The New York Times - A bag for your bags

My giant bag is like a piñata—except if I shook it, instead of candy, more tiny little bags would fall out. Not as fun. Way more functional.

Long gone are the days of just throwing things into my tote. Anytime I reach into it, I pull out one of three smaller bags. They are my bags-in-a-bag, and they all serve a distinct purpose.

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I have a mid-sized zip-up for a Tide to-go pen, aspirin, napkins, and hand sanitizer; a leak-free silicone one for travel-sized makeup; and a third that carries my computer, headphones, and other tech accessories. Thanks to my Russian-nesting-bag situation, I always know exactly where to find the thing I need.

This strategy is even more useful when traveling with luggage. When I’m on my upcoming 10-day vacation, I’ll keep clean clothes from mingling with dirty ones using a mesh bag. In my carry-on, I’ll use a dopp kit to separate my skincare from my makeup.

Packing your bags with an eye towards compartmentalization is an easy way to stay organized while maximizing the space.

I welcome you to join me. Bags in bags. It’s a lifestyle. You won’t ever go back.