When we are asked about maximising space in suitcases one of the most frequent questions we get is what is best folding vs rolling? But there is more to packing than just maximising space. You have to thing about weight distribution, wrinkles and access to clothes on arrival. In this guide we look at the pros and and cons of the rolling vs folding method of packing a case so you can decide which technique is best for you.
Folding Method
Let’s be honest, the folding method is the traditional way of packing your suitcase. You fold each item of clothes as you would to put them in a drawer and then simple stack them inside of the suitcase.
This method is great because :
- it reduces wrinkles more than the rolling method as there are fewer places where creases are likely to appear.
- Access – I find it much easier to pull items out of the case when needed as you just lift and grab the layer you want and then put the rest of the clothe sback stacked on top. Whereas when rolled, one of the keys is packing things tightly together so it is hard to remove one thing and not causing more wrinkles in other clothes.
- Good for packing bulky and winter clothes and is much better for weight distribution.
- And if you have items that need a garment bag, they will have to be folded into luggage rather than rolled.
But there are some downsides to the folding method.
- Less space efficient – with the rolling method the key is everything is packed tightly together so uses up the space more efficiently.
- Some fabrics such as linen are best folded only when you have tissue to fold against.
We also recommend using packing cubes for the folding method as it helps to further reduce wrinkles and keeps your items organised.
Rolling Method
The main benefit of the rolling method is that it absolutely maximises space in your case. They key to the rolling method is that you roll each item of clothing separately and then pack them tightly against each other in the case so there is no room for movement.
However it really depends on what you are packing as to whether they can be rolled.
Items that are structured or boned and items that are prone to wrinkling i.e. linen, silk and cottons are not great for rolling as they are likely to wrinkly more this way. However if you have clothes made from light and man made fabrics i.e. polyester and lycra then these will fold really well.
I personally also find this method more time consuming. The reason for this is that a lot of my clothes especially casual clothes are already folded in my drawers. I then just have to transfer the clothes from drawer to case.
Whereas with rolling, this is somehting I have to do from scratch and takes me more time as I try and prevent as many wrinkles as I can by making it tight and neat.
Also if you aren’t unpacking as soon as you get to your destination this method can get messy very quickly. As everything is rolled and packed so tightly togehter removing one thing can have a big knock effect.
What is best rolling or folding?
Overall if your only aim is to maximise space in your case then undoubtedly rolling is the best method especially if you are traveling with lots of casual outfits.
However if you have lot of dressier clothes, structured pieces and natural fabrics I personally would sacrifice some space in favour of reducing wrinkles.
Your other option of course is to mix and match your packing methods. Where you fold everything made of natural fabrics and bulkier items such as sweaters and then roll smaller items like socks, t shirts and anything made of man made fabrics to fill up the spaces.
Other packing methods to try
Want to try something different why don’t you read about our bundle packing method which is especially great for those traveling in Winter.
And for other tips for traveling light when traveling why not check out our travel capsule wardrobes
- sudoku packing method
- Winter capsule wardrobe
- Summer Capsule Wardrobe
- Fall Capsule Wardrobe
- Spring Capsule Wardrobe.
What method do you prefer? Let us know in the comments below!