I almost never travel with a suitcase. I find they’re more difficult to travel with and much prefer backpacks. However, I have used them, and when I have, this is how I do it.

The Bag

Before you get started with packing, be sure that the bag you plan to use fits your needs and the dimensions of the company you plan to travel with, as well as to ensure that there is no damage like broken handles or wheels that you may not have noticed the last time you used it.

Clothing

I always roll my clothes but depending on the trip and bag, packing cubes may be a better option than having loose clothing in the bag.

If you aren’t using a packing cube set, using both folding and rolling techniques will likely give you the most space possible, allowing you to fit all your items, and hopefully, any souvenirs you bring back with you.

No matter how much extra space you might be able to create with pop outs, or by folding or rolling clothing into smaller packs, DO NOT overstuff your bag.

The last thing you want is to have your bag break or be overweight, meaning you have to pay a fee at the airport.

Shoes

Same as with backpacks, I recommend using shoes as best you can, by filling them with socks or other small items, and by putting them in the right place.

Depending on how you pack, this may be in the pocket on the lid of the bag, or like me on the sides, to add some (albeit, limited) protection for all the goods inside. I would also recommend to bring a wrapping of some kind, like a bag or even a shower cap to put over the shoes you bring to make sure the clothing and bag don’t end up getting dirty if the shoes have any dirt or other things on them like gum that may get stuck on the items in your bag.

Liquids

As of writing this, if you plan to travel carry on, most places still have a 100 millilitre (3.4 Ounce) limit on liquids. As I mentioned in my piece on packing with backpacks, I recommend getting solids of everything you can, like toothpaste tabs, body scrubs bars, bar hair soap among other things.

Packing

Unlike backpacks, the packing of a suitcase can be quick, without having to worry about how difficult it will be to carry for hours on end.

For suitcases, I put the heavy things closer to the wheels, to avoid the bag tipping over, and pack around, placing the lightest stuff at the top.

I would also recommend doing a dry run to make sure you can lift it even a few feet to put in and take out of a vehicle, as well as up any potential stairs that you may encounter in case your accommodation, as it may not have any lifts or baggage delivery.