Travel packing hacks to maximise suitcase space

Packing your bags for a holiday is a great way to get into the mood for your next big adventure. But trying to fit all those beautiful clothes and accessories into one suitcase can be a struggle, so we've rounded up a few travel hacks for your next journey that allow you to pack smarter – with travel essentials from the Cathay Shop . After all, how else will you make enough room for all those gifts you want to bring home? 

1. Use packing cubes

Compartmentalising using packing cubes helps you keep track of what’s already in your suitcase. Plus, they compress your clothing, allowing you to fit more in your luggage. 

Peak Design’s packing cubes come in two sizes: small rectangular and medium square. Both sizes have a zipper that allows for expansion or compression, with the expanded size holding double the volume. They also come equipped with a moving divider to separate clean and dirty clothes.

Eagle Creek offers something similar, but with an angled opening that keeps clothes in place during packing, and a breathable mesh surface so that you can easily identify your garments. 

2. Bring the essentials 

You don’t need the full 750ml bottle of your favourite conditioner on your trip. Instead, invest in reusable travel containers that can store small amounts of your lotion, face wash and other personal care products. 

Matador’s FlatPak Toiletry Bottle features a light and compact design with a large fill opening. It can hold up to 25ml of liquids, pastes or gels, and even has a tag to remind you of the contents. 

Once you have your items in order, have them all ready to go in a separate toiletry bag for travel so you don’t have to fuss over them every time you go on vacation. Matador steps up to the plate once more with its two-litre FlatPak Toiletry Case. This case is waterproof and has a hang loop that sits open, meaning you can bring it straight into the shower with you. Its Dry-Through^™ Technology ensures that any water still inside will evaporate through the case. 

3. Organise your belongings 

Keeping things tidy helps prevent overpacking. Here are a few top tips for storing valuables and electronic gadgets.

Storing valuables 

A smaller, on-body bag to put your valuables and travel documents in can be helpful during travel. First, everything you’ll likely need at the airport – your phone, wallet and travel documents – is in one place and you won’t be scrambling to empty your pockets when passing through security. Second, it’ll leave more space in your carry-on. 

Tuck away your personal items with Hellolulu’s Mini Kasen Shoulder Bag, which includes one main zippered compartment and two buttoned front pockets. The main body is water repellent, made with recycled material and comes in a stylish graphite-grey. 

For something more in the utility fashion sphere, Caterpillar’s functional City Waist Bag fits the bill. It has one main zippered compartment with an inside pocket, two side handles and an adjustable strap with a buckle. Really, that’s all you need.  

If you’re not digging the fanny pack look, Victorinox’s Travel Organizer can hold up to 10 cards, a passport, boarding passes and more with its slip-in pockets, and fits into your carry-on. 

Storing tech 

Have several gadgets that need charging? Thule’s Electronic Organiser can store several cables, small electronics and other accessories. It can also slip into a larger bag thanks to its slim design. 

If you find yourself in need of a new travel adapter every time you go on holiday, consider Momax’s universal charger. Its comprehensive features – including 2 USB-C and 2 USB-A fast-charging ports, a 100W power output and a simple design – will leave such an impression that you’ll never forget where you put it. 

4. Coordinate your fits 

Planning your outfits before you set off on your trip will help you pack lighter and avoid bringing excess clothing – and save more time for exploring. In addition to picking the right clothes for the activities you’ve planned, choose pieces (with colours, materials and styles) that are versatile and can be mixed-and-matched several ways so you can bring less.  

Need inspiration? Columbia’s Zero Rules Polo for men can be sporty or casual and supports cooling, sweat-wicking and odour control.

Meanwhile, Le Coq Sportif offers women an option that’s sporty, stylish, subtle and stretchy.