travel hacks laundry

6 Products for Washing Clothes While Traveling

By Bailey Berg

If you’re going on a long trip, be it a summer in Europe or a cross-country road trip, it can be tempting to bring your whole wardrobe. But between baggage fees and weight restrictions, that’s not always possible or practical. One way to avoid overpacking is to wash your clothes while you travel. That’s often easier said than done: Laundromats can be hard to track down or inconveniently located, laundry services at hotels and on ships can be prohibitively expensive, and if you’re spending time in the backcountry, neither are an option.

Taking matters into your own hands isn't as much of a chore as you might think, though: There are plenty of tools that make doing laundry while traveling cheap and simple (and we're not just talking about Tide to Go pens ), without adding too much extra bulk to your luggage. Below, six on-the-road laundry hacks.

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Scrubba Portable Wash Bag

The Scrubba is basically a dry bag with a ribbed interior that functions like a washboard. You put your clothes, some clean water, and detergent in, and rub the garments against the bumps for a few minutes before rinsing everything out. Not counting drying time, the whole process takes about five minutes—and it actually does a good job of cleaning your clothes. It’s fabulous for long-term travelers and for those on days-long camping trips , where packing light is optimal. Plus, it folds down to the size of a deck of cards, so it won’t take up valuable suitcase or backpack real estate.

Nasdom Travel Clothesline

If you’ve ever done laundry in a sink, you’re familiar with the creative exercise in finding enough surfaces to drape your dripping clothes over. This 13-foot clothesline, which comes with built in pins, is easily packable. The hooked ends make it sturdy enough to connect between bed posts, across a balcony, or even from the shower curtain rod to a towel bar in a pinch.

Travelon Laundry Soap Sheets

These laundry soap sheets dissolve in water, so there’s no chance of spillage in your bag (you won't have to worry about the TSA's liquid restrictions either). There are 50 sheets in a box slightly bigger than a raisin container, so you’ll be able to get a lot of mileage out of each pack. Toss one sheet into whatever vessel you’re doing laundry in—a sink, tub, or scrub bag—and it’ll turn into suds. Just be careful to handle the carrying case with dry hands, so you don't accidentally dissolve any of the delicate sheets.

PackTowl Personal Towel

It might not be the most high tech option, but a microfiber towel can dry your sopping wet laundry faster than a clothesline. Start by spreading the towel out on a dry surface. After you wring out as much excess water from your clean clothes as possible, lay a few items on top of the towel. Then tightly roll up the towel with the clothes inside and squeeze. The microfiber fabric will sponge up more of the water (it can actually absorb four times its weight in water). This is a good method for washing heavy garments like jeans or thick sweaters when you need them dry by morning. In addition to its normal functions, this easy-to-pack towel can double as a lightweight blanket on a plane or something to sit on at the beach .

CNT Editors

Caitlin Morton

Jesse Ashlock

Alex Erdekian

Mudder Silicone Tub Stopper

For some reason, it always seems that when you actually need a plug for your hotel room or rental's sink, there isn’t one to be found. Use this universal drain cover in any sink or tub: It is heavy duty enough that it won’t move as you soak your clothes, reducing water and soap waste, but light enough that you won't mind tossing it in your suitcase on trips when you know you'll want to do laundry.

Urpower Garment Steamer

Sometimes doing laundry while traveling comes out of necessity; but other times, it just feels good to freshen up your outfits. Some fabrics, like linen, love to wrinkle in transit; use this travel steamer to smooth out delicate outfits. It’s fairly portable, clocking in at just over eight inches tall and two inches wide. We think it’s worth the luggage space to make sure your outfit looks smart, especially if you’re traveling for a destination wedding or business trip .

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Laundry packing list and laundry tips while travelling

by Anne Betts | Oct 23, 2023 | Luggage and Packing | 7 comments

Updated October 23, 2023

One of the strategies, and challenges, of packing light is to manage if, how, and when to do laundry. The clothes you aren’t wearing are the clothes you need to schlep around from place to place. An essential key to packing light is to pack fewer clothes in fabrics and colours that don’t need to be washed as often, have a plan to keep them clean, and have a laundry packing list to make the task as convenient as possible.

Table of Contents

1. Assemble a travel wardrobe with laundering in mind

2. familiarize yourself with care labels, 3. adopt odour-reducing strategies, 4. plan when to do laundry by the load, 5. handwash regularly   , 6. suss out drying options in your accommodation, 7. fast track drying, 8. conduct a handwashing test, 9. book accommodation with washing facilities, 1. detergent, 2. stain removal, 3. odour removal, 4. dry-bag ‘washing machine’, 5. sink stopper, 6. travel clothesline, 7. travel hangers and clothes pins, 8. laundry bag, packing tips for doing laundry while travelling.

Consider how easy, and how often, something needs to be washed. For example, travel pants and leggings in darker, neutral colours can be worn for several days without washing. Chances are anything in white or light colours will need to be laundered more often and washed separately from darker colours.

Panties don’t take up much space but when washed daily, three or four pairs can suffice. Reusable panty liners worn on long travel days can help underwear (and trousers or leggings) remain fresher. To help tops remain fresher, underarm sweat vests work for some people.

For travel clothing, choose lightweight, quick-drying fabrics. Anything in merino is a good choice. Not only is it lightweight and perfect for layering, but its odour-resistant properties are legendary. For socks, the same pair of merino socks can be worn for several days, so there’s never a need to pack more than two pairs (in addition to compression socks for long flights). The same holds for base layer shirts that can be worn several times without washing. Merino can be pricey, but laundering less means it lasts longer.

Speaking of merino, let’s talk about shoes. If there are more comfortable walking shoes than AllBirds Wool Runners , I’m yet to find them. My Wool Runners are lightweight, eco-friendly, washable, and in the right colour, blend well with a capsule wardrobe. For sandals, I love my Teva Tirra . They’re also washable and spruce up nicely after time on a sandy beach or dusty trail. Havaianas Slim flip flops are lightweight and durable, and work well as shower shoes, indoor wear, or around water.

Become familiar with the care labels of your clothing. Know which pieces must be washed in cold water or laid flat to dry. Anything that can’t be washed (except for outerwear) or dry-cleaned deserves to be left at home.

As previously mentioned, reusable panty liners and underarm sweat vests help reduce odours and extend the time between washing.

Another strategy comes from the performing arts community where costumes need to be worn multiple times. Vodka is a perfect odour remover. It’s odourless, colourless, and has a sanitizing effect. Spritz the offending area with vodka and as it evaporates, the offending odours are removed.

Visiting a self-serve laundromat can be a cultural experience by chatting with locals and learning more about the neighbourhood. However, it consumes valuable travel time that could be invested elsewhere. It also involves figuring out machines and having coins and detergent to operate them.

Another approach is to have a laundry service wash, dry, and fold your clothes, but this requires trust that their products and methods won’t be detrimental to you or your clothes. And charges for services offered by hotels can be excessive.

When staying in holiday accommodation, doing laundry by the load means you’re in charge of detergents and drying methods. It also allows you to do other things while a machine is doing its thing. If there’s no dryer (or air drying is preferred), there will probably be a drying rack and plenty of other places to hang damp clothes and string your travel clothesline.

Handwashing takes a few minutes each evening, and for lightweight and quick-dry fabrics, they’re usually good to go the next day. Unless you’re accumulating laundry to wash by machine at a future stop, washing one or two items daily feels less overwhelming and requires less drying space.

If you like to soak and wash things in a sink, you may have to plan for sinks without plugs, or plugs that don’t work. Also, it’s a good idea to give a sink a good scrub to remove dirt or residue from cleaning products that can stain or discolour clothing.

For areas needing extra attention, such as collars, armpits, and crotch, work on those first. Spend extra time on stained or soiled areas. Then, swirl, swish, and knead the clothing in soapy water for about two minutes.

Another approach is to take dirty items into the shower with you, especially if the sink is lacking in some way. Lather them up, and rinse them off while showering. If the accommodation has a ‘shower bath,’ (bath and shower combo), start by adding a little water and preferred detergent to the tub. While showering, trample, squish, and agitate the clothing with your feet. This works well with larger pieces. 

Hostels, hotel rooms, and holiday apartments offer a variety of places to hang laundry to dry. When staying in a women’s dorm in a hostel, my travel clothesline finds attachment points on the bunk frame. Wooden hangers in hotel rooms and holiday apartments that can be removed from a closet can be hung on a door frame, curtain rod, ironing board, table edge, towel bar, or shower head. Some hangers have clips from which to hang socks or panties. A travel clothesline can be stretched between two stationary objects such as a bed frame, door knob, luggage rack, wall lamp, balcony rail, faucet, towel bar, bathroom hook, dresser handles, or chair. 

To expedite the drying process, squish or wring pieces out to remove as much water as possible. Smooth out any twists so clothes dry faster, keep their shape, and have fewer wrinkles. Take a towel, lay it on a flat surface, and place your pieces of wet clothing flat on top of it, separating each item. Then tightly roll the towel with the clothing inside. Once rolled, apply pressure, or step or kneel on the towel to help it absorb more moisture. Unroll the towel to remove your clothes and hang them to finish drying.

If your accommodation has an iron and ironing board, iron those pieces that could benefit from having additional moisture removed. Or use a  hairdryer for a similar purpose.

Hanging clothes outdoors in fine weather or near a fan, window, or heat source will help them dry faster. Keep in mind that clothes dry more slowly in humid climates.

On a recent trip to Poland in September, I packed two bottoms: lightweight travel pants and Lululemon leggings. I was surprised to discover that the leggings needed more than an overnight to dry. Fortunately, I was staying several days in that location, but had I washed them before a travel day, this would have been handy to know. Taking a handwashing test at home might have given me the intel I needed to choose the best time to launder different pieces of clothing.

Another consideration concerns new purchases and how they react to laundering. If they bleed, it’s better to know this before mixing them with other pieces of clothing.

If daily hand washing isn’t your thing, mix up your accommodation bookings to ensure you have access to a washing machine on a schedule that works for you. When I travel with a group of friends, we book accommodation that invariably has washing facilities. We’ll choose a ‘wash day,’ get ourselves organized, and pool our laundry into loads of lights and coloureds.

Laundry packing list

Many travellers take advantage of what’s available at their accommodation: body wash, shampoo, or bar soap. 

If you have a favourite liquid detergent, decant some into travel-sized bottles no larger than 100 ml for carry-on travel. Or purchase packets of travel-sized laundry detergent before leaving home. One advantage, especially for those with skin conditions, is that you can have confidence in a tried-and-true product.

I’m a fan of an all-purpose bar soap. My favourite is Dr Bronner’s 18-in-One Pure Castile Soap. However, the more I use it for laundry, the less I have left as bath soap. It fits perfectly in a Matador Flatpak Soap Bar Case where the bar dries while it remains sealed away. Dr Bronner’s offers the same product as a concentrated liquid in a travel size.

Better still, laundry eco-strips are a carry-on traveller’s dream. They’re ultra-concentrated, biodegradable sheets of ‘liquidless’ laundry detergent that dissolve in water. Use one for a load, two for heavily soiled laundry, or cut them in halves or quarters for laundry in a sink, shower, or a DIY dry-bag ‘washing machine.’ I’ve used Tru Earth with success, but there are many choices on the market, including Earth Breeze that gets excellent reviews and is on my list to try. Laundry sheets are lightweight, earth friendly, take up very little space, don’t leak, and a small piece goes a long way to meeting handwashing needs.

For stain removal, a Tide to Go Instant Stain Remover Pen does a decent job. It’s cheap, easy to carry, and perfect for removing stains as they appear.

Or, use hand sanitizer. In an interview with the New York Times, cleaning expert Jolie Kerr stated, “If I had to tell people to carry  just one thing  with them to handle stains on the fly, it would be hand sanitizer. It has a high concentration of alcohol in it, which is a very good stain remover and will work on everything from pen to food spills to blood.”

As soon as possible, use warm water and regular soap if you don’t have other options at your disposal. Be gentle. You’re trying to tease the stain out of the fabric, not push it deeper. Make short, quick motions as if you’re tugging the offending stain out. It’s not the time for elbow grease.

Decant a couple of shots of vodka into a travel-sized spray bottle. Or carry an empty bottle and pick up a miniature bottle of vodka during your travels. 

A dry bag is a versatile multipurpose item that can serve as a DIY washing machine. It’s especially useful when camping, and a hygienic choice when staying in facilities with communal sinks. Add laundry, water, and detergent, roll out as much air as possible, then shake, toss, tumble, agitate, and massage the bag to replicate the action of a washing machine. Repeat with a rinse cycle.

A dry bag is a more durable and earth-friendly alternative to a plastic zip-top or garbage bag. For a commercial option, some travellers choose the ‘Scrubba,’ a bag with a handy built-in washboard, air valve, and see-through window. If you’re likely to get enough use of a Scrubba to justify the space, weight, and price, here’s an excellent review from Pack Hacker that explains how to use it. The Scrubba Mini is a smaller, lighter version.

Also, a dry bag is handy when freshly washed laundry isn’t quite dry on a travel day. Packing almost-dry laundry in a dry bag is better than hanging individual pieces from a travel bag. On arrival at your new digs, remove items from the dry bag to finish the drying process.

Not all sinks have a plug, and a rubber universal sink stopper doesn’t work in all sinks. I’ve used duct tape and cling wrap with some success, and Blu Tack works well as a reusable plug. I pack a small amount, about the size of a golf ball, stored in a lightweight sealable container. At 0.8 oz / 24 g, it’s one gram lighter than my universal sink plug and much more versatile.

A retractable clothesline might be available in some types of accommodation. However, a travel clothesline takes up so little space in a travel bag that mine is packed for every trip. It’s lightweight (0.8 oz / 23 g) and doesn’t require clothespins. The hooks at both ends are more serviceable than suction cups. They loop back into the braid, expanding options for setting up the line. My favourite is the Go Travel Pegless Washing Line , with the suction cups left at home. When I stay in hostels, my travel clothesline doubles as a washing line and privacy curtain rod.

Hangers that can’t be removed from a closet rod reduce drying options. For this reason, travelling with your own offers a tried-and-true approach to hanging laundry. My experience with inflatable hangers didn’t end well when the set of two both developed leaks and were useless. However, they are lightweight and improve airflow by separating layers of clothing from each other.  Folding hangers are more reliable. There are a host of possibilities with variations in sturdiness, size, and weight. If hanging clothespins are more your style, these can be hung from a shower rod, towel rack, or back of a chair.  

Separating dirty clothes from clean ones makes it easy when it’s time to do a wash. Choose a bag that’s a good fit for you. I wash daily, so a small, lightweight handmade item made by a friend is all I need to stow one or two pairs of panties, a reusable panty liner, a couple of socks, and a merino base layer. An added advantage is that I think of my friend, Rose (who made the gift), whenever I use it.

When my handmade laundry bag can’t accommodate damp or dirty items, a dry bag is a useful backup.  Might you be interested in this related post?

• 10 Reasons to travel with dry bags

If you found this post helpful, please share it by selecting one or more social media buttons. What are your strategies and packing tips for planning to do laundry when you travel? Please share your thoughts in the comments. Thank you.    

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I bring a small vial of concentrated liquid laundry soap and am mindful of bringing only clothes that are fast drying (NO all cotton anything…ever). Most of the time I’ll do a few pieces in the sink and hang/drip dry (if I even end up doing any laundry at all 😉 As for MUST HAVES on my packing list, one thing I use daily is PortaPocket. It’s a multi-functional wearable that keeps my vital items safe, secure & discreet… it’s easy to use, lightweight & versatile, plus works w/almost any outfit at all, from casual to fancy. Happy new year and Cheers to you, from Chicago!

