Packing problems refer to a class of optimization challenges where the goal is to arrange items within a defined space efficiently. These problems can involve various constraints, such as the size and shape of the items and the available space, making them relevant in fields like logistics, manufacturing, and computer science. Common examples of packing problems include the knapsack problem, where items with different values and weights must be selected to maximize value without exceeding weight limits, and bin packing, which focuses on minimizing the number of containers needed to store a set of items.