Why Ziplock Bags Are One of My Favourite Travel Tools  - And Why I Always Pack Extras!

When it comes to travel packing hacks, there’s one item I never leave home without – Yep -  Ziplock bags. 

(Or “zipper bags” -  ‘cause I am not promoting or making money from a brand.) 

Yep, the humble, resealable plastic bag might not seem glamorous, but trust me, it’s one of the most versatile and underrated travel tools you can pack.

I always travel with a variety of sizes, and here's why I love them and why you might want to add them to your travel essentials list.

Packing Toiletries Like a Pro

When I’m getting ready to leave home, I use small and large Ziplocks to organize toiletries in my checked luggage. Here’s my system:

•    Each liquid item goes into its own small Ziplock.
•    Then, I group those small bags into a larger Ziplock, press the air out, and seal it flat.

These flat-packed bags fit perfectly in the middle of my suitcase, surrounded by clothing for protection.
This method helps prevent leaks, keeps everything tidy, and saves space—especially important when packing for longer trips.

Have you ever arrived at a destination and found a liquid or gel exploded in your luggage from the pressure of flying?  Well, it may just be a matter of time.

Protecting Liquid Souvenirs
One of the joys of travel is discovering unique, local items—especially liquids like:

•    A one-of-a-kind spirit or liqueur only sold in that region
•    Perfume from a charming boutique
•    Specialty toiletries or spa products

Since these often can’t be carried in your hand luggage due to size, they go into your checked baggage. A sturdy Ziplock bag keeps them safe from leaks and breakage, and prevents your suitcase from smelling like a perfume aisle if something goes wrong!

Containing Scented Purchases

Ever brought home lavender from France or aromatherapy oils from Bali? They smell amazing… until the scent takes over your suitcase and your clothes smell like a soap shop for weeks.

Ziplock bags to the rescue again. Sealing scented items keeps those aromas contained, so you can enjoy them later without overloading your travel wardrobe.

Wet Swimsuits or Damp Clothing

Ziplock bags are lifesavers when:

•    Your swimsuit didn’t dry in time before checkout
•    You went hiking and your socks are… less than fresh
•    A sudden rain shower left something just damp enough to worry about

Tossing these items into a large Ziplock means the rest of your bag stays clean and dry.

Rainy Day Umbrella Storage

Ever walked into a museum or restaurant soaking wet, holding a damp umbrella? I keep a large Ziplock in my daypack or backpack just for this reason. It’s the perfect way to stash a wet, collapsible umbrella without dripping all over your other items, or your hosts!

What Else Can Ziplock Bags Be Used For?

Here are a few more creative uses I’ve either tried or heard from fellow travelers:

•    Organizing chargers, adapters, and cords (no more tangled messes)
•    Separating clean vs. dirty socks or underwear
•    Keeping snacks fresh on long flights or day tours
•    Holding travel documents or small receipts to track expenses
•    Emergency barf bag (hey—it happens!)
•    Protecting small electronics from water, sand, or humidity

Final Tip: Always Pack Extras

Even if you don’t need them on the way there, you’ll probably be glad to have them on the way home. I usually toss a few extra small and large Ziplock bags into my suitcase or backpack as they take up virtually no space and come in handy every single trip.  These bags are a cheap and economical way that are always giving. back when I travel.  Don't leave home without them.