Packing for a trip can be stressful. We often stuff our suitcases with things we think we’ll need, only to find they never leave our bags. It’s like we’re preparing for every possible scenario, even if it means lugging around extra weight. But do we really need all that stuff?
The truth is most of us overpack. We bring items “just in case” that end up taking up space and making our bags heavier. This can lead to extra baggage fees and sore arms from carrying too much. To help you travel lighter, I’ve put together a list of 12 things people often pack but rarely use on vacation.
Hairdryer
Most hotels provide hairdryers these days. Even budget places often have them. If you’re staying somewhere that doesn’t, you can usually get by with air drying or a quick towel dry. Hairdryers are bulky and take up a lot of space in your bag. Plus, they might not work with the electricity in other countries.
Too Many Shoes
It’s tempting to bring shoes for every occasion, but you probably only need two or three pairs. A comfortable walking shoe, a nicer shoe for evenings out, and maybe flip-flops for the beach are usually enough. Shoes are heavy and take up lots of space. Try to wear your bulkiest pair while traveling to save room in your bag.
Full-Sized Toiletries
Those big bottles of shampoo and lotion are heavy and might leak in your bag. Most hotels provide basic toiletries. For anything else, buy travel-sized bottles or fill small containers from your big bottles at home. This saves space and weight, and you won’t have to worry about liquids rules for carry-on bags.
Laptop
Unless you’re working on your trip, you probably don’t need your laptop. A smartphone can handle most tasks like checking email or looking up directions. If you need a bigger screen, a tablet is lighter and easier to carry. Leaving your laptop at home also means less worry about it getting stolen or damaged.
Too Many Clothes
Many people pack an outfit for every day of their trip, plus extras. But you can wear things more than once, especially jeans and sweaters. Pack clothes you can mix and match to create different outfits. If you’re going for more than a week, plan to do laundry instead of packing more clothes.
Beach Towel
Beach towels are big and bulky. Most hotels near beaches provide towels you can use. If you’re staying somewhere that doesn’t, you can usually buy a cheap towel at your destination. Another option is to bring a lightweight, quick-drying travel towel instead of a regular beach towel.
Guidebooks
Guidebooks are heavy and you probably won’t use most of the information in them. Instead, tear out the pages you need or use travel apps on your phone. You can also take photos of important pages before you go. This saves space and weight in your bag.
Jewelry
Expensive jewelry can make you a target for thieves. It’s also easy to lose when you’re traveling. Unless you’re going to a special event, leave valuable jewelry at home. Bring a few simple pieces that go with everything if you want to dress up your outfits.
Too Many Gadgets
Between phones, tablets, e-readers, cameras, and other gadgets, it’s easy to overpack electronics. But do you really need all of them? Your phone can probably do most things these other gadgets do. If you bring other devices, remember you’ll need chargers for all of them too.
Iron
Most hotels have irons you can use. If you’re worried about wrinkles, pack clothes made from wrinkle-resistant fabrics. You can also hang clothes in the bathroom while you shower – the steam often gets rid of wrinkles. Rolling clothes instead of folding them can help prevent wrinkles too.
Snorkel Gear
If you’re going to a beach destination, you might be tempted to bring your own snorkel gear. But it takes up a lot of space. Most beach areas have places where you can rent snorkel equipment cheaply. If you really want your own, consider just bringing a mask and renting the rest.
Umbrella
Umbrellas are awkward to pack and easy to forget in hotel rooms. Instead, bring a light rain jacket or poncho that can be folded up small. These are easier to carry and can protect you better in windy rain. Many tourist spots sell cheap umbrellas if you really need one.
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