Any opinions on using packing folders to help pack smarter?
 

With all the great suggestions in packing light and packing smarter threads I thought to find more opinions about packing folders. I don't know if Eagle Creek folders are the only brand out there currently.

I have used 2 gallon zip-loc bags, compression bags and packing cubes but this summer I have to REALLY pack smarter and lighter and wondered if packing folders are the answer or just a travel gimmick.

Any yes, I have done my search and only found a thread from 2002. Has anyone used a folder and can give me an opinion or decided not to use them for any reason. Thanks so much, Deborah

What is the weight of the packing folders? Wouldn't you be adding weight?

I'd stick with the zip-loc bags. you can't get much lighter and the TSA can see through them if they check your bags.

I bought packing cubes but don't use them when flying. They weigh more than a lightweight shirt and I'd rather have the shirt.

I use them for blouses and love them. When moving from hotel to hotel on a long trip, I find that my blouses get wrinkled from my repeated digging into my suitcase and the repacking. A packing folder allows me to keep my blouses freer of wrinkles and easily accessible. I take light weight knits on trips, so 6 or more tops easily fit into 1 folder.

Luisah, my packing cubes are really light, they are from Rick Steves and weigh less than a pair of socks. The packing folder weighs 13 ounces as I recall and you are supposed to be able to pack something like 12 to 15 items and then compress them and they won't wrinkle. Can't you tell I believe most everything I read??? ;;) Deborah

I take only carry-on luggage and like to keep the bag under 20 lbs. total.

I use the Eagle Creek "pack-it folders" for shirts and blouses so they don't shift in the bag and arrive wrinkle-free. I can fit about 6 shirts in one pack-it folder.

For the rest of my things I use zip-loc baggies. If my luggage gets inspected, my things can be clearly seen through the clear baggies and the inspectors don't actually touch my stuff.

Also, it makes packing and unpacking in hotel rooms easier too. I just toss in the whole baggie rather than individual items.

Hi D.

After having to roll my suitcase down streets and carry it up and down stairs many times, I've become fanatic about packing light. I weigh my packed suitcase and if it's over 25 lbs. something has to come out, so I wouldn't add a 13 oz folder (that seems high, almost a pound, it may be lighter). I have no doubt that packing cubes are efficient, but the plastic bags work best for me. Weight may not be as much of an issue for women who don't have to handle the suitcase much.

I usually take clothing that doesn't wrinkle, but have read suggestions to use dry cleaners bags to protect your clothes.

I'll be watching for other responses and may check on the packing folder for short trips when I wouldn't be as concerned about the weight.

You need to know how much your bag weighs EMPTY. A lot of bags are heavy even when they're empty. My 22" is the lightest one I could find at 6.5 lbs. It's a cheap old one I bought a long time ago.

Sometimes cheap bags are lighter because they don't have all the fancy doodads attached and because they aren't as well constructed or reinforced. But this is okay if you are not planning to check it.

I pack only one pair of shoes. I use a lightweight travel hair dryer. I examine everything I plan on taking and try to figure out a way to eliminate it or to take a lighter, smaller version.

It becomes an interesting challenge.

I like the packing folders a lot and have different sizes, including the small, deeper ones for socks and undies. They keep clothes quite neat and, as people have said, you can put your things into drawers without unpacking them.

They have mesh tops so airport personnel can see into them, and they can lift them up easily without disturbing the suitcase contents. I've had a number of "contents checked" notes and have never been able to tell anyone had been through the luggage.

carolyn, my packing cubes have the mesh on all sides except the bottom and a zipper that completely opens the top.

Is that what you mean when you say your packing folder? I thought the packing folders were like envelopes in which you place all the items within and you couldn't see inside them.

My problem with the ziploc and compression bags is that the clothing squishes unevenly and there can be gaps that I certainly would like to fill with necessary items. I have been using compression bags/ziploc since they were available and realize how heavy you can get a suitcase. I just wondered if the envelope type of folder would be better for me.

