You’re Overpacking! Here’s How to Lighten Up When You Travel
We’ve all been there before… We haven’t even made it through airport security, and we’re already struggling with heavy bags falling off our shoulders or heavy suitcases that put a strain on our hands and arms.
Overpacking is so easy to do. We think about the “what ifs” when we’re in a new place and want to have all the assurances and comforts of the things we think we “need” back home on a day-to-day basis. But the truth is, we have to let a lot of that go when we’re “on the road.” We can shift our mindsets, travel lighter, and focus on what truly matters – the memories in the making.
If you’ve had one of those grueling experiences where you felt like you were lugging a baby elephant through the airport and hotel, we’re here to offer some tips and tricks to help you lighten the load. Ready to trim the proverbial fat and have a lot more fun out there?
Rethink Your Philosophy
The ol’ cliché about “less is more” definitely applies to overpacking. When you think about how grueling it is to lug heavy suitcases, backpacks, and tote bags through an airport, train station, bus terminal, or hotel, it’s easy to promise yourself to try to go lighter next time.
Leave “Just In Case” Behind
Most destinations have stores where you can buy essentials you may need along the way. And, isn’t it better to make those purchases abroad than pay a hefty fee for a bag that’s over the weight limit at check-in? Unless you’re going somewhere truly remote, leave the “just in case” items behind. Be honest with yourself. Will you really wear or use that item? Are you sure?
Pack for Versatility
Not only do you have to get honest about whether or not you’ll really wear or use that item, but you also have to ask yourself if it will serve multiple purposes. One of the biggest overpacking traps is bringing outfits for every possible occasion – a special event, a hike, a poolside lounge. It’s easy to think you need a separate outfit for every occasion. But this couldn’t be more wrong!
Dress Up and Dress Down
So, what does “versatility” really mean? The trick is to pick clothing that can be dressed up or down. For example, a lightweight dress can work for sightseeing during the day or casual dinners at night. One way to dress it down is to add tights to the look and a comfy pair of shoes. Ideally, that same dress should also be able to be dressed up for a nice dinner with the right shoes and accessories. Try to think in neutral tones, as well – neutral-colored tops and bottoms that can mix and match to create multiple outfits.