"Can't find packing gear that suits your needs? Why not create it yourself, Shark Tank–style? OK, most of us don't have the time or expertise for that, but Hudson + Bleecker founder Eram Siddiqui took on the challenge so the rest of us don't have to.
Siddiqui always had trouble finding the perfect travel accessories to safely pack all of her things, so she launched her own line that blends fashion with function: attractive garment bags, jewelry cases, toiletry bags and more.
Each bag has a waterproof lining so nothing inside or out gets ruined (translation: no more spills that destroy everything in your suitcase), and the exclusive patterned textiles are printed in-house. Hudson + Bleecker's accessories are a splurge (check out the sale section for deals!), but they make for awesome gifts—even if they're presents for yourself.
The tips below, though? 100 percent free. And who better than a packing expert to tell us how to pack a suitcase? Below are Siddiqui's packing tips that'll streamline your next getaway like the sleek jet-setter you are.
1. For shoes, follow the rule of three.
Real talk if you're overzealous about your footwear, whether it's too many sneakers for your favorite sports or an over-the-door shoe caddy's worth of heels:
“Three pairs of shoes is all you need. It's efficient, takes the guesswork out of what to pack and saves a lot of room in your luggage. Pack one pair for a night on the town, one comfortable pair (sandals or ballet flats for women) to give your feet a break, and a pair of sneakers or runners for a run or hike. You can conveniently fit three pairs in our travel shoe bags.”
Feel free to match these to your best travel neck pillow.
2. Pre-pack a bag of TSA-friendly toiletries.
Collect a stash of 3.4-ounces-or-less toiletries, and ensure it's permanently ready to roll through security. This clear bag is TSA-approved with perfectly-sized bottles and small containers to load your favorite products into.
Toiletry bag and TSA-approved bottles, $10
“I always have a toiletry bag pre-packed so that if I need to take off at a moment’s notice, all I need to do is grab a carry-on and pack my clothes and shoes, and I'm ready to go. If you're a frequent traveler, pre-packing your toiletries is a significant time-saver.”
3. Bring a paper copy of your passport.
“As a rule, we all know it’s best to keep a copy of your passport at home or with a relative. However, with new laws and travel restrictions domestically, I carry my passport and a copy of my passport at all times, whether it’s a quick domestic flight or a long haul.”
4. Ship the heavy stuff.
“We all love to shop and collect keepsakes when we travel. To avoid overpacking and paying exorbitant baggage fees, I ship my new treasures home whenever possible. Now that I am a new mom, I also purchase all of my little one's essentials on Amazon.com and ship them to our final destination. If you're staying in a hotel, it is very easy to coordinate with the hotel concierge to collect your packages upon check-in.”
The easiest way to do this? Order on Amazon and have it sent directly to your hotel or short-term rental.
5. Packing cubes.
“Trust me, the more organized and compartmentalized your luggage is, the more enjoyable your trip will be. Packing cubes have changed the way I pack and unpack. If you're traveling solo, use a packing cube to separate your apparel from your intimates." Eight-piece packing cube set, $17Shop packing cube sets from $15 now
"If you are traveling with children or family, pack one cube per traveler. I use our shoe bags to pack for my little one, as everything fits perfectly in one. This avoids having to dig through a never-ending pile of clothing, and I can literally unpack my bags in less than five minutes.”
Need a cube? Siddiqui designed this stylish packing cube set is an affordable solution you'll use for years to come.
6. Designate an "essentials" pocket.
“Whenever and wherever, I try to travel with a carry-on only. So the front pocket of my luggage has everything I need to access quickly. A great hack is to pack a small pouch with chapstick, a small hand lotion, eyedrops, ibuprofen, and a small pair of socks, so if you need to refresh, you can grab what you need easily.”
7. Throw in a sweater or wrap (no matter what the weather predicts).
Even if you're headed to a tropical paradise in the middle of the summer, play it safe and swaddle yourself. Knit organic cotton sweater wrap, $50Shop knit wraps from $50 now
“Airplanes are always cold and so are hotel rooms, so I always pack at least one sweater or blanket scarf. You will inevitably use it during your travels or even when you arrive at your final destination. I like to pack either black or neutral colors as those shades go with almost anything.”
BudgetTravel may earn a small commission on purchases made through this article, though every product is independently vetted by editors. Prices are accurate at time of publishing."
"Packing can be a drag, but it’s much less stressful if you’ve got the proper equipment. From luggage racks to packing cubes, we’ve rounded up our go-to tools for making the experience easier, plus the non-negotiable items (think: a smart lint roller, a sleek electric toothbrush) that live in our suitcases year-round. Now all we need is someone to unpack for us.
1. Packing Cube Set, from $15
(Merchant)
Some of us stuff as many items of clothing into our carry-on as possible, even if we have to apply a knee to get it to zip. Others prefer a minimalist approach, and for that well-organized, streamlined experience, packing cubes are key.
Shacke’s set of four comes in varying sizes that can be mixed and matched to hold everything you need for a short weekend hop or an extended 10-day stay, and your suitcase will be a Type A’s dream for the duration. (Pro-tip: Consider packing by day rather than by clothing category—i.e., all of Monday's gear goes in one cube, rather than, say, pants in one and socks in another—so you're not opening them all up every time you get dressed.)
2. Portable Luggage Rack, $20
(Merchant)
If you’re regularly on the go, packing can be a literal pain, especially if your suitcase is on the floor and you’re constantly bending down to do the job. (And if you’re putting it on your bed to load it up, stop immediately!