I love how you’ve broken down the list into categories and provided helpful tips for keeping laundry organized and manageable while traveling. The idea of using dry bags for packing clothes is so clever and I’ll definitely be using that for my next trip. I also appreciate the tips for machine washing clothes and how to quickly dry them. This post will be a great resource for anyone planning a trip and looking for tips on how to stay organized with laundry. Thanks for sharing your expertise!

This is a great post. I especially found the tip about using sanitizer as a stain removal helpful. Something I will be putting into practice right away as my go to has been to use dish-soap but that doesn’t seem to be working this trip.

I love the pictures that accompany this post.

Hey Anne, You know with every article you have so many tips to share that it intrigues me every time. These laundry techniques during traveling are spot-on. It is crazy that some people do not wash their clothes at all during traveling and pack so many things that it becomes hectic to move to places.

The realistic pictures that you shared also help.

This comprehensive guide to doing laundry while traveling is a treasure trove of practical advice and ingenious tips. The insights about assembling a travel wardrobe, using care labels effectively, and optimizing drying methods are invaluable. The packing list for laundry essentials is a must-read for any traveler aiming to stay fresh on the road.

I take a Ziploc bag with a couple of laundry pods. Each time I use one my luggage gets lighter.

Love this comprehensive guide on managing laundry while traveling. These tips are so useful! It is also worth considering packing a small mesh laundry bag to keep your clean and dirty clothes separate in your luggage – it’s been a lifesaver for me! Thanks for sharing these insights!

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37 Packing Hacks: The Best Travel Hacks For Packing

Welcome to JetSetting Fools, here you will find our best travel tips for destinations worldwide. Some of the links on this site are Affiliate Links and if you use them to make a purchase, we may earn a commission. For more information, read our Disclosure Policy .

Packing hacks are the best way to take your travel game to the next level. We have rounded up the top travel packing hacks designed to save you space, time and money – so you can focus your energy on enjoying your trip. Clever and inventive, packing hacks for traveling will enhance your packing skills and overall travel savviness.

37 Best Travel Packing Hacks

I used to be terrible at packing for trips; first I was an over-packer, then an under-packer. Now, as a full-time world traveler, I rely on packing hacks for travel to keep me organized and efficient on travel days. Some hacks for packing have become so ingrained in our travel routine that packing without them is unimaginable.

Our Travel Hacks For Packing

Our list of packing hacks ranges from absolute game changers to creative tricks. Some are tried-and-true traveling hacks for packing, while others are insider tips we gleaned from expert travelers. These packing hacks will work for all travelers – so whether you are seeking backpack hacks or cruise packing hacks, you will surely find a few gems on our list.

We have categorized our list into three sections: Hacks for Packing Clothes, Toiletry Hacks, Carry On Hacks and a few miscellaneous tips, too. This is a mega list of the best packing life hacks – so grab your coffee and settle in.

Get started now with your FREE Packing Checklist !

Clothing Packing Hacks

Because clothing is the main component to packing, we are kicking off our list with hacks for packing clothes.

#1 Packing Cubes Hacks

Of all luggage packing hacks, packing with Packing Cubes ranks most supreme. Providing organization and structure to your suitcase or backpack, Packing Cubes are space-saving superstars. The cubes come in a variety of sizes, styles and materials – all of which need to be considered in order to attain your ultimate packing goal.

Pro Tip : We discuss the different kinds of cubes – and the best packing cube hacks – in detail in our post: Ways Packing Cubes make Travel Easier . 

#2 Cheap Packing Travel Hacks

While Packing Cubes are – hands down – one of the best packing hacks that we use, Packing Cubes are pricey! Personally, we think they are worth every single cent. However, if you are not ready to take the plunge and buy some, rather than packing using Packing Cubes, try Ziplock Bags. This is one of the top travel organization hacks that will save space in your suitcase. 

Gallon-size bags are ideal for organization and compression; however, unlike the quality Packing Cubes we use, Ziplocks have an incredibly short lifespan.

Pro Tip : I used to pack using Ziplocks (before I learned how incredible actual Packing Cubes are!). I would pack one complete outfit in each gallon bag and label it so I could easily find the outfit I was looking for. On the way home from vacation, I used the zip-top bags for my dirty laundry, too!

#3 Clothes-Rolling, Space-Saving Packing Hacks

Rolling clothes – rather than folding them – has long been one of the best suitcase packing hacks for saving space. Travelers can either roll each item individually – or, take it up a notch, and roll an entire outfit (pants, shirt, socks and underwear) together. By rolling a complete outfit, your suitcase becomes a grab-and-go destination when getting ready for the day’s adventure.

Pro Tip : For a tighter roll that stays together, use a ‘military roll’ or hair ties to secure the rolled clothing. If you use hair ties, you will also have backups if you lose or break one on your trip. (Plain rubber bands can be used, too, if you don’t use hair elastics.)

Roll vs Fold Debate

While many travelers rave about the benefits of rolling, it is not one of the packing luggage hacks that we use for our shirts and pants. We find that rolling is time consuming – and although many travelers claim that it can save even more space to pack rolled clothes in Packing Cubes, we have not found that to be true.

That said, the one item of clothing I do roll is my bikini underwear . I start by folding the underwear into thirds – folding each side in to the width of my small Packing Cube. Then, starting at the bottom, I roll up to the waistline. This is actually one of my airport hacks, as much as it is a packing hack, because this way, if my undergarment Packing Cube gets tagged for inspection, the agent rifling through my clothes will be less likely to touch the part of the panties that goes against my skin.

Pro Tip : Another clothes packing hack for underwear is to pack quick drying underwear that will be easy to wash in the sink and dry fast – if need be. A brand that fellow travelers love is Ex-Officio , but I prefer inexpensive and functional Fruit of the Loom . We talk more about clothing materials in a minute!

#4 Folding Hacks for Packing

If you are like us and decide to fold your clothes (instead of roll), then it is key to fold all of your clothing to the exact same size. After spending 10 years working in retail, I am fairly skilled at folding random sized clothing into neat stacks. However, for travelers who find it challenging, one of the packing folding hacks is to use a Folding Board , which will ensure you get a perfect fold on every piece of clothing.

Pro Tip: One of the great business travel packing hacks is to fold your delicate work clothes in dry cleaning bags as it will help eliminate wrinkles on arrival!

#5 Packing Hacks: Travel Clothing

One of the top packing clothes hacks for traveling is to only pack clothing that travels well. There are numerous clothing lines that are designed specifically for traveling, but most travelers don’t need to get that technical – and many items you already own might fit the bill.

The features of clothing that are most important when it comes to packing are moisture-wicking, quick-drying, odor-eliminating, wrinkle-resistant and washable clothing items.

That said, if you do pack clothing that wrinkles, bring travel-size Wrinkle Release Spray  to avoid having to iron on vacation.

Pro Tip : While the right clothing material is essential for travelers, it is equally important to pack clothing that you like and are comfortable wearing…because if it is not comfortable, it will likely stay folded in your suitcase. I share more tips about my packing experience for full-time travel in My Long-Term Travel Packing List: What I Pack To Travel the World .

#6 Pack Multi-Functional Clothing

There are no better packing hacks for traveling light than packing versatile and multi-functional clothing. One of the most useful items I have in my backpack is my wrap – and it has about a million uses.

I have used it as a scarf, a beach cover up, a bath towel, a picnic blanket, a pillow cover, a bedsheet, a head cover, an ear cover, an eye cover, a curtain and a bus seat cover…just to name a few. As long as the wrap is lightweight, dark and washable, the possibilities are endless.

Convertible clothing – like this dress/skirt combo – are awesome packing hacks to save space. Other clothing that can be multi-function are yoga pants (which can double as sleepwear), leggings (which can be layered in cool weather), a casual dress (which can be a beach cover up) and bikini tops (which can be worn as a bra).

Pro Tip : A pillowcase is another good item to pack that is multi-functional. Use it to cover the pillow you sleep on in your accommodations, then fill it with dirty clothes for the trip home.

#7 Capsule Clothing Packing Travel Hacks

Packing a capsule wardrobe is one of the smart packing hacks used by travelers. 

To assemble a capsule wardrobe, first, choose a color scheme of similar shades – like black, dark blue and shades of purple – and only pack clothing that falls into the color palette. Each item – tops and bottoms – need to be able to be mixed, matched and layered with all other items. Outfits can be accessorized with colorful scarves and jewelry.

By using this trip hack, you can pack minimal pieces of clothing that can be combined to make numerous different outfits. Done right, it is one of the space saving packing hacks that allows travelers to pack carry-on luggage only. 

In addition to coordinating my entire wardrobe, one item that I always like to pack is a black skirt . It is something that is comfortable and casual for sightseeing, but can be dressed up with a nicer shirt and a scarf for going out in the evening.

Pro Tip : A life hack for packing clothes for a vacation is to use the Countdown Rule. For example, if you are taking a 5-day trip, pack 5 shirts, 4 pants (or shorts/skirts), 3 dresses, 2 pairs of shoes and 1 colorful scarf (or bold piece of jewelry). Additionally, pack one pair of underwear for every day of the trip, but only one set of pajamas.

#8 Clothes Packing Hacks for Vacation

One of the simple traveling packing hacks that is often overlooked is Destination Research. What I mean by this is that, before you start packing and choosing clothes for your trip, first check the weather forecast for your destination. Also, gain some insight to the destination’s clothing culture and have a basic understanding of what apparel is acceptable at tourist destinations, religious sites, restaurants and clubs.

Pro Tip : Use your itinerary to help decide what clothes to bring. How the Packing Hacks Travel Itinerary works is that, based on your planned activities that you select in advance of your trip, you determine which outfit to wear for each day of your trip. (To book your activities in advance, we use Viator !)

#9 Clever Packing Hacks for Clothing

One of the life hacks for packing that we have long used – and is commonly used by fellow travelers – is to pack clothing items for a trip that you no longer want to keep. After you wear them on your trip, you can donate the clothing at your destination (or, if there is really no life left in the item, just toss it!). This is an especially good tip for families traveling with growing kids.

Pro Tip : One of the truly Travel Light hacks is to reverse this idea slightly. When you leave for vacation, only pack personal items – like undergarments and toiletries. On arrival at your destination, make your first stop a thrift shop and buy new-to-me clothes for the entire trip. On the last day of the vacation, return to the thrift shop and donate all of the clothing back to the store. We have never personally used this hack – but heard about it from a fellow traveler and love the concept!

#10 Travel Hacks for Packing Shoes

To save suitcase space, on any trip, for any length of time, only ever pack three pairs of shoes – I even follow this rule as a full-time traveler! All shoes should be comfortable to wear for long days of sightseeing and, more importantly, they need to go with all the outfits that you are packing. (This idea goes back to the capsule wardrobe method!)

For more travel shoe tips, read our blog post, The Best Shoes for Traveling .

Pro Tip : A good way to keep grimy shoes from dirtying up the inside of your luggage and one of the little genius packing hacks is to fit disposable shower caps (the kind that are free at many hotels) over the sole of the shoe before you put them in your bag. The empty space inside your shoes can also be used to store items – like deodorant and shaving cream, just put it in a resealable bag first.

Resealable bags are one of our essentials for packing. They come in handy for everything from an open bag of snacks to your wet bathing suit on a travel day. Find out more tips in our blog post, Everyday Items for Traveling . 

#11 Clothing Airport Hacks

One of the ingenious suitcase packing hacks to save space is to actually wear your bulkiest items, especially on long travel days . In fact, this is one of the top Carry On Only travel hacks. Rather than using valuable luggage space to pack your coat and boots, wear them on the plane! Tie a sweatshirt around your waist or wear layers that can easily be removed once seated on the plane.

Pro Tip : Another one of the travel packing hacks that can save space inside your luggage is tying your shoes or flip flops to the outside of your carry on bag. This also applies if you carry a water bottle…simply clip it to the exterior of your bag if possible…or better yet, travel with a collapsible water bottle .

#12 Hacks for Packing a Suitcase…Without Over-Packing

Over-packing is a downfall for many travelers – it certainly was for me when I was a novice traveler. But I have learned what an absolute drag over-packing can be. It can weigh you down (literally) when lugging your suitcase through an airport, down a cobblestone street and up the stairs of a boutique hotel.

One of the best life hacks for traveling and packing – or rather not over-packing – is to simply commit to packing in a carry on size suitcase. By limiting the amount of room you have, you will be less tempted to over pack, which is much more sensible! We discuss more specific carry on packing hacks later in the post!

Pro Tip: If you are checking luggage, invest in an affordable luggage scale to ensure you don’t go over the weight limit. You don’t want to be surprised at the beginning of your trip with an extra charge!

Everything we pack for world travel fits in a Carry On size backpack! Find out what we pack: The Ultimate Packing List .

#13 Packing Suitcase Hacks

We pack in backpacks, but one of the best suitcase hacks I ever heard was to shift your perspective of your suitcase. Rather than packing stacks of clothing horizontally into the suitcase, pack vertically, from the wheels up.

Another one of the best Packing a Suitcase hacks is to take this idea one step further. Pack vertically, but pack complete outfits and stack them in the order that you plan to wear them (according to your itinerary!). This way, when you get ready each day, all you need to do is grab the outfit from the top!

Pro Tip : Don’t let any space go unused! One of the long time travel hacks packing tips is to take advantage of small crevices in your suitcase to slip in things like a comb or other small miscellaneous items.

#14 Luggage Hacks

Day packs and purses can take up a lot of room in luggage. Minimize how many items you carry by selecting one purse that will work for all occasions. It is even better if you pack a purse or bag that can double as a day pack.

One of our favorite packing for travel hacks is to pack a lightweight  foldable shopping bag , which unfolds to a bigger bag for going to the beach or shopping during your trip.

Pro Tip : Read more about day bags in our blog post, The Best Day Packs for Traveling .

#15 Packing a Suitcase: Hacks for Fresh Clothing

One way to keep your clothes smelling fresh during your trip is to layer each clothing item with a dryer sheet. This is one of the double-dip packing travel hacks because later, if you need to do laundry while on your trip, you will have dryer sheets to use!

Pro Tip : Another way to keep clothes fresh is with Fabreeze. Pack a travel-size Fabreeze with your toiletries! And, don’t worry, we are getting to our toiletry packing hacks in a minute!

#16 Holiday Packing Hacks for Souvenirs

If you anticipate collecting breakable souvenirs during your trip, a good suitcase hack is to use bubble wrap in between your clothes or outfits. Then, use the bubble wrap to protect souvenirs that you are bringing home.

Other travel hacks for packing souvenirs (and some of the creative ways to better ensure breakables make the trip home undamaged) is to pack them inside Pringles cans or even use the free hotel slippers as cushioning. On the other hand, if you are  buying wine, actual wine protectors are the best.

Pro Tip : In many cases, the best and safest way to transport fragile souvenirs is to ship them home…rather than trying to jam them into your suitcase. 

#17 Packing hacks for Traveling: Laundry

One of the best space-saving travel hacks is simply to plan on doing laundry during your trip. By planning to do laundry while you travel, you will only need to pack one week’s worth of clothing – or less! – even if you are on a 2-week – or longer! – trip.

We recommend booking accommodations with a washer and (maybe) a dryer ( Airbnb is our go-to resource for finding the best places to stay). It is a good idea to pack a few individual packages of liquid laundry detergent , just in case they do not provide any. 

Pro Tip : If your accommodation does not have a washer, there is likely a nearby laundromat – or even laundry service. Just remember to bring a packable laundry bag so that you have something to carry your dirty clothes in.

