How to Pack–And Not Overpack–For Vacation
A short time ago, I went on a week-long vacation with my family to The Bahamas. It was glorious–perfect temperatures, crystal-clear waters, friendly people, wonderful memories. However, even when I’m away, my mind sometimes brings me back to what I do for a living. This time, it happened at the airport when I saw a woman who overpacked and was flagged by the ticketing agent. Clearly frustrated, she had her clothes and belongings scattered on the dirty airport floor, hurriedly trying to reposition everything in her suitcases to disperse the weight evenly. She was already late for her flight and I later saw her looking very stressed in the security line. I hope she made her flight. I also wished someone had helped her pack before this happened.
When I pack to go on vacation, it’s deliberate and with intention. I only pack what I know I will wear. I know it’s often difficult to decide what is truly essential for your trip, but how many times have you come home from a trip only to realize you didn’t wear half the items in your suitcase?
Here are some simple tips to help you pack only what you need, avoid overpacking and ensure you’re not stressing out in the airport:
Make at least a basic itinerary. Try to outline what you’re planning to do each day. Think about any activities, excursions, and fancy dinners or events.
Consider wearing the same outfit on your travel days–both to and from your destination. Additionally, layering your outfit as much as possible (while keeping comfortable) definitely saves space. Also, if you’re going to bring sneakers on the trip, you may want to wear them to travel since they take up space in your suitcase and they’re comfortable to wear in an airport.
Start with the undies. For one week, you’ll need two to three bras, seven pairs of underwear, plus two pairs of pajamas.
One week=three complete outfits. You can choose your three favorite, most comfortable, and appropriate-for-the-destination outfits. The key is to be sure you can mix and match the items to give you some options. For example: One pair of jean shorts, a wrap skirt, a jumper/romper; one white button-down that can be worn as a bathing suit cover up as well; two t-shirts and two tank tops. This list gives you some options for versatility and doesn't take up much room.
Are you active on vacation? Bring two pairs of gym shorts or leggings and two tops for exercise/walking/hiking excursions. You can always air out one outfit or hand wash it while you’re using the other.
Add specific shoes or outfit only if necessary. For example, if you have a zip-line excursion planned, you can most likely use your running/exercise shoes. Same rule applies if you have a fancy evening or special occasion planned. Only bring what you have planned on the itinerary.
Are you getting in the water? You really don’t need more than two bathing suits with cover ups. One suit for fashion, the other for comfort. Remember to rinse your bathing suits with freshwater and line dry each day. I actually wrote an entire post about caring for your swimsuit. Check it out.
Going to the beach? I recommend one sundress, one sweater/sweatshirt, one sunhat, and two extra pairs of shoes (flip flop and espadrille).
When you pack with intention and restraint, you’ll quickly get used to taking only what you need–and you’ll enjoy a lighter suitcase and the feeling of freedom and flexibility that goes with it. For more tips on packing more effectively, check out my packing hack for vacationing with kids or contact me today to help you shop and plan for your next trip!