Best travel packing organizers according to redditors
We found 256 Reddit comments discussing the best travel packing organizers. We ranked the 159 resulting products by number of redditors who mentioned them. Here are the top 20.
We found 256 Reddit comments discussing the best travel packing organizers. We ranked the 159 resulting products by number of redditors who mentioned them. Here are the top 20.
I travel a ton for work and these have been my workhorses:
In terms of clothing, YMMV but I generally pack a mix of cotton/wool (easy to air out) and synthetics (wrinkle-resistant) in dark neutrals. My stapes are:
And finally, for my (very finicky, pain-prone) feet:
A lot depends on the style you're looking for. I'll also say that security in a bag is a myth. There are things to discourage certain behavior, but ultimately a bag should never be seen as a secure container. (after all it can always be cut)
What I chose.
I traveled for about a month in Europe staying in hostels. Even though it was only a month I could have traveled for about a year (adding only a tablet) with the bag/things I brought.
Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Backpack - $150 (Discontinued)
[Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Backpack
I love this bag but it might not be the single best option for you. It's low profile, turns into a duffle bag (more about that later) and although it doesn't look like a school backpack, it doesn't standout like this either.
The reason I love that it turns into a duffle bag is because theres a semi hidden velcro pocket in the bottom where the cover rolls into. This is a great place to sew or velcro a small zippered wallet or bag to store extra money or valuables. It's not secure as much as its hidden. This won't help you if they steal the whole bag, but it will help you if they just ransack the place and steal from the open compartments.
Other Options
There are a ton of other options. I suggest watching the VagaBrothers Video - How to Choose the BEST Travel BACKPACK | Pros & Cons Minimalist Backpack Review and Travel Tips: Packing Hacks, Tips & Essentials
The F Stop bags look great, but are pretty pricy. Depending on what lenses you're bringing (18-55mm kit lens VS 70-200mm VR f2.8) it may or may not be worth it for size and configurability. I personally bought a Sony a6000 and left my big DSLR at home. That was actually a really good choice for the type of trip I did, but if I was going for a year (like you are) I understand needing the big camera. You might want to get camera/lens inserts like this (but not necessarily that one, I just clicked on the first one I saw on amazon) to store and protect those other lenses.
Hope that helps.
The following is copy and pasted from an email I sent to family friends traveling abroad. It gives links and ideas for things that help when traveling minimally.
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Security:
Since I was traveling alone, and in hostels, security was a slightly bigger deal for me. I carried my passport on my person or locked in my hostel (many had lockers or metal lock boxes).
At all times I had a photo copy of my passport and everything in my wallet, some local currency, and a print out of all the embassies in the area. (Attached to this email.) I printed this double sided and had multiple copies with me.
I told my mom, "At any time I want to be able to have everything stolen, but still have a way back home.” My credit card will do cash transfers internationally and also includes a continuous travel insurance package.
I would highly suggest making three copies of your passport and all credit cards and other ID you are taking. One lives on your person when your passport is stored elsewhere (hotel, for example), one lives in your luggage (preferably hidden/tucked away), and one stays with a trusted friend or family member that will be in the States for the duration of your trip. If anything happens they will be able to assist with proving your identity to the State Department, thus speeding the process along. I suggest keeping some cash tucked in your passport (along with that embassy list), your copy of the passport in the luggage, and then the copy of the passport and embassy list in your wallet. At this point you have three possibilities of things to grab to prove your identity/pay for a cab/tell you where to go.
While this may seem a little overboard, I find it doesn't take that long to set up and helps greatly should anything bad happen. Also consider registering with the State Department. This helps them track Americans abroad should anything happen, and also gives you alerts, should anything happen. https://step.state.gov/step/
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Tech Tips
I also used a service called Line2 to give me a US phone number to call from and receive calls to while I was away. I have T-Mobile that gives me included unlimited international data. As long as I had a 4g signal, I also had a phone I could make and receive calls on. Google Voice and Skype would also do this. Do be aware of how much international data costs. Wifi is easy to find, but I suggest using a VPN on your phone or laptop for any web surfing. And even with the VPN I would not suggest logging into any financial (bank, etc) while abroad unless you are on a trusted wifi network (aka, friends).
