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As a travel and lifestyle journalist and content creator, I travel fairly often. For years, I swore by packing cubes. But after buying one too many expensive sets that broke after just a few trips (usually because of stuck or broken zippers), I knew I needed a simpler solution.
Then one day, while folding laundry, an idea hit me: Instead of buying packing cubes, why not just use pillowcases? It sounded almost too simple, but I tried it on my next trip and I haven't looked back since.
What Is My "Pillowcase Packing Cube" Hack?
Here's how it works: I use pillowcases to "envelope" my clothes inside my suitcase. They keep everything organized and separated from shoes and accessories.
To do this, I start by laying a pillowcase flat on the bed. Then I fold my T-shirts, dresses, and pants into uniform rectangles and stack them neatly inside the pillowcase. Once it's filled, I tuck the open end of the pillowcase under the stack of clothes to create a snug, self-contained bundle. The tension keeps everything securely in place, so nothing spills out in my suitcase. Then I simply place the packed pillowcase directly into my luggage.
Why I Love This Packing Hack
Using pillowcases instead of packing cubes comes with a few surprisingly helpful advantages. Here's what stands out to me most.
It's affordable.
First of all, there's no added expense. I already had extra pillowcases sitting in my linen closet, so I could start using this trick immediately. Plus, unlike structured packing cubes, pillowcases are flexible and breathable, which means they mold easily to the shape of your suitcase and help eliminate wasted space.
It's surprisingly versatile.
I don't just use pillowcases for everyday clothing. They're also great for packing socks, gym clothes, and pajamas. I usually designate different colored pillowcases for different categories, which makes it easy to find what I need without rummaging through my entire suitcase.
They're also surprisingly useful for bulky toiletries. Items like deodorant, perfume, sheet masks, and soap bars can easily overfill a standard toiletry bag, but a pillowcase gives them a little extra room while keeping everything contained.
It doubles as a laundry bag.
One of my favorite uses is saving a pillowcase specifically for dirty laundry. Toward the end of a trip, it becomes my designated "laundry bag," keeping worn clothes separate from the rest of my suitcase. I usually pack silk or satin pillowcases for my clean clothes since they help prevent wrinkles, and a basic cotton pillowcase for dirty items on the way home.
If you're looking for a zero-cost way to organize your packing, give this hack a try. Who knew that a forgotten item in my linen closet could be so handy while traveling? I sure didn't!
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Further Reading
6 IKEA Hacks for the Most Disorganized Among Us
Before and After: Black and White Paint Covers Up a Wood Paneling Kitchen
This Entomologist Has a Travel Warning: Always Put Your Suitcase in the Hotel Bathroom