Those wheels are just as filthy, if not more so, than airport security bins, and we all know how germy those things are.) A sturdy, no-frills luggage rack is a small luxury, but it’s one that’ll make a big difference. And as a bonus, your houseguests will surely appreciate it as well.
3. Bathing Suit Pouches, $5 each
(Greg Marino)
Americans are reluctant to take paid time off as it is—why squander those hard-earned days by not enjoying them to the full extent? Surely you can squeeze in one last dip in the ocean before you head to the airport—all you need is a place to stash your wet gear.
Splash-proof pouches keep damp bathing suits from leaking all over everything else in your pack, and with an array of extremely cute designs to choose from, they're functional and fashionable too.
4. Packable Backpack, from $10
(Courtesy Everlane)
Planning on doing some serious souvenir shopping, or just looking for a way to carry everything you need for the day without resorting to a massive tote? When it's folded into its front pocket, Everlane’s packable backpack measures just 9-½ inches by 6-½ inches, so it'll slide right into your carry-on, and it’s emblazoned with a cheery “bon voyage” that'll get your trip started on the right foot.
5. To Wrangle Your Toiletries, $34
(Courtesy Topo Designs)
Dopp kits are often a bottomless pit of toiletries and accoutrements, but the version from Topo Designs can help you avoid all that. Its unique triangular shape allows it to sit upright on narrow hotel sinks or shelves, and even though the interior is surprisingly spacious, the brightly colored lining makes it easy to find whatever you need.
Whether you’re packing the entire medicine cabinet or traveling light, you'll have plenty of room.
6. Electric Toothbrush Kit, $40
(Courtesy Quip)
Once you’ve switched from a standard brush to a water pick or an electric toothbrush, it’s tough to go back. Hardcore dental equipment doesn’t tend to be very portable, but when you’re on the road, Quip’s battery-operated electric model is just the ticket.
With soft bristles and a sonic vibration motor, plus a sleek travel cover with a suction strip that adheres to any glossy surface, freeing up precious sink or shelf space, it’ll help you stick to your oral-hygiene regimen.
7. Magical Lint Roller, $18
As much as we love our pets and miss them while we’re away, we really don’t need our apparel to serve as a reminder of the furry friends we’ve left behind. This clever lint roller from Flint is less than six inches long when closed, but it extends and retracts as needed and takes up next to no room while it’s at it.
Refills are cinch, and it comes in so many colors and designs, you’re bound to find one that matches your luggage.
8. Rag Bean Socks, from $5
(Courtesy L.L. Bean)
Even in the sunniest of climes, hotel air conditioning can be excessive. Your favorite well-worn slippers should probably remain where no one else can judge—or see—them, but a pair of cushy, cozy socks will keep your feet from freezing, no matter how low your travel companion likes to set the thermostat.
This super-soft cotton-ragg set from L.L. Bean won’t itch or stretch; they're also quick drying and moisture-wicking, and they won’t occupy much real estate in your suitcase either.
9. Portable Garment Steamer, $20
Who wants to waste precious time and energy struggling with an unfamiliar iron? A portable steamer is a no-fuss way to eliminate wrinkles—and it’s much more effective than hanging your clothes in the bathroom while you shower and hoping that does the trick. (...what, like you haven't tried it?)
This compact number from URPOWER weighs less than two pounds and measures just over eight inches tall, produces steam in a matter of minutes, and comes with a heat-resistant glove and a pouch to stash it in.
BudgetTravel may earn a small commission on purchases made through this article, though every product is independently vetted by editors. Prices are accurate at time of publishing."
"Whether you're looking to keep your most comfortable travel clothes in perfect shape or tend to pack your bags with business-ready ensembles prone to wrinkling, keeping a travel clothes steamer on hand is a good idea.
We tested and reviewed dozens of models, narrowing down the absolute best models to pack in your suitcase. Overall, we loved the Jack & Rose model best because it works with both American and European voltages without worry.
Best travel clothes steamers 2025:
Best overall: Jack & Rose Travel SteamerBest budget: OGHome Steamer for ClothesBest for domestic travel: Beautural Clothes SteamerBest lightweight: 1,000 Watt Portable Mini Steamer
Best overall
Jack & Rose Travel Steamer, $64
Jack & Rose Travel Steamer, $64
The easy-to-handle Jack & Rose travel steamer tops our list because it easily handles both 120V and 220V outlets. That means you can use it across the North American continent, Europe and far beyond. It's also lightweight, fun to use and packs nicely in your luggage without worry.
It's the best travel clothes steamer overall and actually fun to use.
Best budget
OGHome Steamer for Clothes, $19
OGHome Travel Steamer, $19
For North American travel, this budget-friendly OGHome clothes steamer is our top choice thanks to its compact design, easy operation and quick heating. In a matter of seconds your clothes are ready to be steamed. The ergonomic handle, simple filling and extra-long nine-foot electric cable all won our hearts.
Best for domestic travel
Beautural Clothes Steamer, $20
Beautural Travel Steamer for Clothes, $20
Best lightweight
1,000 Watt Portable Mini Steamer, $15
1,000 Watt Portable Mini Steamer, $15
Weighing only 1.2 pounds and measuring just six inches on its longest side, this 1,000 watt steamer offers a comfortable grip during use and convenient portability. It also heats up and is ready to use in just five seconds. "Excellent product to travel with where there is 120 volt electricity," writes one verified Amazon purchaser. "I tried it at home before my trip and so far so good!"
BudgetTravel may earn a small commission on purchases made through this article, though every product is independently vetted by editors. Prices are accurate at time of publishing."
Budgettravel Domain Overviewđź”’ SSL Verified