How to Avoid Overpacking
Moderation is key when packing for any trip. A good rule of thumb is to pack approximately half of what you initially think you're going to need. Here are a few steps to help you pack lightly for your next getaway.
- Difficulty:
- Moderately Easy
Instructions
Things You'll Need
- Luggage Locks
- Luggage Sets
- Local Guidebooks
- Maps
- Airline Tickets
- Credit Cards And Loans
- Travelers' Checks
- Backpacks
- Fanny Packs
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1
Know your itinerary. If you know about the dressy events, casual evenings and business days you have in store, you can plan accordingly and avoid bringing unnecessary outfits.
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2
Research the weather at your destination. If summer days are notoriously dry, take a risk and skip the umbrella; if nighttime temperatures are known to plummet, pack layers for warmth.
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3
Plan your clothes around one main coordinating color. Black and khaki are good, neutral 'foundation' colors that you can dress up, down, add color to and accessorize for different events and different days. Consider bringing dark colors and prints that don't show dirt.
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4
Choose clothes for lightness and washability. Select several light layers that pack down easily and dry quickly, should you need to do hotel-room washing on the fly. Avoid bulky items like sweaters and heavy coats if you can be comfortable in two to three interchangeable layers.
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5
Pack a couple of favorite scarves or belts for variety.
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6
Pack a fanny pack or small backpack for day trips. If you're planning to shop, pack a lightweight duffel bag.
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7
Wear your bulkiest outfit while traveling to save space in your luggage.
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Tips & Warnings
Even if traveling for several months, you should never need more than five or six days' worth of clothing.
Check with your airline regarding restrictions on size, weight and number of luggage pieces allowed. Most major U.S. airlines allow three pieces of luggage, two of which may be carried onboard.
For more comfortable traveling, each bag should weigh no more than 20 lbs. when fully packed.
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Comments
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grannykaren
Aug 30, 2010
Great article. I will be flying soon and these tips help. -
A.M. Trent
Aug 30, 2010
12 Baskets, I don't think the author means for free. That depends on the airline. However, I enjoy the tips, especially the ones about using foundation colors like black or khaki (though blue jeans are also good if you're not going for business). Many colors do go well with black. Also, kudos to wearing the bulkiest clothing onto the plane. Another tip I would like to add is to make sure you do your research on international restrictions before flying overseas. I know when I went to England in 2007 they only allowed one carry-on and not two on the way back home, so I had to wear three layers of pants in order to pack everything. The security guard wasn't happy with this, but she searched me a couple more times and allowed me onto the plane. However, you live and you learn.
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writer7
Aug 30, 2010
Thanks, this article should help considerably with my tendency to over-pack.
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bandgard
Aug 30, 2010
I am a huge over-packer, especially when I have my car to take the trip on. However, I have wanted to reduce my luggage, and thanks to your article and tips, I can.
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vgodonnell
Aug 30, 2010
12 Baskets: 3 pieces of luggage is accurate. Note that the article states: Most major U.S. airlines allow three pieces of luggage, two of which may be carried onboard Most US airlines allow you to check 1 bag and bring on board 1 carry on and 1 "personal item"