Thanks for everyone's opinions. Deborah

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I have used 2 gallon zip-loc bags, compression bags and packing cubes
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i think you have answered your own question...yes, i do believe they are another gimmick like the others you have tried.

packing and living out of a suitcase is always a little awkward and these gimmicks play on peoples' discomfort with suitcases. however, by introducing all these complications, you are making the whole thing...well...more complicated.

my advice is to get a good quality (but not expensive branded) rolling suitcase, a hanging toiletry bag and take only the minimum (repeat wearings as much as you can).

forget the cubes, spheres, tubes, vacuum packs, dehydrators, folders, binders, rollers, stretchers, and polygons.

simplicity has worked for me all over the world ...for business and pleasure.

Yes, mine are mesh with a solid bottom and fold over four ways with a velcro closer. So it's a cube, I guess, and not a folder. Since I fold the flaps over, I suppose I just assumed the wrong name. At any rate, I love them.

No carolyn that does sound like a folder to me. What brand and where did you find them, please. Packing for this trip which includes a wedding is going to give me an ulcer. Proper packing is going to be what saves me. thanks for the info. Deborah

I use the Eagle Creek packing envelopes, which are just as Carolyn describes them---four flaps that fold over and secure with velcro. Because the bottom is rigid, they keep the folded clothing stable and free from mussing (other than the fold lines). I've used them on more than 20 trips and I wouldn't pack without them. Yes, they do add weight, but they have so many advantages I don't worry about that (and I do carry my own bag, including up and down stairs). I take two sizes---the larger one covers the bottom of my 22" bag; the smaller one goes on top of that with room alongside for 2 pair of shoes, and at the front of the bag for my toiletries kit. The large one take pants (2 or 3 pair) and one dress; the smaller one takes 6 or 8 tops. The top layer consists of a packing cube with undies, plus a hairdryer, a rolled-up fleece jacket, and anything else I forgot.

Packing cubes allow you to pack more in less space and they are convenient. But, more in the same space means more weight.

We went to Germany this year with a carry-on bag & day pack for each of us. I just rolled my clothes and stacked them like logs. The bag had a couple pockets that worked for socks and shorts.

It was nice to have something light that could be easily tossed in the overhead rack on the train.

Regards, Gary

I don't use them - my thinking is they add more weight to a suitcase. Both because they must weigh something themselves but also then you can cram more in, making your overall suitcase weight heavier.

Some people swear by them, some would never use them, some folks in between, some of the ziplock persuasion.

Really it's similar to the backpack vs. suitcase vs. duffle bag or great money belt debate, there's no right or wrong... only what works best for you.

I use the packing envelopes and cubes. On our last trip (1 week), I packed 3 pair of pants and assorted tops in the envelope and underwear in the cube (medium size, probably). I also had a toiletries kit. The bag was light enough for me to carry on and haul around the Metro (we used Roissybus from CDG to Opera and Metro to our hotel).

The envelope keeps clothes from getting too wrinkled. My husband also used one for his shirts.

I have used space bags in the past, but mostly for sweaters when traveling to Germany in December.

I used the ziploc bag packing method for several trips, packing one outfit together (pants, top, jacket). This was handy as I could pull out one outfit at a time and not have to dig through the suitcase to find all the parts. Then I bought one of the Eagle Creek medium size envelopes that velcros and began packing in that. It keeps the clothes very orderly. I use the ziplocs for other items - socks, underwear, etc. One bag for each category. It makes packing and unpacking very easy and keeps everything more orderly as you move from place to place. I find it helpful on trips where we are moving from one place to another every two or three days. Obviously, if you stay in one place, it doesn't matter as much. My husband thinks all that is way too much trouble and doesn't use the ziplocs or envelopes. But the time or two that we have had our luggage searched, mine certainly comes out the better. I think it is a matter of opinion as to what is best, so you'll just have to see what works best for you.

Gary, I sometimes start out rolling my clothes and then switch to another method because I never seem to get everything in that I need. I also get concerned that what I need will always be on the bottom ;;)

Thank you, I appreciate reading the comments both pro and con. I think I will try the packing envelopes.