#18 Sink Laundry: Packing Tips and Hacks

Learning how to efficiently do sink laundry is one of the packing hacks for long trips, when you will inevitably need to wash at least a few undergarments. Sink laundry is as simple as it sounds: It’s when you hand wash your clothes in the sink, bathtub or shower.

The most important thing to keep in mind when washing items in the sink is allowing enough time for clothes to dry (and, again, why it is so important to pack quick-dry clothing).

Many travelers wash clothes at night, before going to bed, to ensure they will dry. We like to take advantage of the sunshine (if possible) and wash them in the morning (but never the morning of a travel day!).

Sometimes we just use a bar of soap to clean our clothes, but Sink Laundry detergent is probably better. A sink stopper will help for scrubbing and rinsing in the sink – and a travel clothesline is ideal to hang up wet clothes. That said, draping socks over a heater or in front of a fan can help speed drying times…and a hair dryer works, too.

Pro Tip : A Scrubba Wash Bag is often touted by fellow travelers as one of the top packing hacks for backpacking, but we have yet to use one personally!

Packing Hacks For Toiletries

Our list of packing toiletries hacks is full of ideas that will help you pack better for your next trip! These travel hacks for packing toiletries will hopefully help you avoid spills in your luggage…and save you some space in your bag, too.

#19 Travel Toiletry Hacks for Shampoo and Conditioner

One way to avoid any liquid shampoo and conditioner luggage incidents is to simply not pack it! Many hotels and Airbnb apartments provide shampoo and conditioner. And, if they don’t, you can always buy some at a local store when you get there.

That said, did you know that shampoo and condition come in bars just like soap? Well, you are now in on the secret! Using shampoo and conditioner bars – rather than packing bottled liquids – is an excellent travel packing hack that will ensure you don’t have spilled shampoo in your bag on arrival at your destination.

Pro Tip : Shampoo and conditioner are just one of the solid toiletries you can use on your trip. Other packings hacks for traveling without liquids are using toothpaste tabs and solid perfumes !

#20 All-in-One Toiletry Travel and Packing Hacks

What better way to save space than to use products with multiple uses? The all-in-one Dr. Bronner’s soaps are organic and certified Fair Trade products that are designed for multiple purposes. The soap can be used on body, face, hair and teeth…and also to clean dishes, clothes, floors, windows – and even the toilet – making it one of the best travel packing hacks of all!

Pro Tip : The Castille soap collection comes in a variety of scents and is available in liquid or bars .

#21 Liquids: The Best Packing Hacks for Travel

While eliminating liquids from your luggage is one of the top packing hacks for travel, if you are bringing liquids in your bag, we have a few travel hacks and tips on how to keep liquids from spilling inside your bag.

The best travel hacks for liquids is a 3-part process that includes plastic wrap, tape and a resealable bag. First, unscrew the top off the bottle and place a piece of plastic wrap over the top, then screw the top back on (over the top of the plastic wrap). Next, take a piece of tape and tape the flip lid shut. Finally, secure the bottles in resealable bags. By using the three-step method, suitcase spillage is highly unlikely!

Pro Tip : The bottles you pack in can make all of the difference! Liquid travel containers is not where you want to skimp on quality. Therefore, one of the best travel hacks for toiletries is to use refillable GoToob bottles that are specifically engineered for travel – and promise a spill-proof journey!

#22 Save Space in your Toiletry Bag when A Little Dab Will Do

One of the phenomenal travel hacks to save space in your toiletries case is to only bring as much product as you will actually use on your trip. Rather than packing larger bottles of face creams and foundation, pour a small amount into a contact lens case. Use more than one case if you need to…but just remember to use a contact case with screw top lids.

Pro Tip : Small 10ml bottles also work great for liquids that you will only need a little dab of during your vacation. They are inexpensive and reusable, too, making them one of the best travel hacks!

#23 Travel Size Items

When it comes to transporting liquids, one of the travel packing life hacks is to use refillable travel-size bottles. In fact, we think travel-size toiletries are the way to go in general when it comes to packing and carry-on hacks.

It is amazing how many products are made in a smaller, space-saving size. Some favorites are a travel-size hairbrush , travel-size toothpaste , travel-size deodorant and travel-size shaving cream . Products we don’t use – but that other travelers do – are mini-magnifying mirrors , travel-size hair straighteners and travel towels .

Pro Tip : Want one of our top travel hacks that saves money in the long run? When your travel-size toothpaste runs out, don’t throw it away! The tube can actually be refilled from a regular-size toothpaste tube. Just securely hold the openings together and squeeze from the larger tube into the travel sized tube!

#24 Travel Tips for Shaving Cream Alternatives

Using a travel-size shaving cream is not the only way to save space in your suitcase. One of the best travel packing tips and hacks is to not bring shaving cream at all! Instead, just lather up soap or use hair conditioner in place of shaving cream.

Pro Tip : The Schick Intuition razor is another travel gem – in that the shaving cream is right on the razor!

#25 Minimal Hair Products

While we love the innovative travel-size products that are available to travelers, the fewer you bring, the lighter your luggage. It can be tempting to pack a hair dryer, curling iron and straightener, but we don’t recommend it…even if they are all travel size!

First, check to see if your accommodations provide a hair dryer. Second, choose one low-maintenance hairstyle. This way, you can limit the number of hair tools and products you bring on your trip!

Pro Tip : In the case that your accommodations don’t have a blow dryer, rather than succumbing to packing a hairdryer, one of the travel life hacks is to pack a microfiber towel that can be used to help dry your hair more quickly. 

#26 Makeup: Packing for Vacation Hacks

Many minimalist travelers recommend leaving all makeup at home when taking a trip. While I have never been a heavy makeup wearer, I still travel with makeup – but I limit it to essentials only.

I pack one powder, two small brushes, a travel eyelash curler and mascara…and that is it. At the very least, limit your makeup bag to only one eyeliner, one eyeshadow, one mascara and one lipstick (and make sure they go with your capsule wardrobe color scheme!).

Pro Tip : Using makeup samples is one of the great traveling life hacks for trips! If you have collected any sample-size makeup in the months prior to your trip, select a few to use on your vacation!

#27 The Almighty Pill Box as a First Aid Kit

While a Weekly Pill Box is excellent for its intended purpose, it is also a great space-saving travel organizer! Instead of packing bottles of Just-in-Case medications, store each of the assorted meds in a different day of the week. For example, store pain reliever in Sunday, vitamins in Monday, cold meds in Tuesday and belly meds in Wednesday. Pill boxes are also one of the fantastic travel pack hacks for storing and organizing jewelry for your trip!

Pro Tip : For something a little more flexible than a pill box, use individual travel jars  and small 2×3-inch plastic resealable baggies to pack medications…and jewelry, too! Read more about what we pack in our first aid travel kit in our post, Ways to Stay Healthy While Traveling .

#28 Toiletry Life Hacks for Packing a Suitcase

One way to make packing toiletries so much easier is to invest in a Travel Toiletry Case that stays packed all the time! With a pre-packed toiletry case, all you need to do when it comes time to pack is grab the bag and go! Just starting out with traveling? This packaged toiletry case is great for beginners!

Pro Tip : Just remember to refill any used items when you return from each trip!

Carry On Hacks

On travel days, we seldom check bags – we each have carry-on-size travel backpacks and a day pack. To stay organized and efficient in airports, carry on luggage hacks are essential!

#29 Carry On Travel Hacks: Airport Security

No one likes a traveler who holds up the line at security, but there are a few packing hacks for carry on luggage that will get you through checkpoints in a flash.

First, if you are carrying liquids onto the plane, make sure they are in 3.4-ounce bottles (100ml) or smaller…and that they all fit into one quart-size resealable plastic bag. Next – and a key to being quick at security – when you pack your bag, place the bag of liquids in an easy to reach spot.

Electronics – especially laptops, but sometimes larger cameras and phones, which sometimes have to be removed when going through security – should also be placed in an easy-to-access part of your carry on luggage.

Pro Tip : Shoes often need to be removed, which is why I like to wear Slip On shoes or flip flops on travel days. However, if you are bringing boots on your trip, you will need to decide whether it is better to wear them to save space in your suitcase or pack them for a swifter pass through security.

#30 Packing Hacks: Carry On Entertainment

The best way to pass time on an airplane is with on-board entertainment, which is why planning your entertainment in advance is one of the best packing hacks for flying. Headphones and portable chargers are a must! 

Once I get settled in my seat, the first thing I do is create a list of movies to watch in-flight. Headphones , however, are essential to enjoying the flicks…so I always bring two pairs (just in case one fails me or gets lost).

On flights where there is no seat-back entertainment, be sure to bring your own entertainment. Make sure your phone is fully charged…and make a few song playlists or download apps in advance. Bring your charging cord (most seats now have USB ports) and a Portable Charger . 

If you like to read on planes (or trains or buses) a Kindle can be a real space-saver and one of the top vacation packing hacks. However, if you are like me and prefer the feel of paper books, then pick up one or two at a used bookstore or free community library…and then pass them along when you’re finished.

Pro Tip : Find out more of the specifics of what should be in your carry on luggage and our other in-flight tips in our blog post, Long Haul Flight Essentials .

#31 Only Hand Luggage Hacks

If you are trying to squeeze all of your items for your entire trip into a carry on, then one way to make a bit more room is to wear a fanny pack onto the plane. What makes it one of the best carry on packing hacks is that your fanny pack shouldn’t count as an extra bag – plus it keeps you hands-free! Besides that, it is a great place to store valuable items (like your passport and wallet), as well as items you want easy access to during the flight (like an lip balm , sleep mask and earplugs).

Pro Tip : Using a backpack instead of a suitcase will also keep you hands-free on travel days! Read more of the pros and cons of each style of luggage in our blog post, Backpack vs Suitcase . 

#32 Organizational Hand Luggage Packing Hacks

There is nothing more frustrating than when the plane is ready for take off…and you realize that your headphones and kindle are stowed in the overhead compartment (which now cannot be accessed until the captain has turned off the seatbelt sign).

To avoid the inconvenience, prepare ahead and pack a small on-board tote that contains your flight essentials, which can fit under the seat in front of you. Items I make sure to have close at hand are sanitizer , wet wipes , water, snacks, phone, headphones, sleep mask, earplugs and compression socks .

Pro Tip : One of the top carry on luggage packing hacks to use if you are checking luggage is to travel on board with a complete change of clothes…just in case your luggage (and clothing) gets lost en route to your destination . I also like to pack a fresh pair of underwear (that I can change into in the airport bathroom to start my trip off feeling fresh!) – as well as a toothbrush and toothpaste to use to freshen up after a long flight.

Miscellaneous Packing Hacks

Our final travel packing tips and hacks are some tricks that we have picked up over the years that make packing so much easier!

#33 Electronic Device Cable Organization

One of our suitcase life hacks is keeping our cables organized. Some of the essential electronics that we travel with are a mini extension cord (because the outlets are not always in convenient places!), a multi-port adapter (because there are multiple things to be charged!) and a portable charger that we carry with us while we are out exploring.

A good way to keep all these cords and electronics organized is with a Grid It board that keeps everything in place and easy to find! 

Pro Tip : For travelers who make frequent trips, an even easier way to stay organized is to purchase duplicate chargers and cables for all of your devices. Secure them on the Grid It – and always keep them packed so they are ready to go when you are ready to go!

#34 Cooking on Vacation

One of the reasons we love staying in Airbnb apartments is that we have access to our own kitchen where we can cook simple meals. That said, not all kitchens come fully equipped. If you plan on cooking during your trip, consider investing in a collapsible colander , a flexible cutting board and an multi-functional knife (but only if you are checking luggage). 

Pro Tip : In our travels, we have found that it is best to pack the spices that we love! To easily pack our spices, we use small resealable bags (the 2×3-inch baggies are the best!) rather than carrying bottles.

#35 Packing Hacks for Traveling as a Couple or with Friends

One thing that we have learned as a traveling couple is to communicate about our packing list. All of the items that can be shared – from lotion to a travel umbrella to a portable Wifi device – are divvied up evenly between us so that we are not carrying duplicates. Whether traveling as couples, friends or families, find out what items might be unnecessary and determine who will carry what.

Pro Tip : Packing Lists are gold! Keep a list of all the items you pack for a trip. When you return, take a few minutes to jot down notes on what you used and what you didn’t and adjust accordingly to make packing easier for future trips!

#36 Packing Hacks for International Travel

As we spend most of our time overseas, we have quite a few international travel hacks for packing. These tips aren’t necessarily travel hacks for packing light, but rather what to pack to make international travel a little bit easier. 

First, make sure you pack your passport and other travel documents in a safe place. We use a Passport Organizer that fits inside a zippered pocket inside our under-the-seat carry on luggage. 

We also think it is important to invest in a Mobile WiFi Hotspot so that you will have an internet connection from the moment you land. We use the GlocalMe device – which can be fitted with a SIM card or you can purchase data online ahead of your trip (the better way to go in our opinion!). 

Next, make sure that you have the right travel apps. Google Translate, Uber (or whatever ride hailing app is popular in the country you are visiting), Booking.com and Google Maps are the basic essentials. 

Bring (and use) a credit card that does not charge international transaction fees (we prefer the Chase Sapphire credit card). 

Pro Tip: We share heaps of tips for traveling from the United States to Europe in this article, How To Plan a Trip To Europe . 

#37 Best Packing Hack for Travel – Make a List! 

We have already touched on making a list as one of the top packing hacks for travel – but it is truly one of the easiest and most often overlooked hacks for organizing your suitcase. 

Start by making a list of what to pack for your next trip. Then, after the trip, reanalyze the list, eliminating the things you didn’t use – and then make a Master Packing List. For future travels, use your Master Packing List as a base for all of your trips. 

However, as each trip is unique with different climates and activities, it is best to take your list one step further and make an Itinerary of Outfits. On this list, note what outfit (or outfits) you will wear on each day of your trip based on your outlined trip itinerary. This way, you can be certain that you only pack clothes you intend to actually wear – saving you from over packing! 

Pro Tip : Our T rip Planning Printables Kit includes itinerary templates and everything you need to organize your trip! 

More Travel Tips and Hacks

Above, we featured our top travel tips for creative and easy packing hacks – but we have so many more travel hacks to save money! 

Cheap Flights

We use a combination of tricks to find the best fares on flights – and we share them all in our article How To Find Cheap Flights .

Best Hotels

Want to find the best hotels at the best prices? Don’t we all! Get there by using our travel hacks for Booking Cheap Hotels . 

Free Packing Checklist 

With our packing hacks for travel, you will be a packing pro in no time! Get started right away with your  FREE Packing Checklist!

Start planning your next trip ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page !

We Want To Know: What are your best travel packing hacks? Give us your tips and advice in the comments below!

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How to do Laundry while Traveling – 3 Options!

Packing , Packing Tips

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If you’re traveling for more than one or two weeks, it’s inevitable that you’ll have to do laundry on the road, especially if you want to pack light.

Whether you’re going on a one week trekking adventure, two week beach vacation, or 12 month round the world journey there’s usually easy access to clean clothes just around the corner. Find out how to do laundry while traveling with three easy options.

3 Ways To Do Laundry While Traveling

For long trips, you don’t want to have to pack more than you need, but you also don’t want to wear dirty clothing. The best middle ground is to wash your clothing while traveling. You can pack carryon only while still feeling clean and comfy. There are three main options for laundry when traveling.

Laundry Services

As a long term traveler, I count on the widely available services to do my laundry while traveling. You’d be surprised how readily available and cost effective laundry washing services are around the world.