For maps you can download parts of Google Maps by searching the city and clicking “Download." This should work on Android and iOS versions of Google Maps.
I try to avoid having too much stuff, because less is more. Having said that, here are a few of my most useful accessories:
Ooh, one of my favorite things to think about. Off the top of my head:
Things that I've found haven't helped much: inflatable/memory foam neck pillows, ear plugs, and eye masks. I'm a finicky plane sleeper, clearly, and always hoped those things would help more than they actually did.
I could seriously keep typing all about travel gear all day! I have a huge Amazon wishlist! I'd love to hear thoughts on items like rinse-free detergent and turkish towels. And merino wool things. You'll always see recommendations for merino wool!
essential for travel:
I don’t use a travel-specific handbag, but rather whichever crossbody bag I’m favoring at that time. The only “travel handbag” I own is this fun little Paravel one, which reminds me a lot of Hermes toile, but much easier to not stain or destroy because its waterproof.
also essential:
Edited to add:
Okay, y'all raved so much about packing cubes yesterday that I ordered this set: 6 Set Packing Cubes,3 Various Sizes Travel Luggage Packing Organizers (Burgundy) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N0035AC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_XtbxDbFXN74DZ
Thank you to everyone who gave input! 🙂
I'm in a funk today. My husband just left (literally an hour ago) for a work trip, and I'm on my own with the kids. Usually not a problem, right? Well, my neck/shoulder/arm is KILLING me today. I think I irritated everything at PT yesterday, and it makes me so sad because I had been feeling a little better and this feels like a backslide.
Going to my chiropractor today for an adjustment/manipulation. Please someone reassure me it's going to help. I haven't done chiropractic in 20 years and can't remember how well it worked last time.
I'm a big fan of packing cubes, as they transform the contents of your bag from being 20 individual pieces to 4-5 much more manageable sections. They're basically all the same, the only tip I have is to opt for those which open like clamshell (sort of?) like this as opposed to those which are "top loading" like this. I bought something similar to the top loading ones first and didn't really like that I had to dig past other clothes to get to the bottom.
Another tip is to organize your bags based on the demands of your clothes (one bag for cold weather, one for warm weather, one for sleep wear, or something like that) so that you don't have to open every bag to get a shirt from one, pants from another, etc, etc. I'm sure you'll find a system that works for you.
Eagle Creek Pack-It Quick Trip. It's a little bulky, but as you can see, I keep practically all of my loose stuff in it.
My bag is a 49L Eagle Creek Load Hauler. Yes, bigger than average for this sub. Hence the relatively bulky toiletry kit.
These are the ones I used for a month euro trip with my farpoint 40. They worked perfectly. Highly recommend. Just make sure to practice with them and find out how much you can put in them.
At Amazon ($8.95, 3 colors), and at Eagle Creek ($8.95, 5 colors).
Eagle Creek are supposed to be the best, but there are lots of really inexpensive options on Amazon that work well too. It might be worth at least starting with a cheaper option to see what size combinations work best for you. The combo-size packs aren't always the most useful. For instance, I found I have no use for the large sized cubes—they're just way too big. Three slim cubes are plenty for me for long trips (4+ weeks) in warm weather (similar to these) and two slims are enough for any trips shorter than that. Longer winter trips I use one medium cube + one slim (I need a bit more width for sweaters & heavier fabrics). The mediums are quite large and fit a LOT of clothing though.
There are also compression options too. I've heard great things about Eagle Creek's compression cubes, but I don't use compression cubes so I haven't tried them personally.
Tese things
https://www.amazon.ca/gp/aw/d/B014VBGUCA/ref=mp_s_a_1_1/137-5411255-7989453?ie=UTF8&qid=1493241849&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=amazon+basics+packing+cubes&dpPl=1&dpID=51JZe2iFp9L&ref=plSrch
I believe so. Here's the link - Eagle Creek Pack It Cube Set , Black, 3pc Set https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00F9S85CS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_kB-5ybWG4GHMM
Id get the ones that can separate dirty and clean if I did it now.
