The world of travel packing has been revolutionized by a simple yet effective hack: vertical packing. This method, which involves standing a suitcase upright and loading items vertically rather than horizontally, has taken social media by storm, garnering millions of views and sparking enthusiastic responses from travelers worldwide. Luxury travel content creator Aline Lowry showcased the technique in a viral TikTok video, demonstrating how it maximizes luggage space and provides a clear overview of packed items. Lowry expressed astonishment at the sheer volume of clothing she could fit into her suitcase using this method, likening the packed bag to a “drawer full of clothes.” This visual organization not only maximizes capacity but also eliminates the need to rummage through layers of clothing to find specific items.
The vertical packing method offers several advantages over traditional horizontal packing. Firstly, it maximizes space utilization by allowing travelers to stack items efficiently, similar to organizing a drawer. This is particularly beneficial for those who tend to overpack or need to carry a variety of items for different occasions. Secondly, it provides instant visibility of all packed items. When opening the suitcase, travelers can easily see and access everything they’ve packed, eliminating the frustration of searching through piles of clothes. This organized approach saves time and reduces the likelihood of leaving essential items behind. Finally, the vertical arrangement can help minimize wrinkles in clothing, especially when heavier items are placed at the bottom and lighter, more delicate items are placed on top.
The positive response to Lowry’s vertical packing demonstration has been overwhelming, with commentators praising its ingenuity and practicality. Many viewers expressed their surprise and excitement, describing the method as “mind-blowing” and “genius.” Several commenters echoed Lowry’s experience, confirming that vertical packing allows them to fit significantly more clothing into their luggage. The visual aspect of the technique also resonated with viewers, who appreciated the clear overview of packed items and the ease of access it provides.
The viral popularity of vertical packing highlights the ongoing search for efficient and organized travel packing solutions. Other packing methods have also gained traction in recent years, catering to different travel styles and needs. The “5-4-3-2-1” method, for instance, encourages minimalist packing for overnight stays by limiting travelers to a specific number of tops, bottoms, shoes, dresses, and accessories. This method prioritizes essential items and helps travelers avoid overpacking. On the other extreme, the “flying naked” trend challenges travelers to fly with only the clothes on their backs, eliminating luggage fees altogether. This extreme approach, however, is not suitable for all travelers or destinations.
While “flying naked” may be too extreme for most, the vertical packing method appears to have struck a chord with a broader audience. Numerous commenters on Lowry’s video shared their own experiences with the technique, confirming its effectiveness and offering additional tips. Some suggested placing heavier items like shoes and toiletries near the wheels of the suitcase for stability and to minimize wrinkles on lighter clothing. Others emphasized the importance of starting with heavier items at the bottom and gradually layering lighter items towards the top. These shared tips and testimonials further solidified the vertical packing method’s credibility and appeal.
The emergence and widespread adoption of the vertical packing hack demonstrate the power of social media in disseminating innovative travel solutions. A simple idea shared on platforms like TikTok can quickly reach millions of people and transform the way they approach travel preparation. Vertical packing, with its emphasis on space optimization, organization, and easy access, addresses common packing challenges and offers a practical solution for travelers seeking a more streamlined and efficient packing experience. Its widespread adoption suggests that this simple yet effective technique is here to stay.
