Today’s NYT Strands leans into travel prep and everyday carry. If you’re playing along and want a nudge—or the full board—everything you need is below. You can play the daily puzzle in the NYT Games hub at nytimes.com/games/strands.

Today’s Strands (October 9, 2025): theme and spangram

Item Details
Puzzle number #585
Theme Just in case
Topic focus Packing essentials for a backpack or carry-on
Spangram PACK IT UP
Word lengths 6–10 letters

Spoiler‑free hints if you want a nudge

  • Theme clue: daily essentials you take with you.
  • Think travel: items you don’t want to forget.
  • Electronics first: what powers your devices on the go.
  • Essentials only: grooming to garments.
  • Carry‑on approved: compact and useful.
  • Spangram hint: picture what you do right before zipping the bag.

Full Strands answers (spoilers)

Answer type Entry What it refers to
Spangram PACK IT UP The phrase that sums up the theme
Theme word LAPTOP Portable computer for work, school, or streaming
Theme word CHARGER The cable/brick that keeps devices powered
Theme word HEADPHONES Audio gear for music, calls, or quiet time
Theme word CLOTHES Garments you pack as basics
Theme word TOILETRIES Personal care items you use daily

How Strands works

  • Each daily grid hides words tied to a single theme.
  • Words can run horizontally, vertically, or diagonally and can change direction.
  • Every letter is used exactly once across all theme words and the spangram.
  • The spangram is a theme‑defining word or phrase that touches two opposite sides of the grid.

How to earn and use in‑game hints

  • Find any non‑theme word of at least four letters to bank a hint.
  • Each valid extra word earns one hint.
  • Spend a hint to auto‑reveal one theme word’s letters on the grid.
  • Tip: save hints for when the board feels locked; one reveal often unlocks the rest.

Today’s board is a light lift if you think like a packer: tech, basics, and daily care. If you’re chasing a clean grid without hints, anchor “PACK IT UP,” then route the essentials around it.