I would also suggest getting some packing cubes. I got some on amazon and they are great (and were on sale at the time) So that way you can actually fit enough stuff in the single bag. I usually use the interior pockets for underware and socks, then 2x different sized packing cubes. One for tshirts, pajamas, and polos then another for my pants, the jeans are so thick they need a bag on their own. Then a little see through box for toiletries for TSA.
Edit: Here they are.
AmazonBasics.
I have the 4 piece set and used the 3 smallest ones and then had a little nook in which to put my cameras.
These were reommended by an article I read early on. First I ordered them and made surr my stuff would fit, then I bought a bag that would fit them!
Eagle Creek Pack-It Cube Set Packing Organizer, Black, Set of 3 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00F9S85CS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_vsiTDbFSP6MNG
Like others in this thread, I used to leave a stack of clean folded shirts and a couple pairs of chinos in my locker at work. I would replenish it with the occasional car ride for laundry day and I also used one of these in my pannier to transport ironed shirts and slacks.
For my 6 week trip across Europe, I used the Osprey Porter:https://www.amazon.com/Osprey-Porter-Travel-Backpack-46-Liter/dp/B00IMXQ8Z8/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1486581651&sr=8-2&keywords=osprey+farpoint+40
I found it cheaper at a local store. It's still carry-on size, which it seems like you're going for. Plus 1 on the winter clothes comment, you're going to appreciate the extra room. I overpacked for my trip (it was my first major backpacking adventure), but for my next one I'm going to bring less and will still be glad to have this bag. Just the right amount of pockets/compartments and space. Travel cubes were also a big help:https://www.amazon.com/AmazonBasics-4-Piece-Packing-Cube-Set/dp/B014VBGUCA/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1486581909&sr=8-6&keywords=travel+cubes
And get yourself some camping soap for washing clothes! One little bottle will last you a long time, you don't need much.
What kind of folder are you using?
Eagle Creek makes a Pack-It folder that's about the size of a laptop and does a really good job.
If you want something a little bigger, the hanging garment insert from Away Luggage works great and you can keep things on hangers.
We are a 20 minute drive from the hospital and husband will not leave my side, so I'd like to get everything in. I'm a notorious overpacker, too, but I'd rather have something I don't need than have not have something that I do need.
Mom Stuff:
Baby Stuff:
Dad stuff:
Both
I think that covers just about everything. I used travel packing cubes to keep all of the clothing items organized, and I already had several different other travel bags that I generally use when actually leaving town, for all of the "other" items. [edited formatting]
I travel 5x a year for work (1 week trips) and internationally (2 week trips) annually. I have Global Entry which has eased most of the stress of going to the airport even though I often travel domestic.
Personal Item: TNF Isabella Backpack (work) or some other slightly larger backpack for personal travel.
Carry-on: Briggs & Riley expandable luggage This has a legit lifetime warranty. If you travel a lot, just buy it, you won't regret it.
Organization: I mainly use these Eagle Creek Packing Cubes and the Eagle Creek Specter Packing Cubes in a variety of sizes and colors. The specter cubes are great because they're so lightweight (and the colors are better and they make compression versions) but I cannot easily access items as the regular packing cubes. I fill the cubes by stacking all of my unfolded tops on top of each other and then fold all layers together and pack it neatly in one of the cubes. If there's any extra space, I'll fill it with small items that are ok if they're wrinkled. I'll do the same method for any pants/skirts etc. All important electronics (chargers, battery packs, cords), a small amount of meds, snacks, makeup (extra moisturizer or face mask for the plane), noise cancelling headphones, misc valuables will always be in my personal item. I use a regular quart sized ziploc bag to carry my toiletries and the non liquids will be organized in this Muji Hanging Organizer. I'm obsessed with Muji's travel containers, especially their pump bottles as they're easy to use and do not leak but are pricey. Socks/underwear and other small items are stuffed into shoes and plastic shower caps are used to cover the soles of shoes and protect them from getting other items dirty.
