Travelling together with one case

Short answer: One suitcase for two needs a shared list and matching travel colours. Divide the suitcase into two layers rather than two sides, so you can both reach your things without unpacking everything each time.

A shared list first

Two lists lead to duplicates of everything that could be shared. Sit down together and write one list, with shared items in one place and personal items in another. You will see at once that you only need one charger, one toothpaste and one wash bag. See all clothing for men for pieces that fit the list.

Layers rather than sides

Most people split a suitcase into a left and a right side. The trouble is that you then have to open everything and dig through both sides to find anything. If you each take a layer instead, one person's things sit on top and the other's underneath. See bamboo joggers for men for the travel day.

Matching colours save space

When your travel clothes follow a few shared colours, everything goes with everything. That means fewer pieces in the suitcase, because each one can be worn more than once. If outer layers can be shared too, you only need to pack one set. See bamboo sweatpants for men in calm colours.

What you can share

Outer layers, a wash bag and a charger are the obvious things to share. A warm jumper or a jacket is rarely worn by both of you at the same time, especially if you are not always out together. The same goes for towels if your accommodation does not provide them. Every shared item frees space for something that cannot be shared.

What each person packs

Underwear and socks are packed for each person for every day of the trip. Each piece takes little room, but together they add up. Keep them in a small pouch or a separate section of your own layer so they are easy to find in the morning. That way nobody has to dig through the other person's things.

Roll rather than fold

Rolled clothing uses the corners of the suitcase better than flat piles and creases less. Soft materials such as bamboo and knit roll well. Put the heaviest items at the bottom near the wheels so the suitcase stands steady. The smallest and lightest things can then fill the gaps at the end.

Clothes for the journey itself

Travel days are often long, with seats, queues and changing temperatures. Soft trousers and a top you can take on and off make the journey more comfortable. A calm travel outfit can also double as loungewear at the hotel in the evening. That gives it two jobs while it only takes up space once.

A bag for worn clothes

Pack an empty laundry bag from the start. Worn clothes go in there so they do not mix with clean ones. On a trip for two it also makes the journey home easier, because everything worn is in one place. At home the bag goes straight to the washing machine, and the suitcase is empty and ready for next time.

Frequently asked questions

Can two people travel with one suitcase

Yes, on trips of up to a week. It takes a shared list so you do not pack duplicates of things you can share.

How do you divide the suitcase

Into two layers rather than two sides. One layer each lets you find your things without emptying the whole suitcase.

What can be shared on a trip

Outer layers, a wash bag and a charger. Underwear and socks, on the other hand, are packed for each person for every day of the trip.