Generally, it's better to roll clothes because it takes up less space and allows you to pack more while reducing wrinkles. However, rolling clothes is time-consuming, so folding can also be efficient depending on the type of clothes you're packing and your available space.

For most travelers, rolling is superior to folding because it maximizes space and minimizes wrinkles in synthetic and cotton fabrics. Tightly rolled "sausages" eliminate the hard creases caused by folding and allow you to see every item in your suitcase at once. However, folding is better for structured or bulky items like blazers, dress pants, or heavy wool sweaters, which can become misshapen if rolled. In 2026, the most efficient strategy is a "hybrid" approach: roll your T-shirts, gym wear, and jeans into packing cubes, but fold your formal attire and lay it flat on top of the cubes. This combo protects delicate fabrics while ensuring you can fit 20% more into your carry-on.