For an overpacker is doesn't matter how big or small the trip, it's always a long process. Whether it is a weekend with the girls or a week-long vacation, you don't want to be anywhere near us. So here are five facts I know to be true as an overpacker.
1. We know it.
We are aware that we're overpackers. There may be times when we deny it, but deep down we know that we have a compulsive instinct to pack every pair of socks we own. You never know what could happen when you will need more socks! We are fully aware of our problem, and sometimes are even proud of it. I'm not scared to admit it, 'cause it's kind of hard to hide your four suitcases compared to everyone else with one and a carry-on.
2. We don't need any help.
When it comes to packing, no we do not need your help. It's not that we don't appreciate it, we just don't really like it when you tell us 10 times that we really don't need that. We'd really just rather you find somewhere to go for the next (at minimum) three hours. We could benefit from being alone with just ourselves and the five suitcases. Except maybe to get the zipper to close.
3. We can't stop.
I've tried it. Several times, actually. Gone three days and two nights? I really only need three outfits and two pairs of pajamas. "But what if I change my mind?" "What if I feel fat in this shirt?" "What if it rains?" So three outfits in total quickly turns to three outfits a day and then suddenly you need another suitcase because you need a pair of shoes for each of them as well. See how well that went? Yeah, we can't stop.
4. We're really good at not forgetting anything.
This is the fact that is most beneficial. Because we have the need to pack everything, we don't forget anything. Oftentimes we're the people you come to when you've forgotten your toothpaste, or maybe need to borrow a pair of socks (because who knows, right?!). Or whenever something unexpected happens and you need a very packed first aid kit, we always have one in tow.
5. We really hate unpacking.
Sure, we will pack! Pack three days early even, most likely. But it takes us forever to unpack. Because this is the only time we regret being overpackers. Nothing ever fits exactly back in the bags like when you first put them there; this is a mystery I still haven't figured out yet. It's just such a hassle after being away for a while to have to unpack the tons of clothes and put away all the extra stuff we didn't use, but we were so happy to have it just in case the world actually did fall apart while we were gone.
