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How tidying expert Marie Kondo packs for travel

  //travel-leisure.news-articles.net/content/2025/ .. tidying-expert-marie-kondo-packs-for-travel.html
  Published in Travel and Leisure on Wednesday, October 22nd 2025 at 19:00 GMT by Channel NewsAsia Singapore
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Marie Kondo’s Travel‑Packing Philosophy: Turning a Suitcase into a Joy‑Sparking Space

The world‑renowned tidying guru Marie Kondo has turned a seemingly mundane activity—packing for a trip—into a miniature manifestation of her celebrated KonMari method. In a feature on Channel News Asia, Kondo shares how the “spark‑joy” principle that has reshaped households worldwide can also streamline the way we pack for travel. The article offers a practical guide that goes beyond the usual travel tips, emphasizing emotional and mental preparation as well as physical organization.

1. The KonMari “Spark‑Joy” Filter for Travel

Kondo’s first rule is to consider whether each item will ignite happiness in the context of the journey. She explains that the same idea that helps us decide what to keep in our homes can help us decide what to carry in a suitcase. “If it does not bring joy, it does not belong in your bag,” she says. This mindset forces travelers to evaluate the true value of each clothing piece, accessory, or gadget before it becomes a weighty addition to their luggage.

The article notes how Kondo’s approach reduces decision fatigue during the trip itself. By traveling with only items that genuinely satisfy, the traveller can avoid the stress of rummaging through a cluttered carry‑on to find the right thing. Kondo stresses that this approach isn’t about extreme minimalism; it’s about mindful selection.

2. Packing in a Systematic, Layer‑by‑Layer Way

Kondo recommends a structured, almost ritualistic packing process that aligns with the KonMari style. First, lay out all the items on a clean surface. Next, create a “joy‑zone” for those pieces that spark immediate delight. Items that are essential but less exciting—such as socks or toiletries—are placed in a separate zone for quick access.

The guide further introduces the use of “packing cubes,” which Kondo herself has popularized in her book “The Life‑Changing Magic of Packing.” These cubes compartmentalize items by category, making it easy to pull out a specific group without unpacking everything else. She demonstrates how to roll clothes instead of folding, which saves space and reduces wrinkles. A video linked within the article shows Kondo rolling a t‑shirt into a small, efficient bundle that fits neatly inside a packing cube.

The article also covers a practical tip that Kondo herself follows: shoes are packed last. By stuffing socks and small items into the shoes, they serve a dual purpose—protecting the footwear and maximizing space. She adds that a well‑packed shoe also doubles as a buffer for fragile objects.

3. Versatility and Multipurpose Gear

One of Kondo’s key recommendations is to choose clothing and accessories that can perform multiple functions. A simple black dress, for example, can be dressed up for a dinner and dressed down for a casual stroll. “The fewer the number of distinct outfits, the fewer items you need to carry,” Kondo says. She encourages travelers to bring neutral pieces that can be layered, allowing for adaptability in different climates or social settings.

In addition, Kondo suggests bringing travel‑size toiletries, a lightweight jacket that can be used in different temperatures, and a reusable water bottle. The article links to a “travel‑sized” section of a well‑known online retailer, which lists recommended items for minimalist packing.

4. Mindful Packing for Mental Well‑Being

Beyond physical organization, Kondo emphasizes that packing is an opportunity to reflect on what matters most. She advocates for a brief meditation or gratitude practice before closing the suitcase. “Take a moment to appreciate the little things you’re bringing with you,” she tells Channel News Asia. This practice, she says, sets a positive tone for the trip and reduces the likelihood of impulse purchases that can lead to unnecessary baggage later.

The article notes that travelers who follow Kondo’s method report a sense of calm even before they depart. By limiting the number of items, they also experience less logistical friction when going through airport security and when navigating unfamiliar cities.

5. Extending the KonMari Mindset to All Aspects of Travel

Kondo’s travel‑packing guide is not an isolated exercise; it is part of a broader lifestyle philosophy that extends to all aspects of her work. The feature includes a link to Kondo’s own podcast, “Tidying Up with Marie Kondo,” where she discusses how the KonMari method applies to relationships, careers, and even digital spaces. Readers can listen to her recent episode that delves into “Digital Minimalism” and how to clear the clutter of their online lives.

Another link directs to her recent book, “The Life‑Changing Magic of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering and Organizing,” which has sold millions worldwide. In the book, Kondo explains that the joy‑spark principle can be applied to a wide array of contexts—ranging from home décor to office organization. The article highlights a section of the book where Kondo talks about the importance of “starting with the end in mind,” a principle that helps travelers envision their ideal, uncomplicated experience.

6. Practical Takeaway: A Quick Checklist

At the end of the article, Kondo provides a concise packing checklist that readers can print out or copy into their phone:

1. Identify Joy Items – List items that spark joy; keep only those.
2. Use Packing Cubes – Separate by category (clothes, toiletries, electronics).
3. Roll, Don’t Fold – Save space and reduce wrinkles.
4. Pack Shoes Last – Use inner space efficiently.
5. Limit to One Wardrobe – Choose neutral, versatile pieces.
6. Mindful Closure – Take a moment of gratitude before sealing the bag.

This checklist underscores the core message of the article: that the act of packing can be a transformative ritual, encouraging travelers to reflect on their priorities and to create a travel experience that is as joyful as it is functional.

Conclusion

Marie Kondo’s travel‑packing advice, as outlined in the Channel News Asia feature, reframes packing from a chore into an intentional practice that can set the tone for the entire trip. By applying the KonMari principle of “spark joy” to every item, travelers can reduce physical baggage and mental clutter alike. The article’s links to Kondo’s books, podcast, and a demonstration video provide readers with actionable tools to bring the KonMari method into their own journeys, ultimately turning a suitcase into a space of clarity, comfort, and confidence.