Do you have a problem with over-packing for your vacations? If any of the scenarios below sound familiar to you, you my friend, are an over-packer!
- If you get to the airport for a 5-7day trip and your bag is over 50 pounds, you might have a problem.
- If you get to the counter and you’re worried that your bag might be over 50 pounds, you might have an over-packing problem. I mean, what happens if you want to bring back souvenirs?
- If you’ve ever found yourself on the ground at the airport with all of your suitcases open trying to redistribute the weight into different bags to get one under the 50-pound limit, you definitely have issues!
- If you’ve ever had a hard time getting on or off an escalator with your bags, you probably don’t know how to pack light.
- If you pack multiple sweaters to go to the Caribbean in the summer, you need to read the tips below!
- If your bag topples over when you let it go, you definitely have an over-packing problem.
- If you have to sit on your suitcase to close it, don’t be ashamed, you’re not alone.
- If your hard-shell suitcase is lumpy and bumpy, you over-packed it.
- If you have trouble getting your luggage in and out of your car, you might be an over-packer.
- If you use your carry-on bag or your personal bag to pack things you couldn’t fit in your checked luggage, you have a problem.
The good news is, you’re not alone!
It’s estimated that about 62% of Americans over-pack for vacation. Even though a lot of people over-pack, most of them know it’s a bad habit and makes their travels more difficult. So, here are a few tips to help you scale back the next time you pack
Spread out everything: Before you put anything in your suitcase, spread everything out. That means clothing, shoes, and accessories. This way, if anything looks excessive, you can see it plainly and scale back.
Don’t pack for maybes and what-ifs.… Only pack for your plans that are set in stone. Of course, there is a huge chance you’re going to get up at 6 am to catch that morning yoga class. I believe you. But just in case you decide to sleep in (especially if that’s what you’ve done in the past), maybe leave your workout wardrobe at home.
Do a dry run: This is important. Pack your bag completely. Once that’s done, take a little walk. Maybe walk around the block with your bags. This should give you a good idea of what it’ll be like to go through the airport. If you struggle on your walk, you’ll struggle at the airport.
Check your resources: Before you start packing check with your resort, hotel, or cruise ship. Do they have laundry facilities on-site? If the answer is yes, you can simply wash your clothes instead of taking everything with you.
Pack smarter: Be sure you’re doing a good job of taking advantage of all the space in your suitcase. Packing cubes are a great way to pack and stay organized while avoiding the bulk.
Buy local: If something unexpected comes up and you don’t have what you need for the day, guess what? You can find what you need on vacation!! You’ll get to go shopping, find unique pieces, and contribute to the local economy.
You don’t actually need ALL those shoes: I know but hear me out. The shoes are bulky and heavy, and you most likely won’t wear them all. So, focus on a few great pairs that are comfortable, and versatile.
Remember the Motto: As you pack, remember to say this motto a few times.
Remember, in your travels, you’ll meet two kinds of tourists - those who pack light and those who wish they had! Don’t be the latter, you’ll regret it at some point.
