I’m guilty of overpacking almost every time I travel. I just can’t help myself, although I have gotten better. I envy people who just carry backpacks and are totally fine. You probably notice that there’s a pattern with the items that you never use, but yet you still feel the need to include them. The end of this article discusses what I used the most and what I could have left behind.
This time I made a conscious effort to really think about past vacations and how many clothes I would realistically need. I’d like to follow the “minimalist packing” technique eventually, but for now I’m going to gradually dial things back. So, what makes us so insecure that we have to pack an abundance of items? Here are a few reasons why:
*Desire for comfort – people want to maintain their usual routine and feel at home
*Indecisiveness – unable to make choices regarding outfits prior to leaving
*Emotional attachment – some pack sentimental items
*Overestimating needs – many assume they’ll need more clothes or toiletries
*Rushed packing – procrastinators may throw in too much due to lack of planning
*Retail avoidance – individuals don’t want to spend money on replacements
This is what I packed for a 4-night, 3-day beach vacation. It was 80 degrees during the day and 68 at night. Michigan was cold when we left, so I wore my bulkiest clothes and sneakers on the plane.
Airplane outfit:
Black joggers
Graphic tee shirt
Light weight long sleeve shirt
Jean jacket
Trendy sneakers
Suitcase:
3 tank tops (hot pink, black, white)
2 shorts (cutoff denim, black)
Workout shorts, sports bra
White jeans, sleeveless silky blouse
Denim skirt, cropped lightweight sweater
Strapless sundress
Lightweight hoodie
Pajamas
3 swimsuits, 1 cover-up
2 socks, 6 underwear, 2 bras
1 pair of sandals
1 pair of flipflops
1 pair of wedges
Ball cap
Toiletries:
Contacts/solution
Makeup (2 eyeshadow sticks, eyeliner, mascara, blush, tinted moisturizer, 2 lipsticks)
Travel size mousse, hairspray
Deodorant
Toothbrush/toothpaste/floss
Q-tips
Face wash/moisturizer
Razor
Lip balm
Extras:
Mini Bluetooth speaker
Headphones
Cotton Turkish towel wrap
Journal/fancy pen
Bracelets
Curling iron
Hairbrush, hair ties, barrettes
Chargers for phone, watch, speaker
Canvas zip beach bag
Book
Packing Techniques:
*Roll your clothes
*Use packing cubes
*Wear your bulkiest items
Avoid Overpacking:
*Choose a small, lightweight bag
*Use the rule of three (3 tops, 3 bottoms, 3 shoes)
*Pack versatile pieces (neutral colors, multi-use items like a sarong as a scarf)
*Pack by outfit, not by item
*Limit shoes since they’re bulky
*Minimize toiletries (buy toiletries at your destination)
Do a final edit and ask yourself “Will I actually use this?” If not, leave it behind. Remember that if you’re traveling domestically, you can buy anything you need. It’s much easier to travel with less items. There are a few items in my list above that I’m questioning, but I guess we’ll see! Even though I’m only vacationing for 3 full days, I packed 3 swimsuits because I never know how I’m going to feel about how I look, even if I try them on prior to leaving; sigh…….
The Results:
With 4 of us traveling, we checked 2 suitcases and each carried a backpack that fit under the seat of the plane. My suitcase was smaller than the average size. I wore almost everything I brought except the extra bathing suit and ball cap. Technically, I could have packed less, but I don’t love wearing the same outfits over and over. The pool had music, so we didn’t need the Bluetooth speaker. I was mentally checked out and didn’t write in my journal or read my book.
Warmer weather is a game-changer, especially if you live in a cold climate. Getting outside in nature is beneficial for the mind and body. The beach is an ideal getaway that offers relaxation, adventure, and mental rejuvenation. Quality time with family is of the utmost importance, especially with the busy work, school, and sports schedules. It was the perfect way to recharge!
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Photo by: Maria Isabella Bernotti
