10 Easy Travel Hacks to Pack Smarter and Lighter

This article is sponsored by Tru Earth.

Are you gearing up for a getaway? I've got some easy travel hacks to help you pack smarter and lighter. Let’s get into it.

You can find more of my crazy creations (click here)

Tools and materials:

• Sunglasses
• Chargers
• Shirts
• Pants
• Undergarments
• Lightweight laundry bag
• Bar of soap
• Tru Earth laundry detergent sheets
• Plastic wrap
• Travel-size bottles (shampoo/lotion)
• Binder clip
• Hat
• Pajamas (shirt and shorts)
• Scarf

1. Use your shoes for storage

Shoes are the perfect hiding places for small items like sunglasses and chargers.

2. The ranger roll

Start by laying your shirt flat. Fold up the bottom so that it folds up all the way around. Then fold in one side of the shirt and then fold the sleeve. Fold the other side of the shirt in and then fold the sleeve again. 

Tightly roll from the top all the way down to the fold and then flip the fold around. This keeps all of the pieces individual so you can grab anything you want at any time.

3. The outfit roll

Start by folding your pants in half long ways. Then fold a shirt in half the long ways as well and place it on top of the pants. 

Place all of your undergarments on top of that and roll the whole thing together. This will keep your whole outfit together.

4. The sandwich method

Start by folding up your bottoms, then place your undergarments in the middle.

 Then fold your shirt and place it on top. 

This just keeps an outfit together but it keeps them nice and stacked.

5. Don’t forget a laundry bag

Don't forget a lightweight laundry bag. Then when I'm traveling, I've got a spot for dirty clothes and it doubles as a liner for wet and messy items. I fold this down into a small square. 

6. Swap bulky liquids for bars and sheets

Instead of packing bulky body wash, grab a simple bar of soap. TSA-friendly and zero chance of leaks.

Another leak-free swap? Tru Earth laundry detergent sheets. These are game changers. Lightweight, space-saving, and completely mess-free. No big plastic jugs, no spills, and no waste.

When it's laundry time, just grab your travel laundry bag, toss in your clothes, add a strip, and wash away. Easy and eco-friendly.

Grab your travel-friendly laundry detergent at Tru Earth and don't forget to use code TRAVEL15 to get 15% off your order.

And if you don't have access to a machine, hand washing is easy in a basin or sink with these detergent sheets.

7. Stop leaks before they happen

Ever had your shampoo or lotion explode in your bag? Not fun. A little plastic wrap can go a long way. Just unscrew the cap, place a small piece of the plastic wrap over the opening, and screw the lid back on.

And if your bottle has a pop-top, don't forget to open it to relieve any pressure to prevent any future messes.

8. Razor protection hack

Keep your razor sharp and your fingers safe. Clip a binder clip over the blade. Such a simple little hack that makes such a big difference.

9. Keep your hat in shape

Trying to keep your hat in shape? Don't pack it flat. Stuff it. I roll up my pajamas, just the shirt and the shorts, and tuck them inside the crown. It saves space and keeps the brim from getting squished.

10. The must-have scarf

A travel must-have? A scarf. It's more than just an accessory. Use it to dress up an outfit, cover your shoulders from the sun, or wrap around you when it's chilly.

I've laid it like a blanket on the ground to sit and read. I've used it as a leg cover when I'm outdoors. And I've wrapped a jacket inside of one to make a makeshift pillow.

Packing with intention

It always amazes me how much can fit when you pack with intention. A few smart folds, multi-use items, and a little planning go a long way. And I still have room for my souvenirs.

Happy travels. Thanks for watching and I'll see you next time. Thanks to Tru Earth for sponsoring this video.