I keep all of my packing lists in a google doc and organized by frequent destination (work trips) or specific climates (cold weather vs beach trips). This helps me ensure I have every item I need and I'm not racking my brain for what I forgot from the last trip. For international trips, I will also make a doc of all the important addresses (lodging), phone numbers, emergency contacts, flight details etc and print a couple copies for my luggage (place in protective plastic sleeve and slip into outer pocket of luggage) and email a set to my parents and siblings so they aren't worried.
Yes! I use packing cubes and a shirt folder which helps save space and is much easier for packing and unpacking!
cubes and folder
It's been a while since I've commuted by bike so I can't really comment on backpacks. I'm sure tons of new ones have come out in the last few years.
However, when I did have to carry clothes I used a Eagle Creek Pack-It. The clothes fold up inside of it, and then you stick it inside your backpack. It keeps slacks and shirts wrinkle free.
http://www.amazon.com/Eagle-Creek-Travel-Pack-It-Folder/dp/B002YIRBU8/
Some thoughts:
My GR1 is one of the best pieces of gear I own, flawless for my needs. Here's a comment I left a month or so back with a few pouches/organization stuff I use inside my GR1. I plan to do a video of my setup, been perfecting it over the years and some may find it useful. Here's the list of stuff I use inside my bag:
Toiletry kit (I love the mesh top and little handle) - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00F9S8DK2/
This is what I keep my portable battery and charging cables in -
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B014PM4AL8
I use several of these amazing Kifaru pullouts (the large mesh for my rain coat, the ultralight small for my vape and extra cartridges, the 500d small for my "possibles kit", and I keep a xlarge ultralight tucked in the little inside pocket for wet clothes or shoes to go in) - https://store.kifaru.net/500d-pullouts-p185.aspx
Ultralight pullout here - https://store.kifaru.net/ultralight-pullouts-p22.aspx
I use a Tactical Tailor Fight Light Admin Pouch in the upper molle area for my pens/notebook/sunscreen/hand sanitizer/small screwdriver..etc - https://www.tacticaltailor.com/fightlightadminpouchenhanced.aspx
This is what I use for my first aid kit (perfect size imo)- https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01LZWEIQE
And I use one of these amazing quick clips from Alldayruckoff to clip gloves and a small fire kit and my keys if I need to clip them inside - https://alldayruckoff.com/store/gear/hk-quick-clip/
I have these -- this is just one set, there's are lot of other sizes that are sold as sets or individually. I've heard the eBags brand makes really good ones as well.
It keeps everything really organized. For shorter trips, I pack an outfit per cube and then you just open the cube and have everything right there. But longer trips (when I don't have enough cubes per day) I organize them by category. So for this trip, I have sweaters in one cube, leggings in one cube, jeans/nicer pants in one cube, etc etc. It keeps everything nicely contained and you can really fit more in your suitcase with them.
You can find them cheaper, but this is what I use. It makes a world of difference! ... another trick to use with or on it's own is the "ranger roll" technique... YouTube has loads of videos on how to perform. Just another way to keep it clean and easy to pack... while not wrinkling your clothing.
1 large for bulky items( pants, sweater, etc)
1 medium (shorts, shirts)
1 small (socks, underware)
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BYFC4Z4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_CtBxCb1XC0W31
It took me forever to find a backpack that was "professionally appropriate" for my type of work. I finally got this one from Solo about 6-7 years ago when I had an enormous laptop ("lapserver" as we called it) and it's been excellent. (It still looks brand new after several hundred thousand miles of weekly travel.) It has pockets in all the right places and a nice minimal aesthetic. To keep it organized even further (cables, dongles, etc.) and help me rapidly switch to different bags, I use Eagle Creek Pack-It Sacs.
I use this: http://www.amazon.com/Eagle-Creek-Travel-Pack-It-Folder/dp/B002YIRBU8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1343245463&sr=8-1&keywords=eagle+creek+pack+it
I pack up the night before and just toss this and my lunch in my pannier and hit the road in the morning. I keep an extra pair of dress shoes and a belt in my file cabinet.
