No excess baggage, no packing stress: the Sudoku method
12/5/2026
Translation: Natalie McKay
Every holiday starts with packing. So you might fall at the first hurdle. In the worst-case scenario, you won’t have enough with you, but most of the time you’ll end up with far too much. Either way, it’s annoying – but I’m pleased to report this issue’s now a thing of the past. Let me introduce you to the Sudoku method.
Don’t worry – you don’t need a puzzle book or a pencil, and you won’t have to figure out the right place for a three or an eight in the next few minutes. Instead, all it takes is nine items of clothing.
Well, that’s stretching the truth a bit. Of course, you’ll need underwear and socks, shoes, a bag, your toiletries and maybe gear for swimming or working out. It depends on what kind of traveller you are. But for all your everyday outfits – and I mean a ridiculous number of them – you actually only need nine items of clothing. Let me explain.
Sudoku packing, also known as the 3×3×3 method
The 3×3×3 packing method, as it’s known, is currently going viral on social media. It’s got a shorter and catchier name there: Sudoku packing. The concept’s so simple that it sounds too good to be true: you simply pack three tops, three bottoms and three layering pieces (such as a jacket, shirt, or pullover), and use this core collection to create at least 27 different outfits. This Sudoku grid will help you keep track of everything:
Source: Laura Scholz
Still sceptical? I felt exactly the same way. So I’d like to use a specific example to show you that this method really works. POV: I’m packing my suitcase for a (very) long weekend in Amsterdam and bringing the following three tops, bottoms and layers with me. Just to cover all bases, I’ll also throw in two pairs of shoes and a bag. Job done.
Source: Laura Scholz
And now it’s time to start experimenting with the endless possibilities. Putting together each outfit with exactly three pieces gives me 27 in total. If I start figuring out the possible combinations of just two or even four items… my brain just can’t cope. But the fact remains: the Sudoku method’s amazing and really works.
Source: Laura Scholz
Will you try this Sudoku packing method on your next trip, or do you perhaps have an even better tip? Let us know in the comments.
And if you like the look of the items I packed, you’ll find them here:
Header image: Ron Lach via Pexels
Laura Scholz
Senior Editor
Laura.Scholz@digitecgalaxus.chAlways in the mood for good hits, great trips and clinking drinks.
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