How to Pack Anything

Smart strategies for stowing your belongings, from accessories to sleepwear.

Accessories (Earrings, Necklaces, Scarves)

•  Keep necklaces protected and kink-free "by threading them through drinking straws, then putting the filled straws in toothbrush holders," says Anne McAlpin, author of Pack It Up.
• Store earrings in a day-of-the-week pill container, or cut out a small cardboard square and punch them through.
• Put all the jewelry you intend to wear with a certain outfit in a sandwich bag and pin it to one of the clothing items.
• Toss silk scarves near the top of your bag to prevent them from getting crushed.

Belts

• For narrow belts: Wind them into coils and place each one in a zipper-sealed bag. Put every bag in a shoe.
• For larger versions: Fit them around the edges of your bag. Their size and width make them less likely to snake about.