Article: The 5 Things You’re Overpacking- And How to Fix It!
The 5 Things You’re Overpacking- And How to Fix It!
Most of us are guilty of overpacking given that anxiety inducing fear of being stranded without the right thing to wear. When in reality, overpacking becomes a spiral of packing things that barely go together or that we would never even wear if we were at home! Yep- we have all felt it. The cure really comes down to taking a few extra minutes to actually think about what you're packing and also to minimize the below common overpacking offenders...
Overpacking Offense #1- Shoes for Every Scenario
The Fix: From casual sneakers to heels, sandals, and maybe even boots — just in case. The result: half the suitcase is footwear for “what-if” moments. A good rule to follow is for a 3 or 4 day trip- 3 shoes MAX! Of course this will be different depending on the person or travel destination, but you really only need the following: 1 pair that goes with your evening or dinner looks, 1 easy daytime sandal or flat (bonus points if this one can also work for dinner!), 1 athletic shoe or fashion sneaker, if you're not planning on working out. That's the basics!
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Overpacking Offense #2- Too many Separates, and nothing goes together
The Fix: You know the, "just in case" dress, backup tops, random knit skirt, or that blazer that’s chic but hasn’t been worn in a year- and after you get there haven't even packed what actually goes with those things?! Yeah that's why it pays to thoughtfully pack outfits. My rule? Pack at least one outfit per day- that is an outfit that goes together and makes sense for the destination. Once you do that you can fill in with other things. At least now you know when you arrive at your destination you will actually have outfits picked and not just 5 bottoms and 1 top!
Overpacking Offense #3- Full-Sized Beauty & Hair Products
The Fix: Shampoo, conditioner, serums, styling tools (maybe even a backup straightener). There’s comfort in the routine, even if it means checking a bag. 2 full sized items max- the rest- minimize them with travel bottles. I love the squeezable kind!
Overpacking Offense #4- Multiple Bags or Purses
The Fix: Crossbody for sightseeing, tote for shopping, clutch for dinner, backpack for airport — and maybe one “just in case.” My suggestion is to go for the rule of 3. 1 bag for day, something sensible to carry to dinner or for evening events, and something casual let's just a belt bag let's say for a walk or hike. Keep them neutral or in hues that you love so they can easily go with all the outfits you packed.
Overpacking Offense #5- Workout Gear You’ll Never Use
Sneakers, leggings, sports bras — packed with good intentions, but rarely see the light of day unless the hotel gym is really calling. Really think about how you are on vacation- only typically workout sometimes? 1 outfit will do and pack another that can also be worn as a going home or travel outfit should the workout never happen
