Day 4: Surprising Ways to Streamline Your Suitcase

Packing Hacks is a 31-part series devoted to helping you become an expert packer! Each installment offers advice on how to get organized, pack smarter, save on bag fees, and eliminate packing stress. New to Packing Hacks? Start at the beginning.

We discussed ways to pack lighter and tighter yesterday. But now it's time to talk junk. Suitcase junk, that is—and how to control it. Drop the clutter that weighs you down with our straightforward strategies for suitcase organization.

You'll learn:

√ How to clean your bag (and keep it clean)

√ How to purge unnecessary items

√ The best ways to prevent junk accumulating during your trip

Up next: Day 5: The Best Carry-On Bags for Your Trip.