Packing for a trip can feel like a sprint, with clothes on the bed, toiletries on the counter, and a checklist that somehow keeps growing. For one dog owner, that hectic routine turned into a moment of pure comedy and charm. In a short video shared by the account @sleepydoggosimba on Instagram, the family suitcase became an unexpected hiding spot. The result was a calm, wide eyed pup who looked completely convinced he belonged right there.
The clip starts with a suitcase on the floor that seems ordinary at first glance. Then, as the camera lingers, a curious snout peeks out from the partially closed bag. When the owner lifts the lid, there is Simba, a Labrador mix with the look of a chocolate Lab, sitting inside as if it is his personal seat. He does not flinch or scramble away, and that calmness is what makes the moment even funnier.
Text on the video sums up the discovery in a simple line that instantly tells you everything about the scene. “I found someone hiding in my bag while I’m packing.” The wording makes it feel like a playful mystery, even though the “suspect” is right there in plain sight. Simba also seems completely unbothered about being “caught,” staying relaxed and comfortable like he has been planning this for a while.
It is easy to read the moment as a dog trying to stop a trip from happening, or a dog campaigning to come along. Many pet owners recognize the way animals respond when they see travel gear come out of the closet. Luggage can become a loud visual signal that a routine is about to change. For some dogs, that can mean less time with their favorite person, and they react in ways that range from clingy to downright theatrical.
There is also a simpler explanation that has nothing to do with protest and everything to do with comfort. Dogs are often drawn to small enclosed spaces because those spaces can feel safe and quiet. A suitcase can act like a little den, blocking some noise and reducing the visual commotion of a busy room. If the owner is moving quickly and the house feels chaotic, that enclosed space can look like the best seat in the place.
Scent plays a big role too, especially during packing. Clothing and personal items carry strong familiar smells, and dogs use that information to feel secure. A suitcase full of the owner’s things is basically a greatest hits collection of comforting scents. Curling up near that smell can be soothing, even if the dog is also hoping it increases his chances of being included.
Videos like Simba’s go viral because they capture an emotion people know well without needing any explanation. A dog does not need to speak to communicate, and Simba’s body language is unmistakable. He looks content, confident, and a little pleased with himself. The humor comes from the contrast between the owner’s busy task and the dog’s unshakable decision to settle in.
If your own dog tries something similar, it can help to treat it as information rather than misbehavior. Your pet may be looking for comfort, attention, or reassurance that you are still close. You can offer a cozy alternative nearby, like a favorite bed or blanket that smells like you. It also helps to keep packing low drama, since dogs can pick up on stress and mirror it.
There is one practical note worth keeping in mind, because cute behavior can still cause real problems. You do not want a dog jumping into luggage that might be moved, zipped, or lifted without checking. If your pet likes to climb into bags, make it a habit to look inside before closing anything. A quick check can prevent a scary accident, especially when you are distracted by travel to do lists.
Beyond this one adorable moment, Simba’s choice taps into a well known part of canine behavior. Dogs often seek den like spaces, which is one reason many of them enjoy crates when they are introduced properly. A crate can provide a safe place to rest that feels predictable and calm, rather than a punishment. When a dog chooses a suitcase, it may be chasing that same sense of security in the closest available option.
Travel routines can also highlight separation anxiety or simple attachment, and those are common topics among dog owners. Some dogs become uneasy when they see cues that predict alone time, like shoes by the door or a suitcase on the floor. Building positive associations with those cues can help, such as giving a chew toy or a treat puzzle during packing so the process feels normal. Consistent goodbyes and calm returns can also make departures less dramatic over time.
If you do plan to travel with a dog, general best practices can make the trip smoother for everyone. Updated ID tags and a microchip are basic safety steps, and bringing familiar items can help a dog settle in a new place. Sticking close to your normal feeding schedule can also reduce stress. For car travel, a secure harness or travel crate is safer than letting a dog roam freely while the vehicle is moving.
Simba’s suitcase stunt is a reminder that dogs are always watching, always learning patterns, and always looking for closeness. Whether he was trying to join the adventure or simply enjoying a cozy den, his calm confidence is what makes the video so charming. Moments like this turn ordinary routines into stories people want to share. Tell us what your dog does when the suitcase comes out, and share your thoughts in the comments.
