Whether you’re planning a long trip and want to prepare for all weathers or just like having options on the road, it’s essential to be thorough when packing your suitcase. That said, tempting as it may be to include your entire closet, over-packing can lead to a host of complications and ultimately make travel more stressful than it needs to be. Read on for some of our tried-and-true tips to prevent over-packing.
Choose Versatile Pieces
One of the most effective ways to avoid over-packing is by sticking with versatile clothing that can be mixed and matched to create a variety of outfits. Prioritize pieces that you know you’ll actually wear, especially in neutral colors and timeless silhouettes that can be dressed up or down. As you pack, consider factors such as the climate of your destination and what activities you may have planned so that you don’t include any unnecessary items.
Downsize
The bigger your suitcase, the more likely you are to fill it with items you don’t need and potentially go over the weight limit allowed by most airlines. If you’re just going away for a couple of days, see if you can get by with a carry-on bag. For week-long trips, medium-sized suitcases of around 25” offer a convenient alternative to larger styles.
Do Laundry On the Go
This one may not be relevant for shorter getaways, but if you’re planning a trip of two weeks or more, see if you can find a place to do laundry rather than packing enough clothing for the entire time. Many hotels have in-house laundry rooms or outsourced services available for a fee, but you can also search online for local laundromats or even pick up a bottle of detergent and hand-wash dirty items in the sink.