Will do. I ordered https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B078RQYLD6/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
What is your budget? When you say traveling, do you mean international travel or more local weekend trips?
If he travels internationally, a fancy passport holder or some luggage tags are nice. You can also get him some packing cubes. Eagle Creek has nice ones and once you pack with them, it's hard to do without them. They sell them at Big 5 as well. Also, an overnight toiletry bag can be handy.
http://www.amazon.com/Eagle-Creek-Travel-Pack--Starter/dp/B00F9S84D8/ref=sr_1_2?s=apparel&ie=UTF8&qid=1450722787&sr=1-2&nodeID=15744041&keywords=eagle+creek+packing+cubes
Yeah it's sold by NeatPack on Amazon. Here's the link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B017X2WJME
I'm gonna revisit the imgur album today to make sure I mentioned everything I liked and didn't like about what I took. I'm sure I missed something. Thanks for the feedback!
Oooh I love it! I studied abroad last year and traveled a lot while I was there, so I was able to get a system down.
Most of my baggage is the Victorinox Avolve 2.0 set, which one hardside carry on that will fit international flight standards (also by Victorinox
I also swear by packing cubes, specifically the Eagle Creek Pack It Spectre system
Finally, for carry on and overnight bags, I use Longchamp. I think it's a classy brand whose bags hold up really really well over travel. I have the Longchamp Le Pliage backpack , the Le Pliage Neo tote, and for a weekender I have the Boxford weekender.
I love packing cubes and absolutely swear by them for organization and some compression. On the trip I just got back from, I used compression packing cubes and feel like I found the holy grail of packing. I bought the more expensive Eagle Creek ones and these packing cubes . I saw no difference in quality between the less expensive option and the Eagle Creek bags. I love them and the small ones work the best for me. I put them vertically into the valleys created by the handle in my rolling bag.
I also love the fact that I can slide them into drawers or onto shelves in a hotel room and it’s more sanitary.
Repacking is a breeze.
Love them !
Two things on your comments regarding bags that just have one large compartment and documents.
Even the cheap ones look decent and the fold-over means even if you have to get it out of your bag, contents aren’t seen.
Example: https://www.amazon.com/Looneng-Clipboard-Folder-Padfolio-Vertical/dp/B07D1JL7PZ
Garment folder: https://www.amazon.com/Eagle-Creek-Travel-Luggage-Garment/dp/B00F9S819U
Cubes: https://www.amazon.com/Eagle-Creek-Travel-Luggage-Pack/dp/B00F9S85CS
Oops, yeah I totally forgot to take and upload some pics. I'll see if I can get some uploaded soon.
My thoughts so far: I'm very happy. I think the mini is the perfect size for how I pack (minimally and light). It's actually larger than I thought it would be even though I did check the measurements.
The canvas is really nice. Strong and clearly will be able to take a beating. The zippers run smooth and without any catches. Love the leather handles. Sturdy and smooth, soft leather.
The one downside is probably the strap. It's not bad at all, but when the bag is packed fully, I can see it messing with my shoulder if I have to haul it for prolonged times. I might look at buying the leather strap they sell as an upgrade.
I took the bag on a weekend trip and I had plenty of room to spare. A bit too much, actually. I could probably go for an even smaller version of this bag as a weekender. The mini to me will be a fine week long trip bag.
To give an example of what I packed (I use Eagle Creek packing cubes. this set: Eagle Creek Travel Gear Pack-It Cube Set and this set of "pack-it sacs" Eagle Creek Travel Gear Pack-It Sac Set), here's a list (I'm borrowing size references from one of the amazon reviews):
On the way down the clothes in there were:
Coming back I was wearing the shorts, so the jeans I had been wearing on the way down were packed instead.
All of that fit with enough room in the bag to still be able to collapse the top part of the bag down. It had a good 5" or so to spare as clearance still.
