Travel expert Becky Moore, founder of GlobalGrasshopper, says holidaymakers should avoid cramming too many clothes into their luggage to prevent wrinkles. She warns that overpacking can leave garments squashed together and increase the chances of them becoming creased.
Roll clothes to prevent creases
Moore, who has travelled to more than 40 countries, recommends rolling clothes rather than folding them. She said: "This prevents creases from forming in the fabric."
A method highlighted by Travel + Leisure adds a simple extra step to ensure rolled clothes are secure. It advises laying the item flat, turning the bottom two inches inside out to create a pocket, then rolling the garment tightly from the opposite end.
Secure the roll with a pocket
Once the garment has been rolled, the turned-out section can be folded over the roll to hold it in place. This means the clothes can stay compact without relying on conventional folds that can leave noticeable lines across the fabric.
Rolling is not necessarily the best way to maximise every inch of suitcase space, but it can be useful for garments where avoiding pronounced creases is the priority. It also allows holidaymakers to see individual rolls more easily, rather than having to pull folded layers apart when looking for a particular item.
Don't overpack your suitcase
Moore says travellers should also think carefully about how much they are taking with them: "If you still want to pack them, then you need to know the right way to avoid creases. Don't overpack your suitcase or bag, this will cause your clothes to become wrinkled from being squished together."
For particularly crease-prone garments, it is worth checking the fabric's care instructions before packing. Some delicate materials may require different treatment, and anything that should not be tightly rolled should be packed according to its specific care guidance.
The two-inch pocket technique is said to be particularly useful for T-shirts, casual shirts and other garments that can be rolled without causing damage. Once everything is packed, avoid putting unnecessary pressure on the suitcase, as tightly compressing the contents can undo the benefit of careful packing.
