20 Smart Packing Hacks for the Holiday Travel Season

20 Smart Packing Hacks for the Holiday Travel Season

The holiday season is here, and that means it’s time to pack your bags (and maybe your patience). Whether you're jetting off to a tropical escape or schlepping to Grandma’s for the annual family drama, these tips will help you pack like a pro.

1. Roll, Don’t Fold

Rolling clothes saves space and minimizes wrinkles. Who knew origami skills would pay off?

2. Gallon Ziploc Bags Are Your Best Friend

They’re like little drawers for your suitcase—budget-friendly, versatile, and perfect for squeezing out extra air to save space. And—they keep your sanity intact when TSA unzips your life.

3. Wrap It Up Like a Burrito

Put breakables in socks, then stuff them inside shoes. It's bubble wrap, but make it fashion.

4. Shoes: Stuff, Then Bag

Stuff shoes with socks, then bag them. No one wants their undies touching the soles that walked through airport bathrooms. Pro hack: Every Arlo Skye suitcase comes with a set of complimentary shoe bags.

5. Wear Your Heaviest Layers

carry-on with coat on top and shoes adjacent
Above: The Carry-On Max in Champagne. Shop: Zipper (best-seller) or Frame.

Bulky coat? Heaviest boots? Wear them onboard. You'll look like a walking marshmallow, but you’ll free up precious luggage space.

6. Think Capsule Wardrobe

Pack versatile pieces you can mix and match. If it can’t be worn three ways, it stays home.

7. Mini Everything

Invest in travel-size toiletries or decant your must-haves into reusable mini bottles. TSA doesn’t care about your full-size shampoo.

8. Tech Tidy Up

Roll up cords, secure with twist ties, and stash them in a glasses case. No more tech spaghetti in your bag.

9. Pre-Plan Outfits

Lay out outfits ahead of time so you’re not stuck with five tops and no pants. Unless you’re going to a no-pants party.

10. Pack a Laundry Bag

A simple drawstring bag keeps dirty clothes from contaminating clean ones. Because holiday odors belong in the kitchen, not your suitcase.  Pro hack: Every Arlo Skye suitcase comes with a laundry bag. 

11. Always Pack Snacks

Granola bars, nuts, or trail mix. Hangry is not a good look at 35,000 feet—or at the in-laws’.

12. Go Digital

Store copies of your passport, travel itinerary, and reservations on your phone. You never know when you'll need them.

13. Underwear Math

Days away + 2 = number of pairs to pack. Trust us, you'll thank yourself.

14. Don’t Forget the Power Bank

Your phone will die. It always does. Charge it on the go to with an Arlo Skye charger — on sale at 50% off for a limited time.

15. Use a Packing Checklist

dusen dusen carry-on max open

Yes, it sounds basic, but it’ll save you from arriving sans toothbrush.

16. Bundle Breakables with Clothes

Wrap wine bottles, candles, or gifts in sweaters. Practical and protective.  If you travel with a lot of breakables, then invest a frame case.  

17. Layered Liquids

Keep liquids in a Ziploc bag in your carry-on or checked bag to avoid the dreaded shampoo explosion. It’s a classic for a reason.

18. Don’t Overpack “Just in Case” Items

You’re not MacGyver. Leave behind the fifth pair of jeans and focus on what you’ll actually wear.

19. Bring a Collapsible Bag

Perfect for souvenirs, extra gifts, or your new holiday sweater collection.

20. Leave Room for Surprises

Going full-on Tetris might seem efficient, but leave some wiggle room for those holiday surprises—or impulsive shopping sprees.