The other thing I will mention is that the good and bad of the canvas is that the bag has no shape on its own. Until you stuff it with your gear, the bag is going to flop in on itself. This is bad if you do not have the bag packed enough to give it some shape. This is great if you plan on packing this bag into a bigger bag on a trip. It folds down smaller than a pair of jeans.
Hope that helps!
I'll try and get pics up soon.
Any idea if he already owns packing cubes? These are a lifesaver for traveling and staying organized.
Edit: Oops, I should stop grabbing links from Google. Fixed the link.
I use these http://amzn.com/B007NZVY32 . Eagle creek seems to make the best packing cubes. I use to have these http://amzn.com/B00DDTO3O4 but they are a flawed design because the mesh easily gets broken then your clothes fall out.
Here you go: Packing Cubes Compression Set for Carryon Travel- Luggage Organizer Bags https://www.amazon.com/dp/B078RQYLD6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_IQiQAbQH2QCMK
I have this brand of packing cubes too but a different set, where one of the sizes is long and thin. I can easily do two of the smaller with the long one beside it, and it fits just fine with room at the top of the bag for a pair of shoes or whatnot.
I use alameda compression cubes that are very similar to the eagle creek compression cubes. So far they are great and they are cheaper.
Packing Cubes to keep pants in one cube, shirts in another, undies in another, and so on. Trust me, this will save so much space, and it will keep your suitcase organized! If you don't want to buy packing cubes, use ziploc bags, will work the same way. Also, roll your pants instead of folding. Lastly, have an amazing time!
The Capitals are the best hockey team in the world
How do you like the Gonex cubes? I'm considering those or these from Amazon.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B014VBGUCA/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
What did you use for a camera bag?
I recently picked this up from amazon and have seen it highlighted in another thread. Haven't used it yet, about to leave on 11 days in Australia though. It seems fairly compact and well organized.
I'll check out those videos. That Sony is a perfect travel camera. Make sure you get lots of practice before you leave.
I was gone for two weeks in September and didn't go much into the Alps or anything, so I could pack pretty light. One pair of shoes (light, breathable, grey, not flashy), 4-5 pair of ExOfficio boxers, 5 pair of socks, belt, swim shorts, mesh shorts, cargo shorts, and a nice pair of grey pants, a nice button down long sleeve, a breathable polo shirt, and a few band tshirts. About 4-5 total outfits, I bought a few shirts on the trip too. My socks and shoes ended up being a terrible combo becasue I got terrible blisters from all the walking I did after only a few days. My fault for not testing new stuff before I left.
I knew that I would want to do laundry, and a few of my AirBnBs had that. I did have to kill 90mins in Florence one night doing laundry. Not a big deal. Again, if it wasn't for all my camera stuff, I would heave easily fit everything into my one backpack. But during transit days, I had my larger backpack and a cheap, smaller, packable daypack. Then when I got to the hotel/AirBnB, I unloaded the small pack and took that out with me. I'd put my camera and an extra lens in there, maybe some snacks and water, and maybe a different shirt. This was a great system for me.
One final tip would be get a set of packing cubes, they're great for staying organized and keeping dirty clothes away from clean. I love these which compress the stuff inside: amazon.com/gp/product/B06Y3P22BR/
One other complication was that on my return trip from Milan to Frankfurt, Lufthansa forced me to check my heavy bag for being overweight whereas United didn't care when I left from Chicago. But you probably won't have an issue with that.
Thank you for that info! Would you say the Amazon Basics work as well as the Ebags? Also, have you used any other traveling backpacks? If so, what would you recommend?
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B014VBIEZQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_nkZszb5ZW3B35
That Vapur water bottle and the Shackle cubes are not 'the best' in their categories. I'm sure they are fine, but neither were recommended here and there are much better choices for both.
