When the fishbowl gets too small, it’s time to pack up and leave and jump into the lake or ocean.

Travie McCoy

We all know that person. The one who packs 9,000 things for a weekend trip to the next town over. We have all over packed at some point in our lives. I had multiple friends visit me when I lived overseas who packed an entire checked bag just for their shoes… Over packing is a universal problem, or so it seems.

I’m here to help! I might not be able to get you to pack less, but I can at least guide you to packing more strategically. Besides, we all need room in our suitcases for those incredible travel finds. Take a look at my suggestions below of what to ditch when packing and what to pack in its place. You’ll save space, time, and money! I know I have!

Shoes

Pack This: Walking Shoes Not That: High heels

I’ve never been the type of woman who wears heels. A small heel on my boots, sure but never anything substantial. I never know how women walk around all day in shoes that look like they are designed to murder your feet, they are definitely a huge no for travel. They take up space and it’s very likely you will not be able to walk around all day in them.

Pack a pair of comfy flats or shoes that you know you can spend hours walking in without getting blisters or turning your knees into dust. They will look just as good without the pain, plus they take up half the space in your luggage.

Electronic Hair Care Products

Pack This: Headbands Not That: Hair dryers, curling irons, etc.

I promise you, you don’t need to bring a hair dryer, straightener, curling iron, or whatever else you use on your hair. More likely than not, your hotel will have at least a hair dryer. We women are wizards when it comes to our appearances. Why pack something that takes up SO much space and weighs a significant amount when you could throw your hair up in 2 seconds, throw a headband on and be out the door in MUCH less time?

Pants

Pack This: 1 pair of jeans and leggings or athletic pants. Not That: Multiple pairs of jeans

Jeans are bulky. They are stubborn clothing to pack and take up more space than most other items of clothing. Try packing other types of bottoms to save space and give you more outfit options. Leggings are also easier to dress up, making it a better travel option due to its versatility.

Toiletries

Pack This: Travel-sized toiletries Not That: Full-sized toiletries

Do you dream of being one of those people who rolls into an airport with nothing but a carry on? I’ll share a secret. They don’t pack full-sized toiletries. Unless you’re going somewhere for over a month and that place doesn’t sell said toiletry, you can squeeze by with a small version for a few days!

Towels

Pack This: Travel towel Not That: Full-sized or beach towel

Drying off after a shower or a swim feels more luxurious with a big, fluffy towel. Unfortunately, it takes up valuable real estate in your suitcase. Your hotel or Airbnb will usually provide towels for your rooms, but many activities might require a towel. For that, try a travel towel. They are smaller in size, but are fast-drying and lightweight.

Electronics

Pack This: iPad or tablet Not That: Laptop

There’s always a possibility something will get lost or stolen on a trip. Make sure it’s not your laptop that contains everything you need for work and personally. Just think of the space (and worry) you could save by packing an iPad with some items uploaded onto it for what you’ll need on the trip!

Reading Material

Pack This: E-reader Not That: Multiple books

I love books and reading. I have a massive internal struggle whenever I go on vacation because I want to bring more books than I know I’ll actually read, plus reading an actual book brings me way more joy than doing so on a screen.

What I can’t deny is how much weight and space the e-readers save. Whenever I bring a book with me, I usually find a free library where I can donate my book when I finish it, so someone else can enjoy it. I’ll also bring magazines that I don’t mind giving away to fellow travelers once I’m done!

Got Anymore Tips?

Let me know in the comments! There will definitely be more posts about packing tips in the future and I’d love to feature ideas from my readers! Have you tried any of the tips above? Which ones did you like best!?