Pack underwear for a week's holiday without overpacking
Short answer: For a week's holiday you can make do with one set of underwear per day, or fewer if you wash along the way. Thin fabrics take up little room and often dry quickly, so choose a few pieces that can be combined and pack them in a bag.
How much underwear you need
The simple rule is one set per day plus one extra, but you can manage with fewer if you want to wash on the trip. Think about whether you have access to washing and how long it takes to dry. See the range of bamboo underwear for women and choose pieces you already know fit.
Why underwear takes up little room
Underwear is the smallest thing you pack, but many pieces can still take up room if they are thick. Thin fabrics such as viscose from bamboo can be rolled up and kept in a small bag. Roll the underwear instead of folding it, and you use the space in the suitcase better.
Choose pieces that can be combined
If you choose a few colours that go together, you do not need to pack extra. Neutral colours suit almost everything and do not show through light clothes. Also think about which clothes you take, so the underwear suits all the pieces.
Washing and drying on the trip
Many hotels and apartments have no washing machine, and then hand washing is a good alternative. Use mild soap, rinse well and hang the underwear to dry overnight. Thin fabrics often dry quickly, but that depends on the air, so expect it to take longer in damp weather.
Mind the drying time in damp weather
If you are somewhere with high humidity, it can take a long time to get things dry. Hang the clothes in an airy spot and avoid packing damp clothes. Bring a few extra pieces so you can change while others dry.
Think about the bra
A bra takes up more room than panties, and you may need fewer of them. Choose a model you can use for several purposes and bring two at most for a week. See also bamboo panties as a simple basic piece that is easy to pack and change.
Tops and layers
Think about the days when it gets cooler and bring a single layer that can be worn under other clothes. A women's long-sleeved bamboo T-shirt can be a good choice for flights, evenings and cooler days. Choose pieces that can be worn several times.
A simple packing list
Write a small list: number of sets of underwear, number of bras and any extra layers. Put the underwear in its own bag at the top of the case so it is easy to find. When you get home you can keep the list so you do not have to start from scratch next time.
Frequently asked questions
How many sets of underwear should I bring for a week's holiday?
A rule of thumb is one set per day plus one extra, but you can manage with fewer if you wash along the way.
How do I pack as compactly as possible?
Choose thin fabrics, roll the underwear and pack it in a small bag. A few colours that can be combined help you pack less.
What if the clothes will not dry?
Hang them in an airy spot and bring a few extra pieces so you can change while others dry. Never pack damp clothes.
