Packing fails to avoid

Sometimes it’s easier to make a list of what not to do, instead of what to do, especially in the case of packing! I used to be a chronic overpacker, until I studied abroad and was forced to travel on weekends with just a backpack (and then eventually an international-sized roller because I caved and bought a cheap one). 

I’ve definitely learned a lot about packing since then, so I thought I would share my failures in the hopes that you don’t make the same mistakes! Without further ado, here are the things I try *not* to do when I pack…

Bringing way too many things to do on the plane. 

I am guilty of this every time. I mean who ever does half of what they intend to on the plane? Homework? No thanks. Work? Mmm probably not. I almost always just end up watching a movie or spending my time listening to music (noise-cancelling headphones are where it’s at) and paging through a magazine I was tempted to buy at the airport. Or journaling, that’s my idea of heaven.

Not wearing layers on the plane.

This is the worst!!! A scarf is really the best way to avoid the chills because anything wrapped around your neck will warm you up quick. On the flipside, make sure you wear easy-to-remove layers in case the plane is uncomfortably warm. No one can ever predict what the temperature will be, so layers is best. (Honestly, the same goes for road trips.)

Not packing headphones with a jack (attn: airpod and newer iPhone owners).

I travel with two pairs of headphones (one set of earbuds, one set of over-the-ear noise cancelling) and usually end up handing off my earbuds to my friends who forgot a pair that will plug-in to the monitor on the plane. 

Packing too many shoes. 

If you’re only going to wear a pair of shoes once, it’s probably not worth it to pack them. For my Euro trip in January, I only brought my platform rain boots, slides, and shower flip flops (ya know, #hostellife). I debated bringing my leather booties but ultimately decided that my rain boots were fashionable enough to wear at night, and I could do without the second option. 

Forgetting comfortable shoes for walking.

This is crucial in cities like New York or Boston (or anywhere in Europe) where walking will be your main mode of transportation. I always like to take into account fashion, function, and comfort in my outfits when traveling, but truly comfort is the most important in footwear choices. Walk those miles but make it #fashion. 

Bringing clothes for the wrong climate.

This past weekend in Michigan I had to remind myself that I would be near Lake Superior, and it’d be much cooler than the city (a welcome relief!!). I was SO glad I thought about that while packing, because I ended up wearing my sweater or sweatshirt all weekend long. Similarly, in Ireland in January I layered up for the day we headed to the Cliffs of Moher because although it was sunny, the wind was crazy and extra chilly. I was glad I wore tights under my jeans and a cuddl duds shirt under my sweater!

Packing pajamas that are either too warm or not warm enough.

I am a self-proclaimed freeze baby and when I’m cold I cannot sleep. To make sure I’m at a comfortable temp when I go to bed, I always pack my cuddl duds if I’m traveling in the winter, and even pack warmer pajamas in the summer in case of over-air conditioned rooms. But my best secret might just be my sleeping cocoon, as I love to call it. It’s technically a silk “mummy liner” and I bought it to protect against bed bugs in hostels, but I end up sleeping in it when I’m in hotels and sometimes at home for extra warmth. They are spendy but I definitely recommend if you’re going to be in hostels (and it packs up tiny!). 

Not being prepared.

For things like your period arriving early. <Insert cringing face here.> But in general, making sure you have packed any medication you will need and toiletry items that are always at your disposal at home is important. 

Bringing too many toiletries.

On the flipside, it’s stressful to travel with a million travel-sized toiletries. I have actively tried to simplify my daily routines in terms of skin care and medications just so that it’s easier to travel (and to live!). Nail down your routine at home so that every time you have to pack, arranging your toiletries won’t bring out your inner-OCD demons. 

Check out my Instagram highlight labeled ‘luggage’ for more packing advice. Any packing fails you try to avoid? Throw them in the comments below!