How to Pack a Car, Tetris-Style

With travel season upon us, everyone is planning their next adventures, deciding where to go, what to do, who to take along, how to get there, and what to bring with them. The last part can be the most stressful part of traveling by automobile. Whether it is for the duration of the trip or just a drop-off, how you get everyone and everything in your vehicle can almost determine how the trip will turn out. Since what to bring is always a struggle, think of it this way: packing up your Nissan is part-art and part-science.  

Recently, a British Tetris champion named DanV completed a car-packing challenge that tested how much could be loaded into a vehicle. He has some tips for you based on his experience with the Tetris game.  

For starters, stay organized. DanV explains that “just like in Tetris, recognizing patterns and knowing the shapes you might encounter is key—identify and categorize your items by size and type. This way, you’ll know exactly where to place your beachwear, snacks, and other essentials, ensuring everything fits perfectly.” 

DanV also suggests that you keep everything compact. He said that “in Tetris, creating gaps can lead to difficult situations, and packing is no different. Compress flexible items like clothes to minimize the space they occupy. By maximizing every inch of your luggage, you can fit more items into smaller spaces without leaving gaps.” 

Lastly, just pack light. DanV also explains that “the Tetris matrix has limited space and overloading it can lead to game over. Similarly, avoid packing unnecessary items like heavy jackets. Focus on bringing just the essentials and summer necessities like shorts and sandals to keep your luggage light and manageable.” 

What if you’re traveling in winter? You may have to take those “heavy jackets” and leave the “summer necessities” at home. Always consider the time of year and climate you are traveling in and simply pack accordingly.  

Nissan’s vehicles offer plenty of space to bring everything and everyone along. The 2025 Armada can seat up to eight people with a generous 20.4 cubic feet behind the third row of seats. Our popular 2025 Rogue can seat up to five and has 36.5 cubic feet behind the second row. Both vehicles are among a great lineup of Nissans worthy of your Tetris skills in packing up for the road ahead. 

Want to see what you can pack inside of a new Nissan? Contact us at Dick Smith Nissan of St. Andrews to check out our lineup of great vehicles. We are the home of the Dick Smith Advantage.