How to Pack Clothes for Moving Without Losing Your Mind

August 2, 2021 / Posted in How-to
Hannah Michaelson

Hannah is a freelance relocation writer from NYC that has become an expert on packing and unpacking

No matter how exciting the journey itself is, the struggle is real when you’re not sure how to pack clothes for moving. Your closet reminds you of a babushka doll with stuff popping up, and you have no idea how to keep everything organized, clean, and wrinkle-free. However, we figured out some good ways to keep your sanity and get you all prepped for the long-expected move.

A person preparing wardrobe for cross-country moving
With the right tips, relocating your wardrobe from one place to another won’t be such an intimidating task

The First Step You Should Take When Packing: Sort Everything Out

Assuming that a successful relocation is what you aim for, you can’t let yourself dive into packing without a proper organizational plan. Since accumulating stuff over the years will certainly not make the job any easier, finding your way around it is the easiest way to pack and understand what you need to deliver items to your new home safely. Of course, think about hiring cross-country movers if you’re not sure you can do everything yourself.

Get Rid of the Stuff You Don’t Need Anymore

Figuring out what not to pack is sometimes even more difficult since many people are attached to their belongings. However, we’re sure you can make some piles get rid of in no time, like “the outgrown pile” or ” the outworn pile”. Also, keep in mind that the best way to deal with things you don’t need is to pack them for someone in need. Finally, finalizing the purge by donating unwanted stuff to organizations looking forward to wardrobe donations, like the Red Cross, is the most humane way to leave things behind.

A girl near her close with a pile of clothing over her preparing for long-distance moving
Relocating from your old home to a new one is much simpler with a good plan

Handle Your Clothing Strategically

When packing clothes for moving, thinking of a strategy will surely help you move efficiently. Sorting items by material, season, size, and need is the best relocation hack that will quickly lead you to become a professional relocation strategist, even if this might be your first move. On the other hand, if you don’t want to risk being stuck with your wardrobe far too long, many cost-effective long-distance moving services can come in handy, like professional packing, for example.

What Should I Pack First?

You have one rule here to follow, and it’s quite simple: box up the items you use the least first. Also, you can think in terms of the current season. For example, if you’re relocating to a new state during the winter months, box up all the summer clothing first. The same goes for your shoes.

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How to Pack Clothes for Moving: Use Regular Cardboard Boxes

When it comes to learning how to pack clothing, cardboard boxes might be one of the most convenient solutions because of the low price and protection they provide. Still, choosing the best-sized boxes is somewhat tricky because you never know the precise size of the move and the stuff you own. If you want to make sure you have the best way to pack clothes for a move, don’t just throw the piles inside, but think carefully about the most suitable folding technique before stacking them.

A couple boxing up their stuff for long-distance moving
Regular cardboard containers are always a smart idea

Use Vacuum Bags for Winter Attire

If you’re wondering how to pack clothes for a move or, to be more precise, how do you pack bulky clothes for moving, don’t forget that these items contain a lot of air and between the fibers. You can save up a lot of space simply by removing the air, and vacuum bags – also known as compression bags – will make that possible. Put your winter coat or a jacket in the bag and suck all the air up with a hand pump. Everything will easily fit into the box, and you’ll have a much higher chance of a stress-free relocation.

You Can Also Use Moving Bags Instead Regular Boxes for These

Moving bags for clothes are a budget-friendly alternative that will allow you to box up and protect bulky clothing. They are durable and much more convenient to transport. They are an ideal solution for both attire and shoes.

Hanging garments packed and ready for cross-country moving
You will easily save space and box things up with vacuum bags

An Easy Solution for Hanging Garments

The best way to move clothes from your hangers and keep them wrinkle-free is not such a tall task with wardrobe boxes available. Specially designed for relocating your hanging attire, they have a built-in metal hanger for your dresses, skirts, trousers, or other stuff. Although they are a bit more pricey than regular cartons, they are worth the investment, especially when it comes to your favorite outfits.

Dresses hanging on a clothing rack ready for long-distance moving
Putting some money aside for specially designed boxes will save your favorite outfits

Tips on Using Suitcases for Footwear

If you are wondering how to pack clothes when moving without spending money on far too many boxes, suitcases are an option, especially when packing your shoes. The most simple solution to safely deliver your precious collection of shoes is to stack them inside. Of course, protecting them with packing paper or some other wrapping material of your choice is an absolute must beforehand. Nevertheless, you won’t find a better place than suitcases for your footwear.

To learn more about packing your footwear when traveling, check out the video below.

Ready to Get Going

You don’t want to turn packing into the most time-consuming journey you’ve ever embarked on. Although there is no one best way to pack clothes when moving, these certainly must be the crucial points to remember to save time and energy, but even more importantly – nerves. Finally, you’re armed with the most effective tips on how to move clothes without a hassle for once.

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