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I would replace with these:
My Eagle Creek Quick Trip is holding up very well. I've never been a fan of leather and similarly fancy dopp kits - when I inevitably spill half a bottle of shampoo in it, I like to be able to machine wash it.
https://www.amazon.com/Compact-Toiletry-Personal-Organizer-Resistant/dp/B01BJ63280/ref=pd_sim_198_1?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B01BJ63280&pd_rd_r=080GS9ZHXRB9MR3ZWYVV&pd_rd_w=mlpLi&pd_rd_wg=4dSYo&psc=1&refRID=080GS9ZHXRB9MR3ZWYVV
NeatPack Compact Hanging Toiletry Bag. Main pocket has smaller elastic pockets to hold bottles up-right and in place. 2 smaller pockets on side that I keep nail clippers and q-tips, clear pocket on top I put a small shatterproof mirror. It's just big enough for essentials.
You have to just test it, homie.
Get a set of multiple sizes: https://www.amazon.com/Packing-Various-Travel-Luggage-Organizers/dp/B01IB8Q9HA
That Zappos item you linked is for dress shirts / shirts and will fit in the GR2 and is not actually the same as the garment folder that is linked by Curri.
What you linked: https://www.amazon.com/Eagle-Creek-Pack--Garment-Folder/dp/B00F9S81KY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1466710767&sr=8-1&keywords=eagle+creek+garment
Try this, works great, fits in your tail bag or maybe larger saddle bag. I've used it to carry the next day's work clothes when going to my GF's overnight.
http://www.amazon.com/Eagle-Creek-Travel-Pack-It-Folder/dp/B002YIRBU8
Have you been on /r/onebag? Handy sub for this stuff. You can travel with far less than you think you need to. Long but hopefully helpful post ahead!
I did a week in Canada (in the cold so with thicker clothes) with a 30 litre backpack. I'm also fat, so my clothes are bigger than realistically they should be too! I got this list of stuff into this Osprey Momentum. The only thing that didn't go in was obvious stuff like jeans as I only took 1 pair, shoes as I only had 1 pair, a hoodie as I only took the one, my belt then the few toiletries we bought when we got there. The rest went into that bag - it was snug but keep in mind my clothes took up more room than they should've done so if you're a wee rake you'll be fine.
I'd take half the stuff and wash it half way through unless you can get 10 days of clothes in your bag rolled up (see below - there's another bit about packing clothes). If you can't be bothered/don't have time to find a laundrette, boxers and trainer socks can be done in the sink/bath in 10 minutes with travel detergent (you can buy it in travel sized containers so you can take it hand luggage - Dr. Bronners is apparently very good and it's all super eco-vegan-peace-fairtrade rated if that's your thing) and with it being warm they'll dry in a few hours if you hang them on the balcony if you've got one. Get it really soapy, scrub them against each other then put them on a laid out towel and roll it tightly to wring out any excess water then hang them over something.
Another tip for packing your clothes - do not fold them! They take up far too much room like that - what you need to do is "Skivvy Roll" your clothes instead. You end up with a burrito of clothes that is easy to grab and you know there's a t-shirt/underwear/socks in one little package. It does mean you need to spend a bit of extra time learning how to do it and it can be a bit fiddly if you haven't done it before, but it saves loads of room and definitely saves you time when you're getting ready. It's a technique used by armed forces and they've got a premium on space as well, so it's about as small a space you'll take up with your clothes. I've got a disability that affects my fine motor control and I can manage it though, so it's not particularly hard it's just learning how to do it. I've converted a few people with it and they're amazed how small stuff packs with it. Packing cubes are also a lifesaver as well as you can split everything up into categories - clothes, gadgets, toiletries and so on. No rummaging around in your bag for stuff - pull out a packing cube and bang, there's your stuff.
Buy your toiletries when you get there - Boots will mug you something rotten and they're only going to be the little travel ones. If you get them when you land then they'll be proper sized, probably half the price and even if you don't use it all then it's not a huge tragedy to bin what's left at the end of the trip. Also means less weight to lug around as well. I tend to use whatever's left during my last shower of the trip though, so I might spend half an hour in the shower just soaping up with huge amounts of everything if I've got loads left but that's just because I'm a bit odd. :|
Try to take some re-hydration tablets though, it's dead easy to not drink enough and end up quite unwell if you're not careful. Heatstroke and sunstroke shouldn't be arsed around with, it's a lot more serious than people think. Also... IMODIUM. You will need them at some point.