From busy tourist towns like Cusco, Peru to small camps in Tanzania and backpacker cities like Bangkok ; it’s possible to find places that will wash your dirty laundry starting at rates for as low as $1 a kilo.

How your clothing is washed varies from place to place. Many will hand wash your clothes and some use machines. For the most part, your clothing is hung to dry so you can expect about a 24 hour turnaround time.

Inquire about rates and carefully note down what you gave them to avoid problems with missing items. If there’s a special item with specific instructions, let them know or hand wash it yourself.

Use a capsule wardrobe to pack light but create many outfits. Learn more in my guide !

Travel Laundry Liquid Soap |  Travel Laundry Clothesline Kit

Washing Machines

Many hostels and hotels have laundry room with coin operates machines making it a breeze to do laundry while traveling.

When traveling the USA, I choose hotels like Holiday Inn Express that have convenient laundry rooms for travelers. In Europe, Australia, and New Zealand the majority if hostels where I’ve stayed also offer basic washing and drying machines for backpackers. You should research your accommodation’s amenities before booking. For hostels, I use HostelWorld.com.

These accommodation options also tend to sell individual packs of laundry detergent and softener so that you don’t have to add extra weight to your bag.

If you’re on a short trip, pack a couple of single use detergent packs like these  Sinksuds packs  to get you through your travels. For longer travels, always buy as you go.

this is a step by step guide for  how to hand wash clothing when traveling

Hand Washing

A popular choice for budget travelers is hand washing and can be done no matter where you’re staying. This is where the fabrics you choose plays an important role as synthetics dry much quicker than comfortable cotton.

A universal sink plug such as the one from Muzitao  is essential so you can wash in any sink around the world.

To hang your clothes, pack a travel clothes line or a simple string can be used to dry your clothing indoors or outdoors. You can either pack your own  best travel laundry soap  or buy detergent locally. Otherwise shampoo, a bar of soap, or body wash does the job too.

Read about  How to Choose the Best Fabrics for Travel .

Scrubba Wash Bag

Perhaps the most popular hand washing option is the  Scrubba Wash Bag . It saves you money by allowing you to efficiently and effectively wash your clothes anytime, anywhere. This works especially well for adventurers getting off the beaten path with limited access to laundry facilities or those that would prefer the convenience of doing it themselves.

One reader says, “I have found it extremely useful and always take it with me. You can also use it for wet stuff like swimwear. It has little scrubby things and the best part is you don’t have to get your hands wet. If I am washing white stuff I let it soak in the bag in the sink for a couple of hours. It was such a good investment. I never use laundromats or laundry anywhere after having clothes ruined and lost.”

Another reader adds, “I have it and love it. I use it traveling and camping with my family. It gets my kids’ clothes clean, which says something. Use a strong, concentrated detergent (I prefer Allen’s Naturally liquid detergent). And bring a travel clothesline. I find it SOOO much easier and quicker than washing in the sink or bathtub.”

Just make sure you have the newest version. One reader warns, “I have the old model with the weaker plugs and it finally gave out and leaked after three years. The new one is much improved. I loved mine. It gets the clothes cleaner than I can in a sink and is so much more convenient. I just throw all of my dirty clothes in it to keep them separate and wash them as needed. It’s a great dry bag. It’s good for delicates at home too.”

Allurette Scrubba Wash Bag

For travelers with delicate clothing, try the Allurette Scrubba Wash Bag . While the original Scrubba Wash Bag works wonders for regular and technical clothing that needs a serious scrub down to get it clean, the Allurette is better suited for fabrics that require a soft hand wash.

When it comes to doing laundry while traveling, you can get creative when you’re on the road. Some wash their clothes in plastic bags, others in locally purchased buckets, and I personally like washing some items like travel underwear in my dive mask’s plastic case. You’d be surprised how long you can make your clothes last between washes when you’re on the road for a while. You really get to know yourself in a whole new light.

Bring an extra packing cube and dedicate it to your dirty laundry.

What are you tips on how to do laundry while traveling?

For more travel tips, please read:

• Which Packing Organizers Should I Choose?
• The Best Travel Backpack
• Top 20 Suitcase Recommendations
• Travel Experts Reveal the Best Carry-on Bags
• Money Belts and Anti-theft Travel Accessories
• Top 5 Travel Bags for Women

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Hope you enjoyed this post on doing laundry while traveling. Please share it with your friends on Facebook, Pinterest, and Twitter. Thanks for reading!

28 comments.

Double duty: I use giant two gallon zipper bags as packing cubes. Pack an extra zipper bag which can be used for washing clothes. Bonus: squeeze the air out of the zipper bag to create space in luggage. I sit on the bag to get all the air out. 🙂

Great packing hack Meg!

I take my clothing item (s) that needs to be washed in the shower with me: wash, rinse and roll in the towel I used to dry myself off.

Thanks for sharing how you manage to do laundry while you travel Edie! Happy travels!

This is what I do. The last time I went to Italy I brought the Scubba Wash Bag. I ended up leaving it behind because it was so bulky and cumbersome.

These ideas are very helpful! It’s not hard to do laundry along the way, but it can be a challenge to wrap your head around the task when there are already so many moving parts to trip planning. Having the methods laid out like this makes it easier to commit to packing fewer pieces of clothing with confidence! Thank you.

If laundering in my room, I ask for extra towels before doing laundry. When something is a little heavier, like pants or a sweater, I roll the washed item in a clean towel and gently squish it along the roll to get out more water. I then hang the item or use another clean towel on the luggage rack to dry flat. I find this extra step greatly improves drying time.

I will be traveling for 21 days to Venice, Barga, Rome then Greek Isles cruise. I have not been successful with the carryon tips however I am bringing tide travel size laundry detergent to freshen up the clothes once onboard the ship.

I use wool wash soap. It works great on fabrics besides wool and doesn’t require rinsing. The brand Euclan even comes with small single use packets. Another tip to speed up drying after wringing out clothes, wrap them in a towel and stand on the towel to push the water from the clothes into the towel.

Thanks for sharing your travel hack with us Bernie! 🙂

Try a Cetaphil gentle cleanser bar! Best stain remover I’ve ever used, but also does a great job on your face and skin as well. All purpose for certain! Connie

I time my hotels around laundry needs; ensure they offer coin op machines. I bring detergent sheets that are light and versatile. (e.g. Dizolve) that can be used for hand washing or machines. The hotel shampoos also work well for hand washing.

I use laundry bags as packing cubes so when it comes time to do laundry, I throw my delicates in them.

I love the coloured clothes pegs from the dollar store. When not used to dry clothes, I use them to mark & differentiate each family members’ towels.

Keep in mind that washing machines & dryers in some countries are significantly smaller than ones in North America. And drying times may take 3x to 5x in humid countries.

Some countries are accustomed to hanging clothes outdoors. Your clothes may end up smelling musty, like cigarette smoke, or pollution.

Hi Jessica, thank you for sharing how you like to laundry when you travel and all your great travel tips with us! Happy travels! ?

We tried hand-washing in Costa Rica and the humidity was so high the clothes never dried. Any suggestions?

Yes, humidity can be a huge issue. If there are fans available, try pointing them on your clothing. Otherwise, you may need to splurge for drying. Happy travels!

2 in 1 shampoos (shampoo + conditioner) are AMAZING for washing by hand: it leaves garments really soft and it’s extra gentle on delicates 🙂 get a cheap option and you’re sorted! 😉

OOOH GREAT TIP!!!!

Great tip- never considered this option!🤗

Shampoo is brilliant for getting marks off the inside of shirt/blouse collars.

we bring along travel packets of woolite to do laundry. You can get them on Amazon. And it’s gentle on fabric. Makes me happy to do laundry on our vacation. =)

Good idea! I’m sure the clothing feels and smells more like it’s had a proper laundry bath too 😉

I usually hand wash (mostly because of time constraints + laziness)…and then when I do “splurge” on a washing machine or laundry service, it feels soo luxurious 😉

Yes it’s nice to have a good balance and a “splurge” is always a good idea 🙂

I always wash by hand with a bar of soap. You know, if you place your wet clothes on a towel and then roll the towel up, once you unroll it, the clothes will be almost perfectly dry!

Do you use soap because you find it easier? I find using soap really helps target dirtier areas and makes it easier for me.

I use soap for both your reasons. I bought a bar of Fels brown laundry soap on Amazon and cut off a piece to fit a travel size soapdish. Another option (more expensive) is the washing bar from The Laundress. An added benefit is that the soap works really well to clean make-up brushes and sponges.

We find that doing laundry can be a fun activity on a trip. If you use a local coin-operated place, you get to meet locals. My husband still talks about the fun he had at a laundromat in Ushuia, Argentina.

Love laundry soap, it should be more popular 🙂 Love that regular activities can be extra fun while traveling!

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Top laundry hacks travellers love

Forget lugging around a suitcase weighed down with excess clothes. These travellers have discovered a secret that lets them travel light.

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Forget lugging around a bag weighed down with excess clothes. There’s a secret to slashing the size of your suitcase — doing laundry on the road.

And a few small additions to your packing list can save you time, hassle and expense when dealing with laundry while travelling.

From a simple plastic bag to good old fashioned velvet soap, Escape readers have shared the laundry-beating secrets in their luggage.

Here are their top laundry items you’ll want to consider popping on your packing list.

Pegless clothes line

Amazon has pegless clothes lines that have suction caps or hooks on the end. They're great for drying your clothes in the hotel bathroom. Just remember to run the fan while drying to speed up the process. And it's less than $10.

Inflatable coat hangers

I always pack a few blow-up coat hangers as they keep blouses and shirts front and back a distance away from one another and makes drying much quicker especially with T-shirts. - Sue Morris

The right clothes

When travelling to hot humid climates, pack moisture wicking clothing as it draws the sweat away from your body, so clothing doesn’t look wet and heavy. Also pack a foldable plastic bucket and small plastic clothes hanger with pegs attached, so you can wash clothing each night. This fabric dries quickly in the shower overnight. - Shan Scott

Eucalyptus oil 

Pack a bottle of eucalyptus oil. Half a teaspoon added to a basin of water and a white bar soap is good for stain removal and leaves clothes smelling fresh. It’s also handy for insect bites and a few drops added to hot water for steam inhalation when suffering a cold. - Miriam Watters

Stain remover

Before I go on a holiday, I always fill up a small 50ml plastic bottle of liquid stain remover (like Vanish), and pack it in my shower bag. I find a little goes a long way and has let me wear the article again, without the stain. I would not go on holidays without it. - Janet Kendrigan

Shampoo and conditioner

Sachets of shampoo and conditioner make excellent laundry liquid and, obviously, take up no room whatsoever. For clothes that cannot be washed while travelling, I have found that it is a good idea to turn them inside out so that when unpacking, it is easy to see what needs to be washed. - Bev Rodrigues

A plastic bag

Rather than worrying about dodgy sink plugs or bringing my own, I simply use a strong plastic bag, placing it into the sink for hand washing. If you leave something soaking and need to use the sink you can hang it on the taps for a while. The bigger and stronger the bag used the easier it is for washing. - Julie Lawson

Old school soap 

Good old fashioned Velvet soap. It beats tiny little soaps and it’s the best for washing laundry. - Jan Gould

Laundry tub

When cruising we always pack a lightweight silicone collapsible tub to wash larger items like jeans that can’t be washed in a hand basin. It can be placed in the shower recess to keep overflowing water contained. - L. Lee

My best holiday laundry tip is to pack a large chamois so that when you rinse your clothes you can roll them in the chamois to remove excess. - Val Ainge

I always pack a small 100ml bottle of Eucalyptus Woolmix laundry liquid to wash my knickers in hotel bathroom. You only need a small squirt and little rinsing as it doesn’t suds up like others.- Ros King

The Scrubba 

We have been on eight cruises in the past few years and always found laundering a problem. A couple of years ago, I did some researching and discovered the Scrubba — a small scrubbing bag with an old fashioned wash board mechanism built in to it. It takes up no space at all and is extremely light. You can’t do a big wash at a time but if you do it every day (takes 3-5 minutes), it is great. We can do three singlets, three underwear and three pairs of socks or three casual shirts at a time. All it takes four or five small drops of detergent. If you also take a travel clothes line and some small light pegs, you can string them out on the balcony (when at sea) and they will dry in no time. - Ken Seib

Soap in an onion bag

When we are travelling we always pack two cakes of laundry soap, each inside an onion bag. This can be used for hand washing in the shower or handbasin any time. - Marie Hobson

Didn't pack anything special? Try these laundry hacks 

Do it in the shower.

If you are staying somewhere without a laundry, do your washing by hand every night when you have a shower. Put the clothes in after you have rinsed and then you can stomp on them which is just like a machine. Beats kneeling over a tub or shower base for a long time and getting a sore back. - Colleen Webber

Sleep on it

On a tour in Africa I found that it was very humid in my safari lodge. I’d washed my cargo pants and a few other things in the shower and partially dried them with the hair-dryer before dinner. When I got back to the room that night, however, my laundry was very damp. I didn’t want to have it still wet in my bag all next day. Thinking a bit, I had a brainwave. I put the laundry in the game lodge dressing gown, and put the lot in bed. Then I slept on the dressing gown. Presto; the clothes were dry by morning and the dressing gown kept the sheets and me dry! - Jeanette McInnes

For more great holiday deals and savings, check out these coupons from Wotif , Redballoon and Luxury Escapes .

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How to Do Laundry When Traveling

This article was originally published on our site Nomad Paradise. As part of a rebrand, we are publishing all our travel packing and tips content in one place for you to enjoy - The Travel Method. For world cuisine and recipes, you can keep visiting Nomad Paradise.

Learn how to do laundry when traveling with these smart tips and techniques. Washing your clothes when traveling may not be something you want to do, but it can save space and keep your luggage free of dirty clothes.

These laundry travel hacks include items you can buy and savvy techniques for when you’ve arrived at your destination.

Use a Travel Laundry Wash Bag

Travel wash bags are an all-in-one solution to doing laundry that you can pack directly into your suitcase. They’re a simple solution for doing laundry, which you can do from the comfort of your hotel room or apartment.

Take Advantage of Hotel Laundry Services

If the hotel you’re staying in offers a laundry service, find out more. The service usually includes washing, drying, hanging, ironing, and/or folding clothes. Some hotels offer dry cleaning services, as well.

It may not be worth the price, depending on where you’re staying. However, for a convenient solution, it’s worth finding out what they can offer you. Often, these services can have your laundry ready within twenty-four hours.

Find a Laundromat

It’s simple to use Google Maps to find the nearest laundromat in your area. You can wash your dirty laundry in a laundromat alone or with some help.

The facility typically offers self-service and drying machines. In some laundromats, you can pay for a drop-off laundry service where another person washes, dries, irons, and folds your clothes. All you have to do is pick it back up.

The do-it-yourself model of laundromat is cheaper, as often you’ll only need coins to pay for detergent and the machines. However, in cash economies and less developed countries, laundry services can be very inexpensive.

In Southeast Asia and South America, particularly, you can find affordable drop-off and pick-up laundry services with relative ease.

Hand Wash Your Clothes in the Sink or a Bathtub

Hand-washing your dirty laundry in the apartment hotel sink or bathtub could be worth the time. It’s a budget solution if the hotel laundry service is too expensive or if the laundromats are too far.

The first thing you should do is plug the drain in the sink. There are many items you can use to do this, but we’d recommend investing in a sink stopper.

Then, fill the sink or tub with warm water and soak your dirty or wet clothes for a few minutes. Drain them, rinse them, and do the same thing again.

Hand wash each piece of clothing with laundry soap or a few drops of laundry detergent. You can pack a travel-sized laundry detergent before you leave for your destination.

