Weeklong vacations are that perfect balance between too short and too long—they’re not a weekend getaway that you barely feel, but they’re also not going to drain your annual leave quota. To make the best out of your week-long escapade, one of the buzzkills you really want to avoid is overpacking. So, before you start tossing everything but the kitchen sink into your suitcase, here are some tips on what not to take.
Too Many Shoes
The urge to have options for every occasion is understandable, but do you really need five pairs of shoes for a week? Opt for one or two versatile pairs that can take you from sightseeing to dinner without weighing you down.
Toiletry Overkill
Leave the mega-sized shampoo and conditioner bottles at home. Most hotels provide basic toiletries, and you can always pick up travel-sized essentials along the way.
Heavy Guidebooks
No more heavy guidebooks taking up precious space in your bag. Replace them with travel apps or use online resources for maps, restaurant recommendations, and insider tips.
Expensive Jewelry
While it’s tempting to accessorize, leave the bling at home. Wearing flashy jewelry while you travel can actually increase the risk of loss or theft. Keep it simple and focus on enjoying your trip.
Excessive Clothing
Do you really need that extra sweater? Pack strategically by choosing versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched. Check the weather forecast and pack accordingly, opting for layers for flexibility.
