If you struggle with overpacking on holiday, the viral 'Sudoku' method can help you cut down on baggage fees by ensuring everything fits into your small cabin bag. This clever technique limits your packing to just nine pieces while still offering more than 20 different outfit combinations.
What is the Sudoku Packing Method?
The premise is simple: pack three tops, three bottoms, and three layering pieces. Each item is selected to work across the grid, meaning every top pairs with every bottom, while layers can be added to create multiple variations of each look. For example, choose flowy maxi skirts, jeans, and linen shorts for bottoms, and versatile vest tops, T-shirts, and crochet knits for tops. Layering pieces like a lightweight jacket, linen shirt, and cardigan or sweater help maximise outfits while preparing for all temperatures.
How to Pack Efficiently
To finish off your packing, fashion experts at Joe Browns recommend adding just two pairs of shoes: one everyday option for comfort and one more elevated style for evenings, such as ballet flats or chic sandals. Both pairs should work across multiple outfits within the grid. It is also worth wearing your bulkiest pair to travel in, whether chunky trainers or boots.
With airline fees quickly adding up and many carriers charging per kilo or up to £65 for overweight luggage, packing efficiently has never been more important. This is especially crucial if flying a budget airline like Ryanair or EasyJet, which have strict hand luggage rules. To avoid paying extra altogether, you need everything to fit into a bag measuring 40cm x 30cm x 20cm.
Save Money and Space
This method means you can put together more than 20 different outfits for your holiday, all with minimal bag space required – and without having to wait for your checked bag to arrive at the other end. So this summer, try the Sudoku packing method to lighten your load and save a hefty amount on baggage fees.
