What is the most efficient way to fold clothes for travel?

If you’re unsure what to pack, the viral 5-4-3-2-1 method can be very useful.

Does the thought of packing before a holiday stress you out? Just the idea of fitting multiple dresses, shirts, pants, shoes, and accessories into a single suitcase can feel overwhelming. Don’t worry—there are plenty of quick online hacks to ease last-minute packing anxiety. Recently, we came across digital creator Shashank Arora’s post, where he shares not one, but three simple packing techniques to make travel lighter and easier.

While opinions differ on the best way to pack, Arora tested all three methods using the same set of clothes and a small bag.

1. The traditional fold method:
This method fit 5 shirts, 4 t-shirts, 3 pairs of pants (2 jeans + 1 formal), 2 towels, 2 shorts, along with shoes, socks, slippers, and boxers. Everything remained neat, accessible, and easy to organise.

2. The viral vertical packing method:
Here, clothes are stacked upright rather than laid flat. It’s supposed to save space, but only one extra shirt fit. You also need a taller suitcase since this method adds height. It’s not ideal for formal wear either, as wrinkles and crushed collars are almost inevitable.

3. The rolling method:
Each item—shirts, pants, even towels—is rolled. It saves a bit of space but can be time-consuming and looks less organised. Best suited for casual items like t-shirts and jeans, it’s not ideal for structured or formal clothing.