Final point (although again, this is because I travel with medication a lot and I have to be on the ball with it if I don't want to be arrested!) - make sure you've got proof from your doctor if you've got any prescribed medication, and only take as much as you need in the proper box/bottle with your name on it. Any prescription drugs (or at least controlled substances) need to be declared at customs once you pass through immigration - but check if what you're prescribed is legal where you're going. Having a UK script for drugs that are illegal in another country doesn't get you a free pass, they'll nick you for drug trafficking and stick a torch up your arse for good measure.
It seems expensive, but having unwrinkled clothes and not digging around all the time made life easy. I have this set https://www.amazon.com/Eagle-Creek-Specter-White-Strobe/dp/B007NZVY32/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1491579748&sr=8-3&keywords=eagle+creek+specter and the Folder size Medium. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00M2IO0H2/ref=twister_B011RYXY96?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I use Eagle Creek Pack It Quick Trip Toiletry Organizer, Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00F9S8YTM/ It packs well for travel and has a mesh side where I can store a damp brush. This is big enough to carry a puck in a ~5oz container, bottle of aftershave, bottle of cologne, brush, razor in case, alum block, toothbrush, nail clippers, comb, and a small jar of pomade.
For protecting the DE, I have this Parker Safety Razor's Felt Lined Genuine Leather Double Edge Safety Razor Protective/Travel Case https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001O8NCI4/ which I highly recommend. It fits a Fat Boy and other similarly sized DE's.
For storing blades, I use two Altoids minis tins. One for new blades, the other for used. I have a blade bank that I keep at home to properly dispose of the blades.
The only thing I haven't quite solved is a bowl for lathering. I don't like the face lather as it screws up my face making it red. So I either make it on my hand, of find a glass, mug, or bowl at my hotel. I'd love to hear ideas to travel with a bowl.
I've yet to fly with this setup. I plan to just throw a disposable in there and empty the DE and Altoids tins. Then pray that I can find a pharmacy that sells DE blades at my destination.
Good luck and safe travels!
not a copy in the print, but in the design of the compression bag. pretty sure eagle creek were the first to do compression bags and the build of OPs is spot on with eagle creeks.
I’ve been using the eagle creek pack-it sac for a couple years.
Eagle Creek Travel Gear Luggage Pack-it Sac Set, Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00F9S8RL2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_a-g1Cb0SRAC5Z
I’ve been using probably the smallest one? It’s borderline too small. Like when its got other things in there getting a full size toothbrush requires the proper angle. Not a lot of organization unfortunately, but definitely keeps one from overpacking.
This is the one I use and love. Love being able to hang it up and it’s very lightweight and flexible.
Compact Hanging Toiletry Bag & Organizer | Water Resistant, Mesh Pockets Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B017X2WJME/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_Ayh1Cb5ZVV3CG
I like them because they're ultra-lightweight, durable, and translucent enough to get an idea of what's inside. They're made.of a siliconized nylon that "slides" very well, so you can actual stuff a decent amount in a small space and be able to drag what you need out easily.
My usual cold-weather packing list uses the compression cubes (linked) and the smaller 2-sided Clean/Dirty cube. The larger of the two compression cubes easily holds a pair of pants, a sweater, and two or three t-shirts. The smaller compression cube holds a down jacket and gloves. The Clean/Dirty cube holds my socks, underwear, and whatever I sleep in.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BYFC4Z4/ref=twister_B00F9T852C?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
It's not $5, but it's close. I honestly wouldn't want to go any cheaper than these bags, as I don't want my shit falling apart in my main bag.
Eagle creek bags: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00F9S8DK2
They make them in different sizes which is nice. That one is the quarter cube.
My husband was actually the main traveler before we met. He had never heard of them either and actually said they were unnecessary when I ordered some. Now he steals mine.. Lol.
Here is the set I have and they look brand new after almost 4 years of travel (and sharing them with my husband!). I really enjoy them!