The One Space-Saving Packing Trick You Should Skip, According To Tan France
Roll, fold, bundle, or cube clothes, the battle for extra luggage spaces wages on. Regardless of how you go about your packing routine, there is one travel hack that Tan France says you should avoid. The fashion designer and beloved style expert on the Netflix show "Queer Eye" told Real Simple that even though vacuum seal bags can free up more room for clothes, it just isn't worth it.
In other words, not only will it leave your outfits all wrinkled, but you'll have to spend your precious vacation time sourcing an iron strong enough to work out the kinks, he said in an interview with the publication. In some cases, your hotel may not have one on hand and a steamer will just take up more real estate in your suitcase. That said, instead of stuffing your luggage full of outfits you may or not wear and risking creases in the process, he offers a better solution for fashion-savvy travelers.
Skip the vacuum seal and pack light instead
With three to four flights per week, Tan France has mastered the art of chic and practical. His secret: he packs light, often with just a carry-on. Of the myriad reasons this is more practical than checked luggage (less time planning, packing, and waiting for luggage on the carousel), the most straightforward benefit is that his clothes stay pristine. Plus, the more clothes you pack, the more tension you create in your bag, which can cause your fabric to wrinkle. A lighter load, on the other hand, means your clothes will have more breathing room to stay smooth.
France creates the illusion of endless vacation options by packing a neutral capsule wardrobe, i.e., a few timeless pieces in complimentary colors that blend together seamlessly. He prefers to save pops of color and interesting accents for his accessories and statement pieces, like belts, scarves, and hats. In addition to that, he wears his bulkiest shoes and outwear to the airport, giving his other essentials more room in his carry-on. As for packing, he is a folder, not a roller, and keeps his underwear flat to free up extra space. In fact, one of his favorite party tricks is stuffing socks and small accessories inside his shoes.
More tips for wrinkle-free vacation outfits
To avoid overstuffing the luggage (thereby reducing wrinkles), Tan France recommends that travelers plan outfits ahead of time, per an interview with Travel + Leisure. You may also want to avoid the temptation to bring that outfit you've been saving just for your getaway. After all, if you're not comfortable enough to wear it at home, a change of scenery might not be enough to convince you to wear it anywhere else. Instead, the extra room in your luggage could be spent on something else, like a trusted outfit you know and love. When you arrive at your destination, hang up your clothes before you hit the beach so they have time to unfurl.
It's worth thinking about your fabrics, too. Cotton and linen, for example, will crease with ease. You'll fare better with denim, wool, silk, cashmere, polyester, nylon, or lycra. Look for outfits with blended fabrics as well, like a 60/40 split between cotton and polyester. You can separate your garments from one another by enlisting the help of tissue paper, dry cleaner bags, unscented trash bags, or packing cubes. The "sushi method" might prove to be another winner as well. With this method, you'll bundle your clothes with the most wrinkle-resistant items in the middle and the more delicate fabrics on the outside, giving them the most surface area. Whatever method you choose, one thing is certain: there is no need to sacrifice style for space.