New Trip Editorial Department Last updated: August 5, 2026

The Complete Guide to Packing a Suitcase: 10 Tips to Solve Your Luggage Woes

Title

"I can't fit everything in my suitcase..."
"My packing is so bad that it's hard to get things out when I'm at my destination..."
"I want to pack as much as possible, but my luggage gets too heavy..."

Many people probably have these kinds of concerns when packing before a trip.

 

Actually, the capacity of a suitcase doesn't just depend on the "amount of luggage,"

but also changes significantly depending on the "order" and "arrangement" of items.

 

This article introduces practical packing techniques, from the basic rules for efficient suitcase use to solutions for when your luggage doesn't fit.

Title

Table of Contents

一、スーツケースの詰め方で大切な3つの基本ルール

Here are three tips for packing a suitcase efficiently:

① Place heavier items near the casters

Place heavy items like shoes, books, and cosmetics on the caster side.

This stabilizes the center of gravity, making it less likely for the suitcase to lose balance when you pull it.

② Keep frequently used items in easily accessible places

It's convenient to store frequently used items during travel, such as a smartphone charger, toiletries, and a change of clothes, on top or in an easily accessible place.

This reduces the hassle of repeatedly reorganizing your suitcase to find what you need.

③ Leave no gaps

Small spaces, such as between clothes or around shoes, can also be utilized as storage.

By tucking socks and small items into these gaps, you can efficiently use the limited capacity.

Title

二、【実践】スーツケースの詰め方10選

From here, we will introduce practical packing tips.

1. 衣類は丸めて収納する

You can make the most of your space by rolling T-shirts and thin clothing items rather than folding them when storing.

Rolled clothing is easy to shape and fits well into gaps within your suitcase.

However, for items that wrinkle easily, such as shirts and jackets,

placing them flat on top at the end can help prevent wrinkles.

Instructions:

・Lay out your T-shirt or sweater lengthwise.

・Roll it tightly but carefully from the hem towards the neckline.

・Arrange the rolled clothing at the bottom of your suitcase, filling all gaps.

2.パッキングキューブで種類別に分ける

Packing cubes can help you separate clothes, underwear, and small items, allowing you to quickly find what you need at your destination.

Especially on long trips, organizing your belongings by category prevents your luggage from getting messy.

3.重いものはキャスター側に入れる

Place heavy items like shoes and bottles near the wheels.

This will stabilize your suitcase when you move it upright and reduce the burden of carrying it.

How to do it:

・First, place shoes in a bag or shoe case and position them directly above the wheels.

・Then, pack cosmetic pouches, toiletries, books, and other items tightly on top.

4.スーツケースの隙間を活用する

The small gaps between rolled clothes and the spaces around shoes tend to become dead space.

Stuff socks, underwear, chargers, small amenities, and other items into these spaces.

This small effort will surprisingly increase your storage capacity.

5.液体類は漏れ対策をする

Liquids such as toners and shampoos should be placed in plastic bags to prevent leaks.

Placing plastic wrap over the bottle opening before closing the lid is also an effective way to prevent leaks.

6.壊れやすいものは衣類で包む

To ensure their safety, wrap glass products and fragile souvenirs in towels or clothes and store them in the center of your luggage.

It is also important to secure them so they do not move around inside your luggage.

7.帰りのお土産スペースを確保する

When traveling, your luggage can increase due to souvenirs and other purchases.

If you don't fill your suitcase completely from the start and leave a little room, you won't have trouble packing for your return trip.

It's also convenient to pack a foldable bag.

8.バッグインバッグを活用する

Small items like chargers, medicine, and cosmetics are easier to organize if you keep them all together in a small bag.

This is convenient because you can simply take it out and use it after arriving at your hotel.

9.圧縮袋で衣類をコンパクトにする

Vacuum compression bags are effective for bulky items such as winter clothes and thick garments.

However, over-compression can easily increase the weight, so be mindful of both volume and weight.

10.旅行目的に合わせて収納を変える

For business trips, place shirts that wrinkle easily and documents in an accessible location.

For sightseeing trips, focus on storage that makes it easy to organize clothes and small items.

By changing your packing method to suit the purpose of your trip, you can improve the usability of your suitcase.

Title

三、スーツケースに荷物が入らない時の対処法

If you absolutely cannot fit everything in, try the following methods:

① Confirm if it is truly necessary

When traveling, we tend to pack extra "just in case" items.

You can reduce your luggage by checking what's available for purchase at your destination or provided by your hotel.

② Review your clothing volume

There's no need to bring enough clothes for every day of your trip.

You can reduce your luggage by choosing versatile clothing and doing laundry if facilities are available.

③ Reconsider your suitcase size

If the capacity of your suitcase is too small for the amount of luggage you have, forcing items in can lead to damage and make it difficult to move around.

Choosing a size that matches your travel days and amount of luggage is also important for comfortable packing.

Title

四、パッキングしやすいスーツケースを選ぶポイント

When choosing a suitcase, not only capacity but also "ease of storage" is important.

For example, features like the following improve usability during travel:

  • Front-open function
  • Dividers and pockets
  • Expansion function
  • Lightweight design

In particular, front-open type suitcases are convenient at airports and on bullet trains because you can quickly access necessary items even while on the move.

New Tripのスーツケースがパッキングに便利な理由

New Trip suitcases are also designed with a focus on "ease of packing" during your travels.

For example, front-opening models are structured so that you can easily access chargers and small items without opening the main compartment.

Furthermore, models with expansion features allow you to adjust the capacity if your luggage increases during your trip.

For those who prioritize ease of packing, the following models are recommended:

  • Front-opening + expandable models
  • Lightweight and easy-to-carry models
  • Models with ample storage pockets

A suitcase is not just a tool for carrying luggage; it is an important item that makes travel preparation and movement more comfortable.

New Trip 0501

New Trip 0501 スーツケース

S・40L|100%PC

フロントオープン USB充電ポート 拡張機能 ストッパー付き
Title

五、まとめ

To pack a suitcase efficiently,

the basics are important: "heavier items at the bottom," "frequently used items in an easily accessible spot," and "utilize gaps."

 

Furthermore, by using packing cubes or compression bags, it becomes easier to store items even with limited capacity.

If your luggage doesn't fit,

it's not only about reviewing your belongings, but also important to choose a suitcase size appropriate for your travel plans.

 

Combine the correct packing method with an easy-to-use suitcase to enjoy your next trip more comfortably.

執筆・監修

New Trip編集部
本記事は、スーツケース・旅行用品ブランド「New Trip」の編集部により制作されました。
製品開発やユーザーの声を活かしながら、ユーザーに合ったスーツケースや、旅行・出張をより快適にするアイテムを発信しています。