How to Pack a Suitcase for Kids (it's easy!)

Packing a kid's suitcase doesn't have to be painstaking. In fact, we think it's pretty easy-peasy with the right tips. Whether you're heading to one of the best all-inclusive resorts for families or just spending a few days at Grandma's house, you'll love this simple method. And once you know the trick, you'll probably use it on your own grown-up luggage, too.

How to pack kids’ clothes in a suitcase:

1. Lay the biggest shirt flat on the floor.

2. Place underwear and a pair of shorts or pants on top.

3. Fold arms inward, over the clothing.

4. Place two matching socks opposite each other at the top, openings facing outward.

5. Roll the shirt from top to bottom until it forms a tight tube.

6. Flip the cuff of each sock over the bundle to keep the outfit secure.

Heck, you may even have enough space to throw your best toddler travel bed or a much-needed bike helmet in with all the space you saved.

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And, if you're looking for particularly easy-to-pack kids' suitcases, we suggest looking for the following features:

• Hard-sided exterior to protect interior contents and be virtually kid-proof
• Rolling wheels
• Extendable handle for easy pulling at a variety of heights (sometimes kids help, sometimes adults do all the work)
• Interior pockets or organizers for easy separation of items and/or dirty clothes

Some of our favorite accessories for neatly packing a kids' suitcase:

• Affordable, adorable packing cubes like these keep clothes separate and other items collected even when you're rolling clothes
• Adjustable neck pillow with seat straps to keep heads upright, spines aligned and bigger kids well-rested
• If your suitcase doesn't come with a built-in name tag, consider investing in easy-to-see, durable kids' luggage tags like these

Other fun items you might want to consider throwing in or making space for:

• Coloring books and crayons, pens, markers or pencils
• A separate waterproof bag or compartment for swimwear
• A waterproof compartment, cube or plastic bag for packing shoes that have been worn
• Hygiene essentials like a hair brush, ponytail holders or kid-friendly bubble bath in travel sizes
• Snuggly toys and sleep accessories