If you're anything like me, packing lightly has always been a concept that is nearly impossible to understand. How does one manage to fit everything for a week-long trip into a carry-on? I can barely get all my stuff for a weekend into a decent-sized duffel bag.
However, after years of sitting on top of my suitcase and praying for it to zip all the way shut, I finally cracked the code when I went home for Thanksgiving. If this is something you struggle with it's not too late to get it together for your next round of holiday travel.
This list will help you cheat around packing your suitcase without it overflowing.
1. Make a list
Making a list of all the items you think you need will help you deal with the stress of forgetting something important, but also make you rethink how much you’re taking with you once you realize how ridiculously long it is. Make your list and go through it a couple times and cross things off that you can live without. Your trip can’t be that long, you will thank me later.
2. Pack toiletries first
(Or at least think about exactly what you need ahead of time). I used to always pack my toiletries last, in fear that I would have to dig an item out of my suitcase at the last minute. But by the time I would be ready to slide my toiletry bag into my suitcase, it would be way too full and I would have to fight my way through clothes and shoes to find a spot.
Setting everything you need to the side and then sliding your toiletry bag in first allows you to build around it so you won't have to debate leaving your most important items behind.
3. Use your backpack
If you plan on carrying an extra carry-on, like a backpack or tote bag, use it to maximize how much room you're left with in your suitcase. By stashing items like accessories, your makeup bag, charging cables, heat tools for hair or an extra pair of shoes in your backpack, you can really save a lot of space within your main suitcase.
4. Wear your bulky items
This is the best cheat code. Layering up for your plane or car-ride home is the best way to save space in your suitcase. Try to build an outfit around what would take up the most space I normally opt for a long-sleeve t-shirt underneath a sweater or hoodie and wear my coat on top. Pair it with leggings or jeans and a pair of Timberland boots, that normally take up way too much room if I try to fit them in my bag.
5. Think capsule wardrobe
Creating a capsule wardrobe for your suitcase will save you crazy amounts of space and time. Plus, if you're going home for the holidays, you can always wash anything you want to wear again at your parent's house. Remembering to use neutral colors and pack pieces not outfits, that way you can mix and match without an issue.
Stick to basic tank tops and t-shirts to use for layering, a casual and versatile pair of sneakers, a pair of black pants, an everyday pair of jeans, a button-down shirt/light jacket (whether flannel, denim or camo it can be worn as a layer for almost any outfit), that sweater that matches everything, a pair of nice flats or heels, and one dress/dressy outfit if needed. You can also add in any cold weather gear like a hat or scarf if you feel the need.
6. Minimize what makes sense
I have a bad habit of overthinking smaller items. There’s no way I would need three bottles of nail polish or eight necklaces for a week-long trip, but I tend to pack that many anyways.
Try to be as practical as possible when it comes to extra items since they can add up quickly. Will you really have time to read three novels or wear four pairs of gloves? Probably not. Are extra pairs of socks and underwear important? Yes!
Before you zip your suitcase, remove half of the accessories/miscellaneous items you packed. Not only will you save space, but also time when you’re looking for something to wear later.
Hopefully, this helps you cope with your inner-over packer. Not having to ask your roommate to help you zip your suitcase is very rewarding. Safe Travels.
