Vacations are for relaxation and rejuvenation, but you may find yourself burdened with unnecessary items that never see the light of day. Although you have the best intentions to use these items, they remain untouched throughout the entire trip.
So, how do you avoid this? We’ve listed many commonly packed items that rarely get used so you can streamline your packing process. This way, you avoid unnecessary fees, pack lighter, and enjoy your travels more.
1. Excessive Clothing
Packing extra outfits seems like a good idea, especially if you’re unsure what to wear for certain activities. However, it’s easy to overpack, even for a trip that’s only a few days long. Consider that you can build multiple outfits by wearing the same pants. For example, you can alternate wearing the same jeans but wear a different shirt. To avoid overpacking with clothes, plan your outfits ahead of time.
2. Too Many Shoes
Avoid overpacking shoes by choosing one or two pairs for the entire trip. Remember that you’ll wear a pair to the airport and only need to pack a second for the trip. Avoid thick shoes and stick with slim shoes that easily fit in your luggage. Additionally, avoid putting your shoes in separate boxes or containers that take up extra space.
3. Full-Size Toiletries
Unless necessary, avoid taking full-sized toiletries. You can find smaller sizes in most pharmacies, and the TSA only allows toiletries 3.4 ounces or smaller anyway. Otherwise, you’ll need to add these items to your checked bag to take them on your trip.
4. Heavy Books
Most of us have the best intentions to read while on trips. It doesn’t always happen. However, it’s still not a bad idea to read, even if just on the plane. Consider purchasing an audiobook or taking a Kindle. These options are light and will allow you to read during your travel.
5. Formal Wear
Formal wear is usually packed “just in case” you end up attending a fancy dinner. However, unless you’ve planned for this, it’s a waste of space. Odds are that you may still be able to attend fancy dinners in casual clothing. Many resorts and locations near the beach don’t ask you to wear a suit or dress.
6. Gadgets
If you have a lot of electronics, think ahead which will be relevant to your trip. Your smartphone and charger are essential. Multiple rechargeable batteries are not. Most airports have charging stations, and it’s smart to charge your phone prior to arriving at the airport.
7. Hair Styling Tools
A simple call to the hotel or Airbnb you’re staying in will save you the hassle of taking any hair dryers or straighteners. Hair styling tools take up extra space, and their plugs may be incompatible in other countries. Besides, you’ll most likely be doing casual activities on your trip and have little to no need for hair styling tools.
8. Beach Towels
Beach towels tend to be bulky and take up extra space. On top of this, you’ll have extra laundry to do during or after your trip. If you’re camping or staying in a hostel for part of your trip, consider packing a small, quick-drying microfiber towel. Most hostels also offer towels for a small fee, and hotels will usually provide towels and wash them for you.
9. Multiple Bags
First, ensure you’re only taking necessary items. That way, you’ll avoid paying fees for additional luggage. Carrying more bags will make traveling more challenging when walking around the airport. Additionally, going through bag drop and security at the airport can take up valuable time.
10. Travel Iron
Avoid tiny irons that appear travel-friendly. They are cumbersome, and you will most likely not use them. If you’re traveling for a formal event like a wedding, most hotels and Airbnbs have irons. Otherwise, you won’t need perfectly pressed clothes on vacation.
11. Jewelry
It may be common sense for some, but avoid taking jewelry when traveling. At best, you’ll constantly have to store it away to avoid losing it. Even if you pay insurance for your jewelry, insurance companies generally cover only a portion of the value.
12. Excessive Makeup
It’s not worth bringing excessive makeup on a trip. You’re better off packing light makeup for the moments you really want it. Most of the time, you may find yourself at the beach or in locations where the weather isn’t friendly enough for makeup.
13. Rain Gear
Instead of packing thick jackets, consider taking a light rain jacket and purchasing an umbrella when you land at your location. Large jackets typically won’t fit in carry-on bags, and if they do, will take an enormous amount of space.
14. Snacks
Packing large portions of snacks doesn’t make sense for several reasons. Assuming you’re able to get them past airport security, you’ll most likely have leftovers and end up throwing them away. Instead, if you must, pack light snacks and purchase more upon your arrival.
15. Workout Gear
Traveling for vacation doesn’t mean you have to skip your workout sessions. However, overpacking workout gear will quickly take up unnecessary space. Consider taking only one or two workout outfits and washing them at your hotel or Airbnb. Additionally, you can repurpose the clothes you wore the previous day to work out and leave them in a separate pile to wash later.