A professional packer shares the biggest packing mistakes that you should avoid

Years ago, my greatest travel stress was packing. I’m the type of person who always wants to have the right outfit for every moment, and I love having options—both of which don’t exactly translate to packing lightly and efficiently. It was a common occurrence that I hated the outfits or bags I packed on trips. 

When I started traveling more and became older, I decided it was time to work on my packing skills. The days of checking my bag because I couldn’t choose which pants and tops to bring were over. I would never again start packing my suitcase before I had a general idea of what I needed or wanted to bring. So I began to experiment with various packing techniques—folding versus rolling your clothes. I spent hours on the internet looking for outfit inspiration before my travels. I began to make my own. packing listsAfter a detailed list of what I would like to take on a trip, I narrowed it down. 

Since then, I’ve learned that packing well is not an easy task. There are some best practices to follow and a few mistakes to avoid. But packing is not a mindless, quick task. For those of us who are genuinely concerned about our travel outfits, packing requires some planning and thought. You need to think strategically when matching your destination, weather and itinerary with the contents in your suitcase, duffel or backpack. 

This is the reason why I began a packing newsletterSharing the packing lists that I have created and used personally. Trust me, a well-planned packing strategy will result in lighter luggage, less stress and fewer “I’ve got nothing to wear” moments during travel.

While packing lists are my top recommendation if you want to become a better packer, I’d also suggest avoiding some of the biggest (and most common) packing mistakes below—all of which I’ve either experienced through trial and error or heard about from fellow travelers.

Making a capsule wardrobe is a mistake

As I started to build a wardrobe of high-quality basic pieces, also known as ana capsule wardrobe. I bought jeans that were casual but could easily be dressed up with a slingback shoe, a dressier shirt, and jewelry. I chose neutrals, timeless styles and pieces I wouldn’t donate in a few years. I focused on quality and avoided packing anything that didn’t fit my style and was uncomfortable. With a wardrobe of all-season, versatile pieces, I have less trouble making decisions when packing. Since I’m confident that my clothes will complement and coordinate, I don’t need to bring extra dresses or tops. 

The Packing Cubes Are Not Used

Packing cubes They were the first tool I used to improve my packing skills. Even if I am packing for just a weekend, I will use the cubes as a way to organize my clothes according to outfit or type. This method not only allows me to visualize my packing but also makes me make tough decisions. It’s best to leave home that extra sweater or pair of pants if it doesn’t fit. 

Many travelers prefer to fly. compression packing cubes—the ones that use a zipper system to cut down on bulk—I also like to use regular packing cubes for organizational purposes. I will also bring an additional one to hold dirty clothes during my trip. This way, I can transfer them easily from my suitcase into my laundry basket once I unpack. 

Traveling With an Unsatisfactory Carry-On Suitcase

I may try to only carry on, but I don’t want to waste any space. I want to make the most of my bag’s size. This is why I have made it my goal to find the biggest, durable carry-on suitcase On the market. I have tested carry-ons of a variety of luggage brands including luxury models and can confirm that they are the best. Away Bigger Carry-on It’s my favorite. The brand claims that the suitcase can hold four to seven days worth of clothing. I confirm this measurement. When I travel with a carry-on bag, I struggle to get everything in.

Making the mistake of forgetting about the power of a personal item bag

Carry-on luggage doesn’t mean that you have to bring one bag with everything. (Although the exact rules can vary by airline or seat class). The personal item bag is a great way to store bulkier items that would otherwise take up a lot of space in your luggage. My personal item bag is perfect for carrying my toiletries and an extra pair shoes. It also holds my laptop as well as any other small items like lip balms, chargers and even a purse. 

As with suitcases, I have tested many different styles and found what I consider the best. best personal item bag. Recently, I have been converted to this Calpak backpackIt can fit just as much as a carry-on bag (and still fits under the seat in front).  

The Mistake of Not Having a Toiletries Strategy

Prior to earning my “professional packing” title, I often checked a bag to avoid having to deal with toiletries. It was intimidating to think about transferring shampoo, conditioners, facewash, and other serums, moisturizers, into travel-sized containers. So I chose not to find a way. When I actually took the time and thought about a plan, it became clear that this did not have to be the most difficult part of packing. 

I have a small stash of toiletries like toothpaste and contact solution on hand and use them whenever I travel. Cadence Capsules Carry liquids that need smaller containers. I have even a few organizer drawers It’s the perfect size to fit any sample products I receive from Sephora or that I can pick up in hotels. Whenever it’s time to pack my toiletry bag, I can just grab and go—no checked bag required.