Finally, rinse each piece of clothing until the detergent is gone, and wring any excess water off. Hang them and let them dry. It’s really easy, and it won’t take too much of your time.

A portable travel clothesline is a great choice to travel with if you’re looking for a simple solution.

Book an Airbnb or Apartment with a Washing Machine

If your stay is long-term, an Airbnb or a local apartment service is often a much better and far more affordable option than a hotel.

As Airbnbs are usually furbished apartments, there’s a high chance they’ll come with washing and laundry equipment included. Check the listing before you book to make sure (you can add this to your search filter.) The same applies for an apartment.

Nearly always, these services will be included as part of the overall price, free of additional charge. Naturally, this is a great way to experience an area or city as a local would.

Pack Clothes that Require Less Washing

Pack fabrics that dry quickly and don’t need to be washed that often. This way, they will stay clean and fresh for longer, and you may not even need to do laundry. They include merino wool shirts, denim, travel underwear, and quick-drying and stain-resistant pants.

You could also consider clothes that are easier to wash, such as natural fibers like cotton, and aim to pack as many clothes made from these fibers as possible.

Use a Laundry Service App

This solution may take a little research, but there are plenty of apps to book laundry services, depending on which country you visit. Many of them will even collect your washing and return it.

Different apps, however, operate in different countries. A good tip is to search ‘best laundry app Indonesia,’ naturally replacing ‘Indonesia’ with the country you’re visiting, and see what you can find.

Often, apps will require a phone number for activation. So be sure to pick up a local SIM from the airport or a telecom shop if you’re serious about using them, or check if your service provider operates in the country you’re visiting.

Doing laundry when traveling doesn’t have to be stressful. There are plenty of hacks, services, and apps in every country to get your clothes clean, ironed, and folded in no time.

You Might Also Like to Read

• Everything You Need to Pack for Your Next Vacation
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Author: Dale

Dale Johnson is a content creator from the UK. He has traveled full-time for over three years and to over 30 countries and writes on a number of travel-themed topics, including travel packing tips and the latest gear.

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So fresh and so clean: 8 tips for doing laundry during extended trips

Update: Some offers mentioned below are no longer available. View the current offers here .

Laundry is a chore, but at least most people have a familiar method for getting it done at home. But, when you're on a trip, laundry can become a much bigger hassle. Sure, people all around the world do laundry, but it can sometimes be difficult to get laundry done as a traveler at a reasonable cost. Trust me, I know since I've now lived on the road for more than two years and have to consider where and how to do laundry approximately every ten days.

Related: The 7 Best Starter Travel Credit Cards

So, by necessity my husband JT and I have come up with various tips and tricks for doing laundry on the road, as well as for reducing how frequently we need to do laundry. Whether you're simply looking to get through an extended vacation or you live on the road , here are some tips for dealing with laundry while traveling.

Bring your own detergent and supplies

Although you can find laundry detergent in most cities, it's generally not sold in small quantities or in easy-to-pack containers. So, having your own detergent serves multiple purposes:

• If you've used the detergent before, you'll know it won't bother your skin and that it will effectively clean your clothing
• You won't have to purchase detergent each time you need it

For these reasons, we travel with laundry detergent pods. You'll want to pack the powder pods instead of the liquid pods though, since these are easier to clean up when they burst. And, speaking of bursting, I recommend storing these pods in a small watertight dry bag so that if they do burst they'll be contained. The dry bag also keeps the pods dry, which can be useful in humid conditions.

You may also want to pack a few dryer sheets, which can also serve a secondary purpose of making your luggage smell fresh. We also pack a laundry bag, both for holding dirty clothes and for transporting them to wherever we're washing them.

Related: Top 7 things to pack for your next Airbnb stay

Book lodging with a washer

The easiest way to manage laundry while traveling is to book lodging that has a washer and/or dryer onsite. Airbnb makes it easy to filter homes by those that have a washer and/or dryer, and most hotels list self-serve guest laundry as an amenity if they offer it.

However, the quality, cost and modernness of the washer and/or dryer may vary greatly. As with Wi-Fi , I've found that asking questions about the washer and/or dryer can be an important step if you plan to do laundry during your stay -- especially if you're staying at a rental property.

Also, note that the machines may not have instructions or settings in English. In this case, you can use Google Translate's camera function to translate in real-time. The washer may also not function like you'd normally expect. For example, I'd never heard of a manual washing machine -- much less used one -- before our Airbnb host in French Polynesia left one out for us.

And, many hotels and rentals may not have an electric dryer and instead rely on drying racks . So, make sure to allow enough time for your laundry to dry.

Related: 12 tips for scoring the perfect Airbnb

Go to a laundromat

Laundromats are common in some regions, and difficult to find in others. If you find a laundromat and decide to use it, bring change since many don't have functioning change machines and there may not be businesses nearby that are open or willing to provide change. I also recommend bringing detergent, as many don't sell or provide detergent.

Be sure to translate directions for operating the machines and paying, even if you assume you know how they work. Once I've started the washer, I usually go to a cafe nearby, work on my laptop at the laundromat or take a walk around the neighborhood. Some laundromats even offer Wi-Fi now.

All in, doing laundry at a laundromat usually takes me two to three hours -- although I've lost much longer on a couple occasions due to closed locations, long transit times, broken machines, trouble getting change and many other issues.

Find a laundry service

In some cities, you may be able to find a laundromat that will do your laundry for you. These laundromats will usually charge per load or by weight. Some require payment upfront while others will take payment once the clothing is returned. If you pay upfront, be sure to keep the receipt.

The pick-up time after drop off usually ranges from a couple hours to a couple days. However, I've encountered quoted times of up to one week, so be sure to inquire when your laundry will be done before handing it over.

I've also used services where you drop off your clothing and the service returns the clean clothing to your hotel's front desk. In some cities, you may also be able to find a service that will both pick up and drop off your laundry.

However, while doing my own laundry at laundromats that offer a drop-off, pick-up service, I've noticed that they often dry everything on high -- so if you're picky about how your clothing is dried, you may want to do your laundry yourself.

Use the hotel's service

Most hotels offer laundry service and in some cases you may get a piece or two per day as a benefit of the room type you booked, your elite status or the resort fee . But hotels usually charge per piece, which can make it expensive to wash more than a couple items.

Some hotels do offer reasonable prices for a load or charge by weight. I've also encountered multiple Airbnb hosts who were very willing to earn some extra money by washing laundry for guests.

Related: TPG readers reveal their favorite credit card and elite status perks

A fall-back if you only need to wash a few items, or you can't find any other reasonable options, is to hand wash your clothing. Until recently, we'd only washed shorts and underwear by hand while traveling. But, we recently hand washed and air dried all of our clothing for a month in the Dominican Republic and although time consuming, it worked surprisingly well.

If you're going to hand wash items , you have three main options: sink, shower or portable wash bag . After washing and rinsing the items, I recommend spreading the items one by one (or in small groups) on a bath towel. Then roll the towel and twist it -- this will dry the items surprisingly well. Finally, you'll need to find a place to hang your items. Some hotels or rental homes may have a drying rack or outdoor area designated for drying clothing.

Otherwise, look for places in your room or on your balcony where you can hang items -- just be sure not to start a fire like TPG Editor at Large Zach Honig did once .

Related: Pack these 6 things to be a more eco-friendly traveler

Wear quick-dry clothing

Some clothing takes much longer to dry than others. Cotton and denim tend to dry slowly, while synthetic materials tend to dry quickly. Even some inexpensive brands may dry quickly.

Some brands advertise quick-drying shirts, pants and underwear, but be wary of thick waistbands which tend to dry slowly. And, you'll find many materials that aren't advertised as quick drying, such as silk and golf attire, tend to dry quickly. However, the only true way to know whether a particular piece of clothing will dry quickly is to try it.

Related: Dirty Laundry Management Tips to Tide You Over

Invest in Merino wool clothing

Merino wool is an excellent fabric for travel clothing for many reasons: it's quick drying, doesn't easily hold scents and can be found in many different warmth levels and weights. So, Merino wool can be worn longer before starting to smell and it's usually easy to hand wash and air dry.

Before investing in my first Merino wool shirt, I doubted whether it would be worth the $60 I paid when it was on sale. But, the shirt quickly became my favorite travel shirt until the fabric started fraying after slightly more than a year of use.

Clothing line Icebreaker offers a one-year warranty and I'd purchased the shirt using the Chase Sapphire Reserve, so I was able to get a refund of the originally purchase price after filing a claim with Chase . Each merino wool shirt I've bought since has developed a fabric or stitching issue within two years -- so I always purchase from a brand like Icebreaker that has a warranty and use a credit card that offers extended warranty purchase protection.

Related: The best credit cards for extended warranties

Bottom line

I prefer either booking lodging that has access to a washer onsite or making my way to a nearby laundromat. But, when we asked the TPG Lounge for advice on handling dirty laundry while traveling , we found that some readers take extreme measures such as renting clothing or simply discarding dirty clothing . So, clearly different laundry management techniques work for different travelers.

If you have other laundry tips, please drop them in the comments section below.

I always travel with a laundry hamper, and it makes packing up at the end of a trip so much easier

• I travel for work and leisure about twice a month, and I always pack a laundry hamper.
• My collapsible, mesh basket fits on top of my clothes in my bag, so it doesn't take up much space.
• The hamper makes my hotel room more organized and packing at the end of the trip easier.

As a frequent traveler who's jetting off at least twice a month, I'm always looking for ways to make my arrival and departure days easier.

One travel hack I've started using is taking a collapsible mesh laundry hamper with me on trips. 

When my basket isn't filled with dirty clothes, it lays flat on top of my clothes in my suitcase. Because it's not bulky or heavy , it doesn't take away from the weight or space my suitcase allows, which is great for longer trips. 

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Here's why I never leave for a trip without one. 

It makes it's super easy to get organized in my hotel room 

Once I check in at a hotel and find my room, I fully unpack my suitcase. Then I roll my bag under my bed or tuck it into a corner. My final step is opening my laundry hamper and putting it in a corner, closet, or bathroom, depending on how the room is set up. 

Doing this helps keep my room looking clean throughout the stay. 

I hate living out of a suitcase for trips because it often means designating a "clean" side and a "dirty" side. Having a laundry basket means my dirty clothes don't have to be scattered on an extra bed, haphazardly placed into a suitcase, or piled into an empty chair. 

I like being able to find the things I need in my hotel room without shuffling through miniature piles of laundry. I've also taken laundry baskets on cruise ships and riverboats to help stay organized in smaller rooms (often under 250 square feet). 

When my trip is over, packing up is easy

The night before I leave a hotel, I take a few minutes to empty my laundry basket on the bed and fold up my clothes to put them back in my suitcase . By this point, pretty much all of my clothes are dirty, so it doesn't matter what side they go on. 

Then I collapse the laundry basket and pack it on top of my clothes again.

When the morning comes, all I have to do is toss my pajamas and bathroom essentials in, and I'm ready to check out. 

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7 Essential Hacks for Making Laundry a Breeze When You’re Traveling

Packing is probably the most dreaded part of traveling — that is, except for the inundation of laundry while you’re on the road. We’re with you; we’d rather be sipping mojitos on the beach (or skiing down our favorite peak, hiking a new trail , or whatever else a trip entails) than bent over the washing machine in a dank laundry room any day. Though no one wants to think about laundry or any associated chores of #adulting while OOO , the time will likely come when you’ll need frantically remove a giant pasta sauce stain or dig out that last pair of undies from the crevices of your suitcase. Whether you’re posted up in a waterfront resort or glamping in your cozy dream Airbnb , here are the quickest, simplest hacks to keep your clothes wearable while you’re away — and to save you time from doing double loads when you get back from your trip and just want to marathon nap.

1. Plan out your clothes. First things first: To make the laundry part as hassle-free as possible, it’s best to anticipate your outfits (yes, this pertains to everyone, not just fashion influencers ) and get strategic about materials when you’re packing. Try to lean toward polyester, rayon, and any other fabrics that are lighter and less wrinkle-prone if you’re headed to a warm destination . Or if you’ll need to layer up where you’re going, pack cashmeres and knits because these will hold up best in a suitcase , no matter how many hours the journey itself takes. When all else fails, throw a few pairs of leggings into your bag to be safe. Spandex and nylon workout wear hardly wrinkles, is meant to be hung out to dry and allow you to skip the dryer step altogether, and can take you anywhere from the plane to brunch . Plus, this may give you the extra incentive you need to work out while traveling .

2. Go with the roll tactic. Laundry starts long before the initial “whish” of the washer turning on. But the better you take care of your clothes when packing them, the easier the laundering process is. Master the roll technique: Roll pants, jeans, tees, skirts, and sweaters upward from the cuff or seam at the bottom, tucking the arms of a shirt or sweater into the roll as you go. This is the best way to attempt to keep the wrinkles out — not to mention you’ll save a ton of space in your luggage, so you can hop off the plane and head straight to the first attraction you have planned without having to iron each piece you brought.

3. Create your own steamer. So the rolls didn’t save you, and you need to bust out the steamer. If you don’t have a travel steamer , don’t panic. There’s the old “stick the hanging garment in a steamy shower” trick, but sometimes even that’s not enough for those hardcore crumples. If your hotel or bed-and-breakfast has a coffee maker or teapot, try filling it up with water, and then letting the steam rise up the bottom of the pants, dress, top, or skirt until the wrinkles melt away. Or if you’re really in a pinch, plug in a hair dryer and from a few inches away, run it over the piece of clothing on a flat surface, and even spritz on a DIY wrinkle spray . You can stick the concoction of just water, white vinegar, and a tiny bit of hair conditioner in a travel shampoo bottle and be good to go.

4. Hand-wash for the win. Sure, it’s tempting to pack 37 pairs of underwear on a week-long trip so you never have to do laundry, but you also want to conserve space in your bag for shoes, so there needs to be a happy medium. You won’t want to buy a whole huge bottle of detergent just to throw it away either, and you probably don’t want to risk detergent pods exploding in your toiletry bag, so pick up travel size detergent packets or DIY your own laundry soap if you’re feeling fancy. Completely forgot about laundry products before you left? It’s easy to hand-wash your bathing suits , underwear, lingerie , pajamas , and any delicate tops by filling the sink basin up with water and a splash of shampoo or body wash from a travel-size bottle and soaking for 20 minutes. These delicate items can easily be laid out or hung to dry on towel racks in the bathroom — or better yet, right over those strong hotel air conditioner/heaters for a lightning-fast hot or cool dry, depending on the season.

5. Anticipate stains with just a few ingredients. Some of our go-to stain remedies have fewer than three ingredients, and you can easily bring them with you in advance or find them in any drugstore. A coffee stain comes right out with some white vinegar (the wrinkle releaser strikes again!) along with dish soap and water. Spilled some bronzer on your going-out top ? Try dabbing it with shaving cream or spraying it with a bit of hairspray. Or, if you red-wined a little too hard on your trip, the stain can be erased with a few pinches of salt followed by some boiling water and a quick warm wash if you have access to a machine.

6. Combine dark and light loads without worry. There’s no way you’ll want to separate colors from whites when you’re trying to get in a much-deserved travel journaling or meditation session on vacay. To keep colors crisp, pack a few color catching sheets in your carry-on or DIY with baking soda and scrap fabric (this will catch the dye that runs off colored garments and prevent it from seeping into lighter clothes). Or, a half cup of either vinegar or salt helps set colors to prevent running, especially in new clothes.

