the whole pouch instead of digging around. It also makes mornings easier in a hotel room or at a friend's place. See bamboo socks.

What you need first on top

Think about what you will reach for first when you arrive. An outfit for the evening or a top for the journey belongs on top. That saves you opening the whole bag just to find one thing, and the rest stays neatly in place.

Pack by the number of days

Pack one outfit per day plus an extra pair of socks and underwear. That covers most weekends and keeps the bag light. An extra outfit is rarely worn and takes up more space than you think. Choose pieces that combine, so two pairs of trousers can go with three tops.

Use the gaps

A pair of socks fits inside your shoes. A rolled T-shirt can fill the gap next to the wash bag. Those small spaces are free room, and they also stop things sliding around on the way. The less things can move, the less the clothes crease.

A pouch for worn clothes

Bring an empty bag for worn clothes. It keeps clean and worn items apart all weekend, and at home you can empty it straight into the laundry basket. Packing for the trip home is quicker too, because nothing needs sorting first.

Air the bag when you get home

Empty the bag the same day and leave it open for a day. A closed bag with a little damp from a wet towel or worn socks quickly picks up a smell that settles in the lining. That way it is fresh and ready for your next trip.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best way to pack a weekend bag

Roll all the clothes, put the heaviest items at the bottom and keep underwear and socks in a separate pouch. Put what you need first on top.

Do rolled clothes take up less space in a bag

Yes. A roll uses the corners better than a flat stack and creases less on the way, especially in soft fabrics such as T-shirts.

Why use a pouch for small items

Because underwear and socks otherwise disappear into the corners. With a pouch you can find them without emptying the bag.