Confession: I’m an over packer. As someone who travels frequently for work you’d think I’d know better. And I do know better. I will probably not need the extra top or sandals, but I would be more annoyed at myself if I was on holiday and wish I did have that item, rather than if I had more space in my suitcase. I am who I am and I’ve made my peace with that. 

So, when I stumble across a viral packing method that could help me squeeze a few more items in, I can’t resist. Cue: TikToker Courtney Shields. The popular social media star shared her top tip to maximising space in her luggage, or in my case, just fitting more in. 

@courtney.shields Travel hacks to pack a little more compact on your next trip #summervacation #vacay #vacaymode #travelhacks ♬ original sound – Courtney Shields

Courtney suggests ditching the packing cubes and opting for ziplock bags instead. In her viral TikTok video, Courtney demonstrates how she packs outfits in a zip lock bag and labels them, for ease when travelling. 

The way she saves room in her suitcase is by almost closing the zip lock bag, then – using her body weight – compresses the air out of the bag and quickly seals it. By doing this, Courtney is doing the same thing a vacuum seal bag would do but without having to pay for the pricey vacuum bag. Not only is she saving space, she’s also saving money. 

So there you have it overpackers, here’s a sneaky way to fit more in your luggage. Or, if you’re keen to fit everything in your carry-on (hats off to you, I don’t know how you do it), try this trick to ensure you maximise what little space you have. 

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