7. When in doubt, wear jeans . Your best bet for avoiding doing piles of laundry while on vacation is wearing fabrics like denim. Of course underwear and workout gear need a wash after each wear, but denim experts say that jeans and other pants only need a wash every about every few wears and can survive quite a long time on spot cleaning. BRB — rolling up every pair of jeans we own and stuffing them in a suitcase.

Have some tried-and-true vacation laundry tricks of your own? Or better yet, laundry fails so we don’t repeat your mistakes? Share them with us on Twitter @BritandCo .

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

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Travel Hacks: Doing Laundry

I sort hurriedly through my closet, hunting for clothes for work. It’s been a busy week and I’ve ignored laundry. Thankfully, I have the incredible convenience of a washer and dryer, and in twenty minutes, no one will even know that I was so messy! I hide my busy week beneath the scent of dryer sheets and don’t’ even think twice about thanking the incredible machine that washed out the mud from my bike ride home.

But while on the road, we realize how many conveniences we take for granted, and laundry is one! Here’s a few travel hacks on keeping your clothes clean on the road. (After all, you never know when you might happen upon a village elder, country leader or a royal: I’ve ran into 2/3!)

1) Bring a tiny container of laundry detergent and dryer sheets and a strong string, or thin rope.

2) Makes sure it’s a TINY container of detergent or you might get it confiscated at an airport. Sometimes, things like laundry detergent don’t look so universal around the world, and you don’t want to end up washing your clothes with syrup.

3) Don’t worry too much if you can’t identify laundry detergent at the store, because shampoo contains approximately the same ingredients and works in much the same way and is far easier to act out via “travelers charades” to explain what you want.

4) As you’re unlikely to happen upon a dryer, those dryer sheets are to keep your bag and the clothes within smelling fresh, even when they’re definitely NOT fresh.

5) Step back in time (but without the washboard!) If you have a sink, you have a washing-machine. Plug the drain, fill it with hot water, and put your clothes in (not all at once, it’s going to take some time). Add some detergent (or shampoo, or that syrup you thought was detergent) and have fun with it! If you happen to have a pocket-washboard, then kudos for hipster points, but if not, just try to create bubbles and scrub as best as you can.

6) If you’re in a hostel and sink space is limited, the shower is also an option. Bring some clothes in with you stomp on them as if they’re grapes and you’re making wine.

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7) Drying space is a hot commodity. If you’re lucky, you’ll only need to do laundry when traveling in desert areas with a clothes drying time of 3.5 minutes (about the same time it takes for your lips and nose to dry out in the Sahara). But if you’re not in the desert, use what you have: the space between bunk beds in a hostel, between two trees outside, a window, or zig-zag that string around a small room. Just be careful not to lose your favorite pair of underwear to the lovely city of Berlin due to an unexpected gust of wind.

8) Whatever you do, don’t put damp clothes in your bag/backpack. Bad things will happen. Trust me.

9) Never be afraid to ask about washer-dryer options in hostels or when couch-surfing. Most couch-surfing hosts are more than happy to help with this, themselves knowing the toll of a long journey, and the delight of such creature comforts.

10) Last of all, make it fun! Necessity is indeed the mother of invention, so get creative!

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• Travel Clothes

How to Hand Wash Clothes When You Travel

Published May 11, 2022

Written by:

Nick Hilden

Pacific Northwest native Nick Hilden is a travel and culture writer whose work has appeared in Afar, the Daily Beast,...

Fred Perrotta

Co-founder, tortuga.

Fred Perrotta is the co-founder and CEO of Tortuga. His first backpacking trip to Europe inspired him to start the...

The Tortuga Promise

At Tortuga, our mission is to make travel easier. Our advice and recommendations are based on years of travel experience. We only recommend products that we use on our own travels.

Table of Contents

The trick to packing light on longer trips is to do laundry. For a two-week trip, would you rather bring two weeks’ worth of clothes or pack half as much stuff and do laundry once? What if you’re traveling for a month or longer? Learning how to hand wash clothes can cut down on the amount of stuff you need to pack.

By doing laundry, you can pack light but still look and smell good. In this article, we’ll cover how to hand wash your clothes (the easiest option) and a few other ways to do your laundry on the road. With the occasional hand wash or visit to the wash and fold, you can pack a fraction of the clothing in your travel backpack .

Pack for trips of one week or more without checking a bag.

• Thick comfortable straps
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• Backed by our Worldwide Warranty

How to Hand Wash Clothes in a Sink

The simplest option is to hand wash your clothes. On shorter trips, you can hand wash your socks, underwear, and other small items to avoid having to pack too many.

Before getting started, have your supplies ready. What you need:

• Dirty clothes
• Sink or tub
• Mild detergent or dishwashing liquid

We’ll cover some additional, optional tools later in this article. Hand washing is ideal for a few items per “load.” The more clothes you wash, the more drying space you have to find.

Step 1: Separate Colors

As with any load of laundry, you should separate white clothes from colored clothes to prevent colors from bleeding.

To avoid having to do two loads of laundry, I don’t pack anything white. No white undershirts, no tighty whities, and no white athletic socks.

Step 2: Fill the Sink with Warm, Soapy Water

Fill the sink or tub with warm water. Steve Boorstein , host of the national radio show The Clothing Doctor suggests, “85 degrees, just warm to the touch.” Using water that is too hot could burn your hands or make colors bleed. 

While filling the sink with water, add a few drops of a mild detergent or dishwashing liquid. You can use a sink stopper to plug the sink, but I don’t bother packing one. If I stay in an Airbnb apartment, the owner often has a sink stopper. Otherwise, I just use whatever is lying around. 

For soap , I recommend the liquid version of Dr. Bronner’s Magic Soap . The soap is concentrated, so a few drops will be enough to hand wash your clothes. Dr. Bronner’s is all-natural and can replace most of the liquids you might carry, including body wash, shampoo, and shaving cream.

Step 3: Do a Spin Cycle

Add your clothes to the soapy water and gently swirl them around the sink. Scrub dirtier clothes by rubbing the fabric against itself. Apply more detergent directly to the dirtiest spots and give them an extra scrub.

Step 4: Soak Your Clothes

After scrubbing, allow the clothes to soak. If the water looks dirty already, you can drain it and refill the sink with clean, soapy water.

Five minutes of soaking should be enough for most clothes. For dirtier “loads,” let clothes soak for up to thirty minutes.

Step 5: Rinse Out the Soap

Drain the soapy water from the sink. Rinse clothes directly under the running tap to remove any remaining detergent. Once the water runs clear instead of cloudy, without any soapy bubbles, you know that the item has been rinsed thoroughly.

How to Dry Hand Washed Clothes

After you’ve rinsed your clothes, you can do some quick prep work to help them dry faster.

Wring as much water out of each item as possible. But don’t leave your clothes in twists and knots. Re-shape your clothes so that they dry faster, keep their shape, and don’t wrinkle as badly. Exposing more of your clothes’ surface area to the air will help them dry faster.

For slower-drying fabrics like cotton or wool, you can further expedite the drying process:

• Lay the item out flat on a towel (full-sized or travel towels will work).
• Tightly roll up the towel to wring even more water from your clothes.
• Unroll the towel and re-shape the clothing item as described earlier. 

Hang your clothes to dry. The more air circulating near them, the better. Hanging clothes outdoors or near a fan or window will help them dry faster. The worst environment for drying is stagnant, humid air.

Most quick-dry performance fabrics will dry in a few hours. Wool items should dry overnight. Cotton takes the longest to dry. Some travelers recommend packing a clothing line to hang clothes to dry. I don’t do much laundry in each load, so I just find a few open spots in my room to hang them. You can hang clothes from hangers (if provided), over the back over chairs, or from doorknobs.

Travel Laundry Tips

Use a wash and fold.

One of my favorite travel hacks is getting my laundry done at the wash and fold. A wash and fold is anywhere you drop off dirty laundry and pick up clean, neatly folded laundry a day or two later.

In many cases, you can get clean laundry the next day for the price of a coffee.

Unlike a laundromat, you don’t have to find quarters or detergent or stand around waiting for your laundry. You’re traveling, you don’t want to waste hours watching your clothes spin around.

Instead, drop your clothes off at the wash and fold.

I’ve used the wash and fold a bunch of times on longer trips in Asia and have never regretted it.

Separate Clean and Dirty Clothes

As you travel, keep your clean clothes separated from your dirty clothes. Separating your clothes will keep the clean ones clean and ensure you remember which ones are clean and which are dirty.

An organized travel bag like the Tortuga Travel Backpack is one way to separate your clothes. Unlike a duffel bag or other single-compartment bag, the Travel Backpack has interior pockets for separation and organization.

If you want to go even further, get a set of packing cubes for additional organization. Get a set with a mesh top panel so that you can see what’s inside and if it’s clean and ready to wear.

The Best Fabrics for Travel

Pack travel clothes made of materials that either dry quickly or that don’t require regular washing.

Merino wool shirts, underwear, and the right pair of quick-drying, stain-resistant travel pants can mean traveling for days with a remarkably small amount of clothing.

Here are some of the best fabrics for staying clean and fresh while traveling:

Merino Wool

Merino wool is a travel all-star because it looks good, packs well, and fights odors naturally. Hand washing, as described above, works well for merino which can go a few wears between washes but is also delicate.

Yes, denim jeans are a surprisingly good travel option. Why? Because you never have to wash jeans.

Levi’s Jeans CEO, Chip Bergh, argues that machine-washing jeans is completely unnecessary . Most denim experts agree that a pair of jeans only need to be washed every two to six months or “when they smell,” depending on the kind of abuse you put them through.

Wear your jeans every day of your trip if you want. Then wash them when you get home. The CEO of Levis said it’s okay.

Antimicrobial Underwear

Oftentimes, your underwear is the only piece of clothing that you have to wash after every use. You’ll want to have plenty of clean underwear to feel your best every day.

Most people try to solve this problem by packing more bras and moew underwear, but that’s not the carry-on-friendly solution. Instead of packing by the dozen, invest in just 3-4 pairs of travel underwear and wash all of them whenever you’re running low.

When looking for good travel underwear, keep your eyes peeled for these four features:

• Antimicrobial fabric
• Moisture wicking
• Quick drying
• Comfortable fit

The antimicrobial fabric keeps your underwear smelling fresh while the wicking keeps you dry. You’ll want a pair that dries quickly so you can wash and dry your laundry overnight.

Dark or Patterned Fabrics

Patterned fabrics and dark colors are great because they tend to hide stains. If you’re going to get a travel shirt or pair of pants, get low-maintenance, dark clothing that can handle the inevitable slips, spills, and stumbles that happen all the time when you’re on the go.

How to Remove Stains

The easiest way to remove stains is by using the right tools. Tide to Go Instant Stain Remover Pens are excellent for removing stains on the go and are cheap, light, and TSA compliant.

If you don’t have a stain remover pen, use warm water and normal soap. Be gentle. You’re trying to tease the stain out of the fabric, not push it deeper. Make short, quick motions as if you’re tugging the offending stain out. This is no time for elbow grease. 

You can cut the amount of clothes you pack in half by doing a bit of laundry on your trip. For starters, try hand washing socks and underwear in the sink. Do a small load every few days at night. Everything should be clean and dry by the morning.

For longer trips or larger clothing items, visit the wash and fold. They’ll do all the work and deliver you washed, dryer, and folded clothes in just one day.

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Pacific Northwest native Nick Hilden is a travel and culture writer whose work has appeared in Afar, the Daily Beast, the Los Angeles Times, Men’s Health, Fodor’s, Popular Science, Scientific American, Thrillist, Vice, Runner’s World, and many, many more. He’s carried a Tortuga Outbreaker through year after year of traveling to places like Turkey, Tunisia, Thailand, Vietnam, Spain, Serbia, France, Italy, Greece, Mexico, all across the U.S., and beyond. You can follow his travels via Instagram @nick.hilden.

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Choosing the Perfect College: Everything You Need to Know

Common college freshmen fears: how to overcome them, how to fix it when brightness is not changing on windows 10, motherboard chipset: what it is and what to look for, brain hemispheres and learning: everything you need to know, samsung galaxy tips and tricks you need to know, top ten marketing tips for business owners with limited capital, how to successfully get a higher education while working a full-time job, ways to help and improve stuttering issues, elevating user experience with address autocomplete api, best travel hack: why i always pack a laundry basket.

One of the best travel hacks that often goes overlooked is the simple addition of a laundry basket to your packing checklist. While it may seem odd at first, packing a laundry basket for your trip can be a game-changer for several reasons.

Firstly, a laundry basket can help with staying organized while traveling. Instead of scattering dirty clothes around your accommodation, you can centralize all your laundry in one spot. This not only keeps your living space tidy but also makes it easier to keep track of which items need to be washed.

Secondly, when it comes time to do laundry on the go, whether in a laundromat or using hotel services, having everything in one basket makes transportation much simpler. Without a laundry basket, you might find yourself stuffing clothes into bags or backpacks, increasing the chance of losing small items like socks and underwear.

Moreover, a collapsible laundry basket hardly takes up any room in your luggage. Many fold down flat and can be tucked away into smaller spaces. Upon arrival at your destination, you can easily set it up and have an instant solution to keep clothes organized.

Additionally, a laundry basket provides ancillary benefits. It can serve as an impromptu cooler for beach days if lined with a garbage bag and some ice packs or used to carry groceries if you stay in a vacation rental and cook meals in.

Lastly, separating dirty laundry from clean clothes is crucial in maintaining hygiene and ensuring that any unwelcome smells don’t permeate the rest of your belongings. By designating a specific place for dirty clothes — your brought-along laundry basket — you ensure fresher luggage upon returning home.

Overall, the usefulness and versatility of bringing along a laundry basket on travels cannot be overstated; it is truly one of the best travel hacks for those looking to stay organized and efficient on their journeys.

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This $11 Dirty Clothes Travel Hack Has Completely Changed the Way I Pack

By Allison Bowsher

Allison Bowsher

Contributor

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For some of us, deciding what to pack when taking a trip can feel just as stressful as the actual time in transit. Planning outfits, assembling the right chargers , finding travel-friendly toiletries and being prepared for the unexpected ( layovers, you are the worst ) can be exhausting. For those who are pro-packers (or anyone who wants to be), utilizing travel hacks like packing cubes and garment bags can help you squeeze a few extra items into your suitcase and avoid unnecessary wrinkles. Traveling is great, but looking like you’ve been traveling isn’t, you know?

One of my favorite traveling hacks? A dirty clothes travel laundry bag .

It’s a simple idea that can totally change the way you pack, unpack and then repack for the journey home. If you’ve ever cringed as you throw your dirty socks and underwear into your suitcase — right on top of your clean clothes — then you can see the appeal of a dirty clothes bag. As you wear clothes throughout your trip, simply toss them into the bag.

To make things even easier, you can order the Homest XL Wash Me Travel Laundry Bag . For just $10.98, you’ll get a 2-pack of these packable travel bags.

Homest XL Wash Me Travel Laundry Bag

At a glance:.

• Material: Made from rip-stop, extra thick nylon that has double-stitched seams
• Design: Available in several bright colors that make the bags easy to spot
• Size: At 28” by 40”, the bags are large enough to hold 3 to 4 loads of laundry at once
• Closure: Locking drawstring helps keep dirty clothes and their many smells contained
• Uses: In addition to a travel laundry bag, the Homest bags can be used to store bedding, pillows, off-season clothes, and other lightweight goods

The Travel Hack I Wish I Knew Sooner

As a parent and someone who frequently travels to very hot states (Arizona and Florida, because why have horrific dry heat when you can also have horrific humidity?), my once shiny and new suitcases are now often filled with sweaty, damp, and food-filled clothes from big and small people. When traveling, the best way to protect clean clothes is to listen to the great Dexter Holland and keep ‘em separated. The Homest XL Wash Me Travel Laundry Bag provides a useful and secure place to store dirty laundry while traveling, and it also keeps dirty, smelly clothes separate from clean, stank-free clothes in your suitcase.