I wonder if there are alternatives to Eagle Creek; they are a bit expensive. Does anyone know any other brands? Deborah

Hi all practical packers:
What are "packing folders" and "cubes"? What am i missing? I'm using zip-lock-bags.
Thanks for the enlightenment regarding packing light,and still packing "all the stuff" I think i "need".

You can buy these elsewhere, but here are links to see what they are:

Packing Cubes at Magellans.com
http://www.magellans.com/store/Packi...ersLB147?Args=

Packing Folders at Eagle Creek.com
http://www.eaglecreek.com/packit_folders.html

be sure to click on the http links, not the "Creek.com"--that's not the right place

Parfym, let me tell you what I know ;;) I have packing cubes purchased from Rick Steves site, Eagle Creek also has them.

I have two sizes. Mine is a rectangular "cube". It has a solid black bottom and sides made out of black mesh netting. There is a cover on the top that is attached with a zipper that zips on 3 sides. Inside you can place items you don't want floating around in you luggage. I will stuff the small one with knit shirts, underwear, hose, etc It is 6x10 inches x 4.5 inches deep. My large one is 10x13 x 4.5 inches.

On a car trip for Easter, I used the large one for my curling iron, travel hair dryer, make up bag and jewelry plus belts.

I don't have a folder (envelope) type and wanted to know what kind of experiences people have had with them. Eagle Creek seems to have the only folders. You can get more information (and most likely a better description than mine) on their web site. Deborah

I'm suprised at how many women take hair dryers. I think I've been in one hotel in the past several years that didn't have one in the bathroom and then I borrowed one at the desk.

DeborahAnn, Since you'll be going to a wedding I understand why you're considering a packing folder if they keep your clothes wrinkle-free.

Good luck with the packing.

Luisah, when I go to Europe my preference is rural inns, small B&B's or gites, so I always take a hair dryer because they are seldom provided.

Yes, I am considering the packing folders; although I always try to pack light this trip is giving me nightmares. A wedding in the South of France, followed by over a week in the Alps & Lyon followed by a week in Paris at a language school. There might be a super packer out there to get all that in a carryon---but it's not me ;;) Deborah

Sometimes mid-trip I have sent a box of clothes home (like if you are traveling in two different climates, or for your dressier wedding stuff?). I just sort thru my suitcase and take a shopping bag of stuff to the post office, buy a box from them, pack it, and send it to myself at home.

suze, I considered that but thought it was quite expensive. What has been your experience sending things home? Where were you staying when you did this?

I was just looking at the Eagle Creek website and saw a Pack it folder, full length for two suits and full length dresses. I'm also considering that as our usual garment bag has all the outside pockets which makes it a burly piece of luggage. Appreciate your suggestions, Deborah

For all you Eagle Creek Pack It fans-I just went on the stie and noticed that they are offering a rebate at the moment:

http://www.eaglecreek.com/packit_rebate.html

1. Purchase any Eagle Creek Pack-It® products between April 1 and May 31, 2006.
If you purchase:

* Between $25.00 and $49.99 in Eagle Creek Pack-It® products you qualify
for a $5.00 Rebate
* Between $50.00 and $99.99 in Eagle Creek Pack-It® products you qualify
for a $10.00 Rebate
* Between $100.00 or more in Eagle Creek Pack-It® products you qualify for a $25.00 Rebate

DeborahAnn,

It sounds like a wonderful trip, but definitely a packing challenge considering the climate changes. I would not be able to pack for a trip like that in a 22" carryon.

Two years ago I spent several weeks in Europe and needed a mix of clothing. I mailed two boxes home, one from Arles and one from Marseille.

I think the box from Arles was around $70, but was fairly large and heavy, not only with some of my lighter clothes, but with stuff I'd bought there, including shoes. I did not buy the post office box. The shops in Arles put boxes outside after they'd unpacked the merchandise. There was a variety of sizes of clean--used once boxes.

