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5 common mistakes people make when packing luggage

5 common mistakes people make when packing luggage Illustrative photo (Freepik)
Author: Maria Kholina

For a trip, you need to pack compactly, not forget anything important, and not overpay for extra luggage. It's worth taking it seriously to avoid some mistakes that will lead to a stressful trip, according to the Martha Stewart website.

Packing too late or too early

If you pack too early, then preparing for a trip becomes more stressful because you go about your daily life without the things you have already packed. But if you leave it to the last minute, you're likely to forget about the essentials in your rush.

Start filling your suitcase about a week in advance for a long trip and a few days in advance for a short one. Allow yourself enough time to do laundry, check the weather, plan activities, and buy all the things you need.

Choosing the wrong suitcase

Before you decide what to bring, you need to determine what size and type of luggage is best for your trip.

Choose the size of your luggage so that you have a little extra room for any souvenirs you might bring back home.

Not planning your outfits

Experienced travelers can travel for weeks with only carry-on luggage or a backpack because they take a well-planned list of things with them.

You need to think carefully about the places you are going to visit and the weather there.

Not checking luggage weight and size limits

It's important to familiarize yourself with the airline's rules and restrictions it has set on the size and weight of your luggage. It may seem boring and unnecessary, but it will definitely save you from unpleasant surprises and unplanned expenses at the airport.

Only after you are sure that your bags and suitcases meet the set parameters, you can start packing. And when you're done, don't forget to weigh what you're taking with you, as you may need to leave something at home or repack it.

Packing too many things

People often take too many things on vacation and use half of them. The rest just travels aimlessly around the world, taking up space and making it difficult to move around.

Think carefully about what you need to take with you. Choose clothes so that you can make as many combinations as possible and use them in different situations - for relaxing on the beach or for dinner in a restaurant.

Pay special attention to your shoes. Unless it's flip-flops or sandals, shoes will take up too much space. Choose 2 to 3 versatile pairs from your wardrobe, and wear the bulkiest of them on the road.