Sold in several brightly colored options, the Homest XL Wash Me Travel Laundry Bag is a must-have for long trips. Sold in single or double packs, the packable laundry bags can be used to sort and gently compress dirty clothes at the end of a trip, providing a convenient way to keep clothes separate when sharing a suitcase or when you’re making multiple stops and don’t want to empty your luggage at each destination. Once you’ve started to get your travel-on, and as a result, your sweat-on, dirty clothes can be placed in one of the Homest bags and kept separate from the rest of your items, keeping your clean clothes and luggage smelling fresh.

At $11 for two generously sized laundry bags, it’s tough to beat the quality and versatility of the Homest XL Wash Me Travel Laundry Bag. They are great for at-home use and provide an invaluable barrier between dirty and clean clothes inside a suitcase. Again, traveling is great, but looking AND smelling like you’ve been traveling isn’t great.

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Allison spent four years as the Editor and head writer for Much.com, aka the Canadian MTV. During her time at Much, Allison conducted more than 100 on-camera interviews with some of the biggest names…

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Minimalist Travel: 20 Genius Tips for Normal People to Pack Light

This post may contain affiliate links for your convenience. That means that if you make a purchase, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.  Read more here .

Are you looking to travel light and avoid the headache of packing and lugging around too much stuff? If so, this guide to minimalist travel is for you! From packing smart to choosing the right luggage, here are the best minimalist packing and travel tips to help make your trip a breeze.

So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to start planning your next minimalist vacation today!

What does “minimalist travel” mean?

Minimalist travel means applying the principles of minimalism to your trip, packing light, and traveling with only the essentials. It can also mean being intentional with how you spend your time, money, and energy on your vacation.

Consider this the complete guide on how to pack like a minimalist, whether you’re a family who wants to pack minimally for your next trip or an extreme minimalist who wants to travel around the world with only a backpack!

After you read these minimalist packing tips, you’ll be able to decide how much to bring and what to leave off your list to pack less and have more fun.

The Best Minimalist Packing Tips

1. bring carry-on only.

This minimalist packing tip is number one for a reason. It’s the simplest way to travel lighter! By bringing only a carry-on bag, you have no choice but to downsize your list and pack minimally.

After all, you can’t bring everything when you’re limited to such a small space.

Not only do you avoid the extra fees for checked baggage, but it also helps ensure your luggage doesn’t get lost! Trying to find and get your stuff back would be a headache; if you don’t, it could cost you a pretty penny to replace everything.

Given that claims for stranded baggage have jumped as much as 30% since 2019, it’s a good idea to keep luggage close at hand to reduce the likelihood that it gets lost or mishandled.

2. Choose the right minimalist luggage

One of the most critical minimalist travel tips is to choose the right luggage. You want something durable, easy to carry, and lightweight – the lighter, the better!

Airline standards for carry-on are 21 inches or 55 cm max height but check with your airline before you fly to ensure you comply with their requirements.

Keeping these factors in mind, here are a few popular minimalist luggage options:

• Samsonite Base Boost Upright Hand Luggage (our luggage, in Black)
• Tortuga Travel Backpack
• Rockland Melbourne Hardside Luggage (30+ colors)

3. Keep a minimal list

It can be tempting to over-pack when you’re going on a trip but resist the urge! One of the best minimalist travel tips is to make a packing list and then edit it until you’re only bringing the essentials.

Start by brainstorming everything you think you might need for your trip. Then, go through each item and ask yourself:  “Do I really need this?”  You’d be surprised how much you can eliminate from your list of things to pack when you get honest about what is and isn’t essential.

One of my favorite minimalist packing hacks is to use the Google Keep app to create my list.

I create separate lists for each family member and check them off as I pack. Make sure to keep the list instead of deleting it because you can repurpose the same list to make sure you don’t forget anything when you’re packing to go home!

4. Limit electronics

Electronics are often heavy, so limiting yourself to 1-2 devices can lighten the load. Luckily, for most people, a smartphone is all you need to perform most of your daily tasks.

However, if you are traveling for work, you might need to bring a lightweight laptop and charger. Likewise, a small camera, lens, and a few accessories might be on the must-bring list for serious photographers or videographers.

5. Travel adaptors

If you’re relying on your smartphone for communication and navigation, bring a travel adaptor to keep it charged. Make sure you choose the correct adaptor for the location you are traveling.

6. Minimize your toiletries

For shorter trips, you don’t need to bring an entire bottle of shampoo or body wash when a smaller amount will do. You can save a lot of luggage space by choosing travel-sized toiletries or decanting your liquids into smaller bottles.

The standard travel container size for liquids, gels, and aerosols is 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters. Place all of your liquid containers in a transparent and resealable plastic bag of up to 1 liter in size.

If your hotel or Airbnb includes these items or they can easily be purchased locally, then you might not need to bring any at all.

7. 2-in-1 or multipurpose soap

Bringing a small bar or bottle of multipurpose soap can save you a lot of space in your luggage by cutting down on how many toiletries you need to bring.

We used a drugstore 2-in-1 shampoo and body wash for our kids, but I have minimalist friends who swear by Dr. Bronner’s castile soap , which has up to 18 uses, including shampoo, body wash, laundry detergent, dish soap, and more!

8. Go for simple matches and fabrics

If you already have a  minimalist wardrobe , then you know one of the best ways to reduce the total number of clothing items you own is to choose versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched to create a variety of different looks.

The same principle applies to packing for minimalist travel.

Choose clothing items made from simple fabrics that can be easily washed and opt for neutral colors that can be paired together so you can easily swap tops and bottoms.

Don’t forget to keep the climate in mind when making your choices. Cotton and linen are breathable and excellent for warmer temperatures, while wool and fleece can keep you warm in cooler weather. Synthetics are more resistant to wrinkles. 

Take all of these factors into consideration when you are packing!

9. Wear your heaviest clothes on the plane

Wearing your heaviest clothes on the plane will save you a lot of space in your suitcase. Bulky coats, heavy boots, and big hats can quickly eat up all the room in your luggage, so it’s best to put them on your body instead.

This minimalist travel habit has the added benefit of keeping you warm on the plane. Airlines keep cabin temperatures on the low side, which purportedly reduces the risk of passengers fainting, so you’ll be less likely to feel the chill.

10. Two pairs of shoes

When packing minimal for travel, it’s important to remember that you can usually get away with only bringing two pairs of shoes, at maximum.

One pair should be comfortable walking shoes, and the other should be more casual that can be dressed up or down.  Extreme minimalist  travelers can wear one pair of shoes while globetrotting for years, so two isn’t that big of a stretch!

Check out this extreme minimalist travel video – it’s unbelievable!

11. minimalist folding hacks

When trying to fit a lot into a small space, it’s essential to utilize every inch. Rather than lying items flat in your suitcase, try standing them up on their side.

This will help you make the most of the limited space and keep everything more organized; read the complete guide on  how to fold clothes vertically here .

You could also try “ranger rolling” your clothes to save space and reduce wrinkles.

Ranger rolling is a military folding technique that’s found its way into mainstream use because it’s so practical; it’s accomplished by folding clothes into thirds and then rolling them from bottom to top.

12. Use packing cubes

Packing cubes are a minimalist traveler’s best friend. By compartmentalizing everything in your suitcase, you can make the most of the space and keep your belongings organized. Not to mention, it makes unpacking a breeze.

This minimalist travel hack is a lifesaver if you’re a frequent traveler.

13. Dirty laundry bag hack

This is one of my favorite minimalist packing tips! Particularly if you travel with kids who are messy eaters like mine, it’s helpful to be able to keep soiled or stinky clothing apart from the rest.

In that case, bring a laundry bag like this one along with you. They are lightweight and fold up easily to store in your suitcase, taking up barely any space. When clothes get stinky or dirty, you can plop them in the bag to wash at your leisure and keep them separate from the clean clothes until it’s time to return.

We took one of the largest laundry bags from our set with us and only filled it up about halfway. Which brings me to the next point on this list…

14. Wash clothes in the sink

When my minimalist family of 4 traveled to Spain for two weeks, I packed half the amount of clothes, KNOWING that I would need to do some laundry while we were there.

The Airbnb amenity list informed us there was on-site laundry, but when we got there, we found there wasn’t any laundry detergent actually to wash our clothes. This was  no problemo  for us because I used another of my favorite minimalist travel hacks, which is to wash clothes in the sink, after which I hung them on the balcony to dry.

While I went low-maintenance and used dish soap that our Airbnb provided, you could also bring your own in a small bottle.

15. Experiences over souvenirs

It’s like the popular  minimalist quote  says: “ Collect memories, not objects .”

Instead of buying a bunch of cheap tchotchkes that will end up in the back of a drawer or cluttering up your bookshelf, spend your money on unique experiences. For example, go zip-lining through the rainforest or buy tickets to take the kids to the local zoo or aquarium.

After all, experiences make the best souvenirs!

Have stories to tell, not stuff to show. – Unknown

16. Save money by cooking yourself

This minimalist travel tip is to help you save money on food. Eating out can be expensive when traveling, so the more you cook and eat at home, the more money you will save!

Most of the time, when we travel, we pick a location with a kitchen we can cook in, so that we can eat two meals each day at home. This allows us to save money and splurge on one excellent dining-out experience every day – which is essential to us as eating good food is one of our top priorities when traveling!

We prepared for this trip by  doing a no-spend challenge  and keeping our budget on track.

✈️ Want to travel, but you’re short on cash? If you have trouble saving money, grab this FREE 2-page budget planner to help you spend less and save more. You can also read this guide on the best tips and ideas for budgeting like a minimalist here .

17. Portable charger

If you’re going off-grid or might find yourself in situations where you don’t have access to electrical outlets to charge your devices for a while, you might consider taking a portable charger with you.

This lightweight device can be a lifesaver, especially if you rely on your phone for GPS; just remember to keep it charged up before you go!

18. Minimalist travel with kids

If you’re traveling with kids, it helps to pick a place to stay with amenities you need for feeding, travel, and sleep.

While our kids are older, we did appreciate that our Airbnb had strollers, car seats, Pack’ N Plays, high chairs, and other family-friendly items that would make traveling with kids easier. (You can find a list of such amenities on the website or app listing.)

We did bring our own waterproof and foldable picnic blanket for the beach, but our host provided sun umbrellas, sand toys, and chairs to enjoy the beach to the fullest without needing to bring or buy these bulky items ourselves.

READ MORE: 10 Minimalism with Kids Tips That Can Save Your Motherhood

19. Pack a few medications

No matter where you’re traveling, it’s a good idea to pack some medications and first-aid items in case of an emergency. We packed a few band-aids, acid reflux tablets, pain relievers, etc.

20. Downsize your to-do list

One of the best things about minimalist travel is that it encourages you to consider what’s important to you and your loved ones. When material possessions do not bog you down, you can focus on experiences and making memories.

While it might be tempting to try and pack your schedule with a million different activities, it’s often better to choose a few key experiences you really want to have and savor them.

Downsizing your to-do list will help you be more present and better appreciate your vacation. It gives you space to be intentional with how you spend your time, reduces stress, and allows you to slow down.

When it comes to minimalist travel, less is  definitely  more !

Minimalist Packing Lists + Essentials

I’ll let you in on a dirty little secret: there’s  no such thing  as a one-size-fits-all minimalist packing list because minimalist travel essentials vary widely from person to person and trip to trip.

What one minimalist traveler dubs an essential on their must-pack list might be completely disregarded by someone else.

Please keep that in mind as you read through this list of ideas for packing light.

We consider this an ultralight packing list that still includes everything we need to be comfortable traveling as a minimalist family of 4 for two weeks in Europe with carry-on luggage only. This is NOT an extreme minimalist packing list, but more of a guide to minimal packing for normal people. 🙂

You can also watch the pack with me video linked below from our trip to see us in action.

Minimalist Packing List for Women (2 Weeks)

Here is the exact packing list I used for our two-week trip to Valencia, Spain; it’s a summer packing list because it was mid-July when we traveled there.

The next time we travel in cold weather, I will update this blog post with a winter packing list!

• 1 pair of linen pants
• 1 light linen jacket
• 3 bottoms (2 skirts, 1 pair of shorts)
• 7 pairs of underwear
• 1 bra (strapless, nude color)
• 1 pair of sunglasses
• 1 pair of socks
• 2 pairs of shoes (one pair of flats, one pair of waterproof sandals )
• 1 bathing suit
• sunscreen ( Shiseido )
• 1 pair of pajamas
• contacts + glasses
• 2 ponytail holders
• travel-sized moisturizer
• travel toothpaste
• eyebrow pencil + shadow
• lip balm (Aquaphor)

Minimalist Packing List for Men (2 Weeks)

• 1 light hoodie jacket
• 5 pairs of underwear
• 1 pair of swim trucks
• 2 pairs of shoes (sandals + sneakers)
• 5 pairs of socks
• travel hair spray + creme

Minimalist Kids Packing List (2 Weeks)

• 1 pair of pants
• 1 light jacket
• 4 bottoms (shorts)
• 5 tops (T-shirts)
• 1 bathing suit (bottom + sun shirt)
• 1 pair of goggles
• 2 pairs of shoes (flip flops + sneakers)
• 3 pairs of socks
• kids sunscreen
• 2-in-1 shampoo + body wash

Our Minimalist Travel Essentials

• 1 laundry bag (to hold dirty laundry)
• packing cubes
• travel adaptor
• portable charger
• facemasks x 8 (may be required to board airplane)
• medicine (acid reflux tablets, medicinal tea, etc)
• waterproof picnic blanket
• 1 extra large beach towel
• smartphone (I have the iPhone XS Max in Rose Gold )
• camera + accessories (optional)

Final thoughts about minimalist traveling

Packing light doesn’t mean you have to skimp on the essentials – in fact, minimalist travelers often find that they enjoy their trips more because they’re not lugging around tons of stuff in a heavy suitcase or cluttering up their hotel room.

Following these minimalist packing and travel tips, you can learn how to pack smart and travel lightly without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

Do you have a minimalist travel tip to share? Drop it in the comments section below; you might help another aspiring minimalist in the future!

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Laundry Hacks That Will Leave Your Clothes Smelling As Fresh As Ever

S ome people seem to have pleasantly-scented auras but it's not always because of personal care products. Yep, it could be coming from their clothes. Washing and drying laundry more mindfully keeps things smelling as fresh as ever and others notice the difference. But for many, doing laundry is a dreaded, monotonous task that offers little enjoyment. With larger families, it can seem like never-ending drudgery. There can be overflowing hampers, dirty clothes, and towels laying all over the place, creating unpleasant-looking sights with offensive odors. Those smells develop for many reasons, from splattered oil to moisture that breeds mold, mildew, and bacteria.

These creative, smart hacks aren't just about adding fragranced products into the washer and dryer. The latter certainly works, but other tips are just good habits to get into. But there are also out-of-the-box ideas worth trying and guess what: They work pretty well and some are interesting enough to make doing laundry fun. Okay, that might be pushing it, but give some of these a try to see just how long the fresh scent on your clothing lasts.

Separate The Smelliest Stuff In Hampers Or Trash Bags

Pajamas worn for a few nights might not smell, but gasoline-stained work clothes will. Tossing those in with the rest of the laundry is counterproductive because the odors can spread to other clothing as well as the hampers. There should already be several of these containers to sort things by color and fabric weight, and a third can be added for smelly stuff. Just spritz on an antimicrobial spray after it's emptied to keep it fresh and sanitized.

