Hey there travel enthusiasts and welcome to my post where we will check out my top 7 packing mistakes to avoid as you travel this year. As we know, traveling is one of life’s greatest pleasures, offering countless benefits for those who embark on journeys far and wide. It broadens the mind, expands cultural horizons and creates unforgettable memories that last a lifetime.
However, no matter how meticulously planned a trip is, even the slightest packing mistake can quickly derail the entire experience. From forgotten passports to overweight suitcases, the consequences of packing errors can be costly, time-consuming and can even put a severe dampener on your trip.
So to help you out, I have done some research – and thinking into my own mess-ups – and come up with a list of 7 things to avoid below.
Packing Mistakes to Avoid
As above, packing incorrectly can certainly make things a little tricky whilst you are away. Here are some things to avoid
1. Using the wrong travel bag
One of the most common packing mistakes is using the wrong travel bag for the trip. Some travelers make the mistake of bringing a bag that is too small, forcing them to leave essential items behind or cram everything in, leading to disorganization and frustration.
Other travelers bring a bag that is too large, which can lead to overpacking and unnecessary weight. The key is choosing a bag appropriate for the trip and the number of items you plan to bring. Furthermore, if you choose a bag that is not designed for your mode of transportation, it may be difficult to navigate through airports, train stations, or other travel hubs.
At the end of the day, consider the length of the trip, the mode of transportation, and the amount of walking or carrying you will be doing and choose your bag accordingly.
Check out these: Soft side suitcases for travel
2. Packing too much
Another packing mistake is bringing too much clothing. It’s easy to get carried away and pack multiple outfits for every day of the trip, but this can quickly lead to overpacking and difficulty navigating through your luggage. And of course there are those expensive airline fees for excessive weight as well.
To avoid this mistake, plan your outfits ahead of time and pack versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched. You can also pack and wear clothing that can be layered, allowing you to adjust to changes in weather or temperature. Bringing items that can serve multiple purposes is also smart way to pack efficiently. For example, packing a scarf that can double as a blanket or pillow or bringing a pair of shoes that can be used for both casual and formal occasions.
Not taking advantage of items with double duty is a packing mistake that can lead to overpacking and added weight. Another trick here is to use a hard side suitcase as well. The reason here is that these have not a lot of ‘give’ meaning if you try and bring too much, it will physically not fit in the suitcase.
3. Packing excessive toiletries
Many do not consider this as they pack however trying to bring too many toiletries is another common mistake that can take up valuable space in your luggage. Here are just a few of this issues that you may need to consider:
- Increased weight and bulk: Toiletries take up space and add weight to your luggage. Packing too many toiletries can make your luggage heavier and more difficult to carry.
- TSA regulations: The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has regulations on the amount and type of liquids that can be brought on a flight. Packing too many toiletries or large containers can result in confiscation or delays at airport security.
- Risk of spills: Packing too many toiletries can increase the risk of spills and leaks, which can ruin your clothing or other items in your luggage. This can be especially problematic if you’re traveling with electronics or other sensitive items.
- Cost: As with too much clothing above, many airlines charge extra for checked bags and packing too many toiletries can force you to check an extra bag, resulting in additional fees.
To get around this, make sure you are bringing only the essentials and consider purchasing travel-sized items or packing them in small containers. It’s also vital to check TSA guidelines for liquids, gels, and other restricted items to avoid any issues at security checkpoints.
Check out these: Toiletry bags for travel
4. Not bringing important documents
This is another one that you may not have thought of however forgetting essential documents like passports, visas, or travel insurance can be a costly mistake that can ruin your trip. And in most cases, it is your packing regime that can cause this problem.
The first step here is to make a list of all necessary documents and double-check that you have everything before leaving for your trip. In my experience, the most practical thing you can do then is to select a ‘spot’ in your luggage where you will keep your documents and always put them there – for me it is the top pocket of my backpack.
That way, you can always check that spot before you leave and know that you have everything you need. If this won’t work, then consider a fit for purpose travel wallet to store everything safely or securely inside instead. Keeping digital copies of important documents in case of loss or theft is also a good idea.
5. Overpacking the carry-on
This is another area that we often mis-pack for – usually based on or constant fear of getting bored on the plane. Problems that can arise from overpacking your carryon can include:
- Difficulty stowing the bag: If your carry-on is too large or heavy, it may be difficult to stow in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.
- Limited space: Overpacking your carry-on can take up valuable space in the overhead bin, making it difficult for other passengers to store their luggage. It can also limit your own space under the seat in front of you, making it uncomfortable for you during the flight.
- Increased weight: Overpacking your carry-on can also make it heavier, which can be uncomfortable to carry around the airport and can also exceed the airline’s weight limits leading to increased fees.
- Risk of damage: If you overpack your carry-on, it can increase the risk of damage to your belongings, as they may be squeezed and crushed by other items in the bag.
Overall, it’s important to pack only the essential items in your carry-on and to be mindful of the size and weight restrictions set by the airline. Keep in mind what you will really need and look to save space where you can. Such examples here include taking earbuds instead of headphones, or an e-reader instead of books.
Check out these: Hard side carry-on cases
6. Overlooking TSA guidelines
We have touched on this above but not considering TSA guidelines is another istake that many make when packing for a trips. This can include:
- Identification: You will need to present a valid government-issued photo ID or passport to board your flight.
- Liquids: Liquids in your carry-on bag must be in containers that are 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per item. All containers must be placed in a single, clear, quart-sized bag and presented for inspection at the security checkpoint.
- Electronics: Laptops, tablets, and other electronics larger than a cell phone must be removed from your carry-on bag and placed in a separate bin for X-ray screening.
- TSA Locks: Failure to use TSA approved locks can result in other locks being cut off in the instance that your bag needs to be inspected.
- Clothing: You will need to remove your shoes, belts, and jackets before going through the security checkpoint. This includes bulky clothing such as coats and sweaters.
- Prohibited items: There are several items that are prohibited from being carried on board an aircraft, such as firearms, explosives and sharp objects.
- Restricted items: Some items, such as medical equipment and certain types of food, may be allowed but are subject to additional screening or restrictions.
Overall, it’s important to review the TSA guidelines before traveling to ensure that you are in compliance and to help make the security screening process as smooth and efficient as possible.
Check out these: TSA-Approved Pistol Cases
7. Not leaving space for souvenirs
And finally, one of the biggest mistakes I know we have made is not leaving extra space in your luggage for souvenirs and other items purchased on your trip. This can force you to choose between leaving items behind or paying extra for additional luggage as you strt to add this to the stuff you brpought with you in the first place.
To avoid this mistake, pack light and leave space in your luggage for souvenirs. Alternatively, you can pack a foldable bag or small duffel that can be used to bring home any extra items you purchase during your trip.
Conclusion
There you have it, my 7 packing tips you should avoid to achieve a memorable and enjoyable trip. I would be pleased to know how this article helped you, and as usual, let me know of your experiences with them.
Also, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, concerns, or corrections or would like me to check anything else out for you.
Until next time.
Have fun
Paul
