Essential travel packing hacks for a hassle-free Eid trip
Whether you’re heading back to your hometown or jetting off for a festive getaway, a well-packed bag can make your journey smoother, save you from unnecessary stress and even help you avoid extra baggage fees.
PACKING for a trip during Eid al-Fitr can feel overwhelming—there’s always the fear of forgetting something important or overpacking items you won’t even use.
Whether you’re heading back to your hometown (balik kampung) or jetting off for a festive getaway, a well-packed bag can make your journey smoother, save you from unnecessary stress and even help you avoid extra baggage fees.
With the right strategy, you can fit everything you need while keeping your luggage light, organised and hassle-free.
From packing your best Raya outfits to ensuring you have all the essentials for visiting family and friends, these travel packing hacks will help you prepare efficiently for the festive season.
Roll, don’t fold your clothes
One of the biggest packing mistakes people make is folding their clothes like they would in a dresser.
While this may seem neat, it actually takes up more space and leads to unnecessary creases. Instead, rolling your clothes is the way to go.
For even more efficiency, consider using packing cubes to separate different clothing categories—such as your Raya outfits, casual wear, and sleepwear—making it easier to find what you need without creating a mess.
If you’re bringing delicate or formal Raya clothes, such as baju kurung or baju Melayu, place tissue paper between layers before rolling to prevent wrinkles and maintain their crisp look.
Use compression bags for bulky items
Hari Raya celebrations often involve visiting multiple homes, which means you might need to bring extra outfits, prayer attire, and even gifts.
Sweaters, telekung, or baju kurung can take up too much space in your luggage. Instead of stuffing them in haphazardly, use compression bags to remove excess air and flatten them.
Simply place your clothes inside the bag, seal it, and roll or press it to expel the air.
These airtight bags save space and keep your clothes protected from moisture and odours, especially if you’re travelling to a humid destination.
Pack multi-purpose items
Every inch of your suitcase matters, so opt for items that serve multiple functions.
A lightweight shawl or selendang can double as a prayer mat, a makeshift pillow, or even a cover-up for modest dressing. A pair of versatile shoes can work for both family gatherings and casual outings.
For added convenience, bring a foldable tote bag for carrying duit raya packets, souvenirs, or extra items you might receive during your visits.
Store liquids in travel-sized containers
Hari Raya celebrations may call for special perfumes, attar, or skincare products, but carrying full-sized bottles is a waste of space and often leads to messy spills.
Transfer liquids into travel-sized containers or opt for solid toiletries like shampoo bars and soap sheets.
To prevent leaks, place a small piece of plastic wrap over the bottle’s opening before sealing the lid. Store liquids in a waterproof bag to protect your clothes from spills.
For a lighter, eco-friendly alternative, opt for solid perfume, toothpaste tablets, and compact makeup essentials.
Utilise every nook and cranny
Many travellers don’t realise how much unused space they leave in their luggage. Every empty corner or gap is an opportunity to store small items more efficiently.
Stuff socks, innerwear, or small accessories inside your shoes to save space and help them maintain their shape.
Use suitcase pockets for jewellery, phone chargers, and other small essentials. Pack heavier items at the bottom, layer softer clothes in the middle and place delicate items on top to prevent damage.
Stack songkoks or hats inside each other and fill the crown with belts or scarves to maintain their shape.
Create a ‘first-day essentials’ pouch
After a long journey, the last thing you want is to rummage through your entire suitcase looking for a toothbrush or a fresh change of clothes. Pack a small pouch with first-day necessities—such as travel-sized toiletries, a fresh pair of innerwear, and any medication you may need—so you can easily access them without unpacking everything.
Additionally, keep a set of Raya clothes and accessories easily accessible in case you need to change quickly for a family gathering or a prayer session.
Keep important documents digitally and physically
Losing important travel documents like your passport, flight tickets, or travel itinerary can turn any trip into a nightmare.
Always carry both digital and physical copies of these documents. Store scanned copies on your phone or in cloud storage and keep a printed backup in a separate bag.
For local travels, ensure you have your identification card, vehicle registration, and toll cards ready for smooth transit. If you’re flying, have your boarding pass and hotel reservations easily accessible.
Pack smarter, not heavier!
Mastering the art of packing doesn’t just make travelling easier—it helps you feel more in control and ready for any adventure. By implementing these essential hacks, you can maximise your luggage space, keep your belongings organised, and ensure that you have everything you need without the burden of overpacking.
As you embark on your Hari Raya Aidilfitri journey, try these tips and experience the difference a well-packed bag can make! Selamat Hari Raya and safe travels!
Download Sinar Daily application.Click Here!