If there's no room for another hamper in the laundry room, just use scented trash bags. These can be kept in bedroom closets or another room until the clothes can be laundered. Make sure to tie them securely closed so the odors won't seep out. If your hampers are made of wicker, those same trash bags can be used as liners to prevent the smells from getting absorbed into the natural material.

Avoid Overloading The Washing Machine

It's common practice to fill up washing machines beyond their recommended capacities in the interest of saving time. But when there are too many items in the drum, there's less room for them to move around. And since there isn't enough water circulating or friction between the pieces, much of the dirt and odors don't break down and stay where they are. Do laundry in smaller batches to ensure all of the clothes are thoroughly cleaned.

Overloading the machine with more detergent than needed for a load is also a mistake. This can leave residue on everything, including the machine's working parts. And when extra detergent is left on clothes when damp, a persistent, sour smell can develop that doesn't get eliminated when they are dried. The right hack here is to only fill liquid or powdered detergent up to the line in the cap or scoop. When using laundry pods, never drop in more than the recommended amount on the label.

Don't Leave Worn Clothes Lying Around

Worn clothes are frequently found on bathroom floors, laundry room floors, and other places but that's not where they belong. No judgment here: It's easy to forget when you have other things on your mind. But they can start to smell and if they're damp, that moisture can quickly get into carpeting, comforters, and other fabrics. Those will also need to be cleaned as the distinct, musty smell of mildew only worsens with time.

When it's not possible to wash these things promptly, hang them up to prevent mold and bacteria from spreading. Clotheslines are best because more of the fabric is exposed to the air than when garments are bunched up on hooks. And there's no free pass for washing them quickly if they're left sitting in the machine for too long before going into the dryer. When that happens, they won't have that just-washed, fresh smell any longer and the whole load will probably need to be washed again.

Don't Bury Workout Clothes And Bathing Suits In Hampers

Gym clothes can be foul-smelling while and after being worn because they're made from synthetic fabrics designed to wick away moisture. That's great for a high-intensity workout in the sun and heat but all of the sweat, bacteria, and oil get trapped inside the material. Bathing suits have the same problem but also absorb salt water and chlorine residue. 

It's easy to forget about gym clothes and bathing suits that are buried in the bottoms of hampers too. But when they aren't attended to quickly, it can be nearly impossible to completely remove the odors from those fabrics and nearby ones that the smells transfer to. The materials can repel germs at first, but over time, they bond with the molecules in the fabrics and might never smell fresh again. Make sure to rinse these well in cold water and allow them to dry after wearing if they aren't going to make it to the washing machine fairly quickly.

Try A Bit Of Baking Soda

Baking soda is a multi-use product that works wonders in kitchens but it also comes in handy on laundry days. Its scientific name is sodium bicarbonate and it's a natural substance. And since this white, inexpensive powder is alkaline, it works exceptionally well on acidic smells that come from things like cigarette smoke and spilled milk. And unlike fragrances, it doesn't merely cover up smells, it absorbs and eliminates them.

For hand-washing smelly laundry items, add ½ a cup of the powder to a bucket and fill it with warm water. Add the soiled clothes, push them to the bottom, and agitate the water with your hands or a stick. Wait a few hours and rinse with gentle soap and water. 

Baking soda can also be added right into a washing machine. Sprinkle ½ a cup on top of the clothes in the machine and use the normal amount of detergent. Before washing, baking soda can also be sprinkled onto soiled items in hampers to prevent odors from building up.

Pour In Some Vinegar

Another common, budget-friendly household product that deserves to come out of the kitchen and into the laundry room is vinegar . This might seem like an odd choice because it has such a strong smell. But it quickly bonds with other molecules and helps rinse them away. Vinegar is acetic acid and it neutralizes bad smells and eliminates bacteria; it even loosens up dirt that can leave lingering odors.

Soak hand-wash only clothes in a cup of vinegar mixed with a gallon of water for 30 minutes before washing. To use vinegar in a washing machine, add ½ a cup to the regular amount of detergent. Pour it into the detergent dispensing cup and not right on the clothing. Vinegar removes chemical smells from new clothes too, so try adding it to a load of those to make them smell fresh from the start and for the foreseeable future.

Consider Using Ammonia

Household ammonia also has a pungent odor that evaporates quickly. It's a common ingredient found in kitchen and bathroom cleaning products, too. The high alkalinity allows it to tackle chemical bonds in proteins, oils, and grease so it removes stains and their odors. Ammonia is also safer to use in the laundry than bleach because it won't affect colored fabrics.

Be careful when using ammonia to remove laundry odors because of its strong fumes. Open a window, turn on a fan, and wear gloves to protect your hands. And never mix it with bleach or laundry products that contain bleach. 

To remove tough odors from laundry, combine the same amounts of ammonia, bleach-free laundry detergent, and water in a sink or bucket. Let it soak for half an hour, and wash as usual. The other option is to add ½ a cup into the washer with detergent and run a hot or warm cycle. 

Buy Laundry Scent Beads

Scented laundry detergents and regular fabric softeners might not be strong enough to completely remove tough laundry smells but you can give them a boost with laundry beads. These products are sold by brands like Downy and dissolve in water, releasing lasting scents into fabrics. The pearls have fragrances inside that smell like lavender, vanilla bean, amber, and other lovely aromas. There are also ones with odor-defense technology formulated to actually neutralize odors in clothes as you wear them after washing.

These fragrance boosters are not substitutes for laundry detergent. But it makes sense to use an unscented one with the beads (also called laundry pearls) instead of mixing two different scents and getting an odd-smelling result. And don't put the beads in the detergent dispenser. Just toss them into the washing machine drum before adding laundry. Use them sparingly, because going overboard with them could clog the drain. 

Air-Dry Certain Things

Laundry that is dried outside on a clothesline can smell amazingly fresh and clean when it's removed quickly enough. There are many other benefits with this too, like not having to run the dryer on hot days, lower energy costs, and the sun's natural ability to kill bacteria. Plus, a retractable clothesline or folding rotating rack can make setup quick and easy.

First, only air dry laundry outside on days when no rain is expected and the humidity levels aren't high, then wipe down the clothesline before hanging anything. Don't overload the line, and allow enough space in between each piece for air circulation. Hang shirts and dresses upside down to avoid noticeable clothespin dents and hang dark clothes in a shady spot to prevent fading from the sun's rays. Heavier things like jeans and sweats take the longest and can end up stiff, so these are often better served in dryers.

Clean The Washing Machine

If these hacks don't seem to be working, the root of the problem could be a neglected washing machine. Sure, they might seem sanitary because they clean laundry, but product buildup, hard water residue, and moisture can make them unfit for service. All of that nasty stuff can get into the laundry and regular washing and drying won't leave the clothes smelling fresh.

The fastest way to clean these appliances is with bleach. If your washer has a self-cleaning hot water cycle, pour ½ a cup of bleach into the detergent dispenser. If not, run the empty washer through a regular hot water cycle with an extra rinse cycle after. To prevent smells from developing, do this once a month and wipe the gaskets and seals down from time to time. The door should also be left open after the clothes are removed to let the inside dry out in between loads.

Use Essential Oils

Fragrant essential oils are commonly found in laundry products and there's no reason why you can't choose your own scents to leave clothes smelling as fresh as ever. They are extracted from plants, are chemical-free, and can smell better than artificial scents. But since they're oily by nature, there can be staining if they're poured right onto clothing. It's much better to add a few drops to a wool dryer ball because these fragrances are highly concentrated. Essential oil drops can also be added right into a container of unscented liquid laundry detergent or dripped into the machine's dispenser before running a cycle.

The kind of essential oil chosen depends on personal preference. Some might go for invigorating peppermint for workout wear, while others prefer relaxing lavender for towels and bed linens. Bergamot, lemon, and rose are other good choices. After the dryer buzzes, you'll enjoy the lingering, fresh scent on your clothing.

Put Scented Pillowcases In The Dryer

The cost of dryer sheets can add up and many people don't like using them because they are made with plastics and chemicals. A scented pillowcase is a sustainable alternative, plus the fragrances can be switched out for each load. A standard-sized case works best because it will take up less room than a larger one and there's less wasted space inside of it. To add scent, put in cotton balls soaked in essential oils and toss in fresh herbs. Fruit peels and spices are also options; a bit of orange or cinnamon sticks work well.

Then, secure the end with a hair band to keep everything contained. You can also sew on buttons or pieces of Velcro as closures. Or, you can place a balled-up piece of aluminum foil inside the pillowcase – sounds strange, but it will reduce static just like a dryer sheet. These cases can also be used as temporary hampers for smelly clothes and can be washed together with those when you're ready.

Make Homemade Dryer Sheets

If you don't want to go the scented pillowcase route, try soaking pieces of old, clean material in fabric softener to make homemade dryer sheets. The best things to use for this are free of dyes and lint. Old, cut-up bed sheets and white tees work beautifully.

To make these DIY sheets, pour a cup of fabric softener into a mason jar or other lidded glass container. Cut the material into dryer-sheet-sized pieces and add them to the liquid. Then, close the lid and shake until the fabric is soaked. Pull each piece out, lay them flat to dry, and rinse out and dry the jar. The dried sheets can be stored right inside the jar, and you can use one per load. The best thing is that they can be resoaked and used repeatedly over time. If you prefer not to use fabric softener, try a 3:1 ratio of hair conditioner and vinegar or a cup of vinegar and a few drops of essential oil.

Make Sure That Laundered Items Are Completely Dry

Many people have done this at some point in time and it's an easy way to make clothes smell anything but fresh: putting them away when they're damp. Dryer cycles don't always remove all of the moisture but users sometimes don't notice lingering wet spots. It's a common mistake; sometimes certain items are completely dry while others are damp. The pieces then get folded up and the moisture remains, creating breeding grounds for mold and mildew.  Or, a shirt may be dry in some spots but not others. Remove each item separately, feel for any dampness, and put them back in for another cycle if necessary. 

And if the dryer hasn't been doing its job and completely drying your clothes, check the settings to ensure that the right one is being used. Also, be mindful that you aren't overflowing the dryer, preventing enough circulation or movement for loads to dry. Then, make sure you thoroughly clean the removable lint filter and the housing around it next.  If neither helps, the problem could be related to the machine's moisture sensor, outside vent hose, or energy source, or it may be time to get a new one.

Sprinkle In Epsom Salt

This final hack is a pretty surprising one. Although it's typically added to bathwater to ease muscle pains and help people relax, adding Epsom salt to the washer  with your clothes makes them smell fresher and feel softer for longer. It is particularly effective on damp and sweaty items and can be used as a laundry detergent booster. As a natural antiseptic, it fights bacteria and also absorbs smells. Dissolve ½ a cup in water before adding it to the dispensing cup and run a regular cycle -- adding more for extra-large loads.   

The salt crystals can also be used to make homemade, all-natural laundry beads. Combine some with essential oil, mix well, and add a tablespoon with the detergent. Store the leftover scented Epsom salt in an airtight container. Epsom salt is safe to use on most fabrics but don't use it with delicate materials that could get damaged.

Read this next: How To Get Rid Of Static Cling In Your Laundry

Claudia Looi

Touring the Top 10 Moscow Metro Stations

By Claudia Looi 2 Comments

Komsomolskaya metro station looks like a museum. It has vaulted ceilings and baroque decor.

Hidden underground, in the heart of Moscow, are historical and architectural treasures of Russia. These are Soviet-era creations – the metro stations of Moscow.

Our guide Maria introduced these elaborate metro stations as “the palaces for the people.” Built between 1937 and 1955, each station holds its own history and stories. Stalin had the idea of building beautiful underground spaces that the masses could enjoy. They would look like museums, art centers, concert halls, palaces and churches. Each would have a different theme. None would be alike.

The two-hour private tour was with a former Intourist tour guide named Maria. Maria lived in Moscow all her life and through the communist era of 60s to 90s. She has been a tour guide for more than 30 years. Being in her 60s, she moved rather quickly for her age. We traveled and crammed with Maria and other Muscovites on the metro to visit 10 different metro stations.

Arrow showing the direction of metro line 1 and 2

Moscow subways are very clean

To Maria, every street, metro and building told a story. I couldn’t keep up with her stories. I don’t remember most of what she said because I was just thrilled being in Moscow.   Added to that, she spilled out so many Russian words and names, which to one who can’t read Cyrillic, sounded so foreign and could be easily forgotten.

The metro tour was the first part of our all day tour of Moscow with Maria. Here are the stations we visited:

1. Komsomolskaya Metro Station  is the most beautiful of them all. Painted yellow and decorated with chandeliers, gold leaves and semi precious stones, the station looks like a stately museum. And possibly decorated like a palace. I saw Komsomolskaya first, before the rest of the stations upon arrival in Moscow by train from St. Petersburg.

2. Revolution Square Metro Station (Ploshchad Revolyutsii) has marble arches and 72 bronze sculptures designed by Alexey Dushkin. The marble arches are flanked by the bronze sculptures. If you look closely you will see passersby touching the bronze dog's nose. Legend has it that good luck comes to those who touch the dog's nose.

Touch the dog's nose for good luck. At the Revolution Square station

Revolution Square Metro Station

3. Arbatskaya Metro Station served as a shelter during the Soviet-era. It is one of the largest and the deepest metro stations in Moscow.

Arbatskaya Metro Station

4. Biblioteka Imeni Lenina Metro Station was built in 1935 and named after the Russian State Library. It is located near the library and has a big mosaic portrait of Lenin and yellow ceramic tiles on the track walls.

Lenin's portrait at the Biblioteka Imeni Lenina Metro Station

5. Kievskaya Metro Station was one of the first to be completed in Moscow. Named after the capital city of Ukraine by Kiev-born, Nikita Khruschev, Stalin's successor.

Kievskaya Metro Station

6. Novoslobodskaya Metro Station  was built in 1952. It has 32 stained glass murals with brass borders.

Novoslobodskaya metro station

7. Kurskaya Metro Station was one of the first few to be built in Moscow in 1938. It has ceiling panels and artwork showing Soviet leadership, Soviet lifestyle and political power. It has a dome with patriotic slogans decorated with red stars representing the Soviet's World War II Hall of Fame. Kurskaya Metro Station is a must-visit station in Moscow.

Ceiling panel and artworks at Kurskaya Metro Station

8. Mayakovskaya Metro Station built in 1938. It was named after Russian poet Vladmir Mayakovsky. This is one of the most beautiful metro stations in the world with 34 mosaics painted by Alexander Deyneka.

Mayakovskaya station

One of the over 30 ceiling mosaics in Mayakovskaya metro station

9. Belorusskaya Metro Station is named after the people of Belarus. In the picture below, there are statues of 3 members of the Partisan Resistance in Belarus during World War II. The statues were sculpted by Sergei Orlov, S. Rabinovich and I. Slonim.

10. Teatralnaya Metro Station (Theatre Metro Station) is located near the Bolshoi Theatre.

Teatralnaya Metro Station decorated with porcelain figures .

Taking the metro's escalator at the end of the tour with Maria the tour guide.

Have you visited the Moscow Metro? Leave your comment below.

January 15, 2017 at 8:17 am

An excellent read! Thanks for much for sharing the Russian metro system with us. We're heading to Moscow in April and exploring the metro stations were on our list and after reading your post, I'm even more excited to go visit them. Thanks again 🙂

December 6, 2017 at 10:45 pm

Hi, do you remember which tour company you contacted for this tour?

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