By Stefanie Michaels
I’m a light packer, because after years of lugging check-in bags, waiting for bags due to missed or delayed connections and actually losing expensive suitcases all together, I’ve learned how to pack at least two weeks into a carryon. Yes, TWO WEEKS! (Once I achieved this on a European ski trip).
So, how do I do this? Well, I use space saving bags, but that’s for another story.
When packing for a trip, it’s important to be selective about what you bring with you in order to avoid overpacking. In fact, I always suggest leaving behind things like soaps and shampoos if heading to a city, then purchasing it there. By the time you add up checked baggage and overweight bag fees, you might as well have left them home. That is, unless you are traveling to the outback, and then who cares about shampooing anyway!
Here are a few things that you can consider leaving behind:
- Heavy books and magazines: You can read e-books or use apps like Audible to listen to audiobooks instead. Just make sure you don’t leave electronics behind going through TSA or on the back of the seat in front of you.
- Multiple pairs of shoes: Stick to a few versatile options that can be mixed and matched with different outfits. I typically bring one pair of walking shoes, a pair of low heals that can transition from day to night, and a pair of flip-flops for the pool and beach.
- Excess toiletries: If you have to…just bring travel-sized versions of the essentials, like toothpaste, shampoo, and soap. Or, as I noted above, ditch them completely and purchase at your destination. I then, leave them behind.
- Duplicate items: Avoid packing multiple versions of the same thing, like numerous t-shirts or pairs of jeans. I usually bring one pair of jeans, a pair of leggings— either I wear on the outbound plane, a few tops, a couple of skirts, and dresses. Why pack so lean? Because, knowing you have a carry-on with space makes shopping overseas for cute items way more fun!
- Bulky items: Leave behind anything that’s big and bulky, like a sweater or coat that you won’t need in a warm climate. For the air-conditioned plane, I use a light sweatshirt jacket and if you have to bring something, use a space saving bag to make it as small and compact as you can.
- Irreplaceable or expensive items: Leave at home anything that would be hard to replace or costly to lose. In fact, I never bring anything anymore of value, mostly opting for costume jewellery instead. First, you become a target and secondly, you become a target. So, why not just go bling-less and feel safe instead.
- Over the Counter Medications: If your travel to a different country, OTC medication might not be available, is a good idea bring a prescription instead. Always check with the country you are heading to and see what is acceptable to bring in.
- Bulky cosmetic cases: Unless they are thin, skip it. I’ve opted for ziplock plastic bags on occasions, when I needed extra space savings. Plus, TSA will thank you for using them.