Just before I left for Prague I was in a store in Marseille and saw a clerk unpacking boxes and breaking them down. I asked if I could have one and she said "sure" so I sent more clothing home. I don't remember the cost, but it was less than the first.

Be sure to specify "economique." It took about a month to five weeks for delivery.

If you're not going to wear the outfit for the wedding again, you might ship it home with whatever else you won't need for the remainder of the trip.

I'm sure you'll work it out and have a great time.

Teeny question, but I'm curious. When you use a box you found or from a store, do you go buy tape? How do you get it sealed for mailing? (That's what was handy using everything at the post office.)

Hi Suze,

It was really funny. Before I had decided to mail stuff home I went to the street market in Arles and saw a table loaded with wide rolls of tape for 1 euro. I bought one thinking I'd use it for something and of course I did.

I probably would have found tape in Monoprix but I'm sure it would have cost more for a smaller roll. I used it for something other than mailing in Prague (probably around bubblewrap) and left it on the table when I checked out. Not a big deal, but I think of it when I have to pay $3 - $4 here for a roll a quarter of the size.

I use my (smaller) pack-it cubes religiously. DeborahAnn, I was surprised at how large yours are! I have one the size of your small one but half as deep, and one half that size (same depth as the other). I don't think I've seen one as deep as 4".

I also bought a folder once as a trial; I do use it, but not on every trip. (I find rolling my clothes is less time-consuming than folding to fit the folder, but that's just me.) It's great for all the reasons stated earlier: no wrinkles, no messing around in the suitcase, and unpacking in multiple hotels is much easier.

I use the cubes for socks/underwear, etc. (And zip-locs for dirty laundry when I have to cart it around.) Especially with the smallest one, they fit in the crevices of my luggage.

It sounds like you might be a little more concerned with getting it all in than overall weight, in which case I'd definitely suggest trying them. As for the garment-bag replacement, I've never seen it, but I do like EC products a lot! Do you have a luggage or outdoor gear store nearby? The ones in my area all carry EC; you could get a good look at it to see what it's really like...

Oh, and I think I may have seen other brands for the folders, but unfortunately I don't remember specifically! Maybe try camping websites, like Campmor.com, REI.com, or EMS.com? Or The Container Store?

P.S. How on earth are you going to manage a hat with all that? ;)

I just purchased a set of 3 Ricardo Beverly Hills brand cubes from Ross for $7.99. This will be my first experience using them, so I can't comment on them yet. But I thought I would pass along that price if you have a Ross store near you.

I roll everything, if it is weight you are concerned about obviously any additional 'packaging' will increase said weight. Be they cubes, folders, ziplocs or magic bags, period. Pack efficiently w/out all the extras (typically appliances & shoes, sorry girls) and you shouldn't have a problem. I don't pack any gadgets, just clothes, & never have a problem.

SAnParis, shoes are my downfall, I can just see myself tottering about Paris in my new lavender slides, however they just wouldn't make it as a hiking shoe in the Alps ;;)

Weight is not the problem for my next international trip, limiting the size of luggage is however. That's the reason for the curiosity about packing gadgets and widgets.

I've rolled clothes, I've folded clothes, I've used the bundling method, I think I've used them all; one form or another. (the least successful was throw the underwear away!!! how does one throw used underwear away I ask?? ;;) It's just not my style)

Thanks, I think I'll order a couple of folders. Luckily I have lots of room in my basement for gadgets, Deborah

Deborah, my folders are Eagle Creek, and they came from a local shop in Louisville, KY, called Taylor Trunk. My daughter gave me the medium-size one and a small one, and then I bought the large size and another small one.

They are not very heavy. I can't think they will add much weight, and I'm not tempted to add more clothes just because they would fit in. For your purposes, I think they will work quite well.

Have a good trip, and do tell us about it.

Nicksgirl--
I called 2 Ross stores (PA & NC) where I have relatives (thinking they could pick them up for me). Neither store had the cubes--well one store said they had so much in their store, there was no way for them to know--which means they didn't want to take the time to look :( That's a great price.