Packing List – A Week in Hand Luggage with Bamboo Basics

Short answer: A week in hand luggage calls for clothes that take up little space, can be worn several days in a row and dry quickly after a hand wash. Bamboo basics meet all three requirements: underwear, T-shirts and socks in bamboo smell less than cotton and can therefore be packed in fewer pieces.

Why bamboo wins in the suitcase

Bamboo viscose moves moisture away and slows down the bacterial growth that creates odour. That means a T-shirt can often be worn an extra day, and that you can get by with fewer changes. Three or four sets of bamboo underwear for men or bamboo underwear for women will take you a long way.

The packing list itself

For a week: four pairs of briefs, four pairs of socks, three or four T-shirts, a pair of long trousers or shorts, a light sweater and a set of nightwear. Choose bamboo T-shirts for men or bamboo T-shirts for women in neutral colours that can be mixed and matched.

Washing along the way

Bamboo can be rinsed in the sink in the evening and is usually dry the next morning if you roll it in a towel first. See more advice in our washing guide for bamboo clothing, and find the socks under bamboo socks for men.

Frequently asked questions

How many sets of underwear should I pack for a week?

Four sets are usually enough, because bamboo smells less and can quickly be hand washed and dried along the way.

Does bamboo clothing take up less space than ordinary clothes?

Bamboo viscose is thin and supple and can be rolled tightly, so it takes up less space in the suitcase than thicker cotton.

Can I wash bamboo clothing in the sink while travelling?

Yes, rinse it in lukewarm water with a little soap, roll it in a towel and hang it up to dry overnight.