Living out of your Suitcase

Packing is never a fun task. Whether you’re headed to a weekend getaway or a two-week excursion, deciding what to take is complicated. With our increasing reliance on technology, we’ve got tons of devices and chargers in addition to our clothing. If you’re unsure where to start but want to keep things light, observe the following pointers.

Check the Weather

Clothes will undoubtedly take up the most space in your baggage. If you take a peak at the expected weather ahead of time, you can avoid taking items that you won’t need. You’ll be upset if that bulky sweater takes up a quarter of your suitcase, and it’s far too hot to wear it.

Use the Appropriate Bag

You won’t need an extra-large suitcase if you’re headed to a beach resort for the weekend. Choose a bag that allows the right amount of clothing and accessories for the duration of the trip. If your bag is too big for a short trip, you’ll feel pressured to take more than you need.

Make a List

If you want to keep your suitcase light, figure out what you need before you place the first item inside. Use a checklist app to compile everything you plan to take. This way, you won’t forget anything, and you won’t toss in any extras.

Only Take One Extra

Underwear and socks are the only area where you can pack one more than what you need. For example, if you’re leaving for three days, take four pairs of drawers with you. You never know when you’ll need another pair. For everything else, you’ll need to pare down.

Take Pieces You Can Wear Twice

If you’re taking an extended two-week trip, you won’t have enough space to take 14 pairs of pants with you. Pack seven pairs and plan to do some laundry while you’re away. Also, ensure you have some rugged jeans in the mix. Jeans can be worn multiple times between washes. It’s through repeated wears that they fit your body best.

Pack Interchangeable Outfits

In a perfect world, you’d have a different look for every single day. But space is limited, and that’s not realistic. Instead, pack several lightweight shirts and polos that can be worn with every pair of pants in your suitcase. This way, you won’t feel compelled to stick with an outfit order. And when your options start to disappear, you can keep your look fresh.

Focus on Layers, Not Size

Large items take up valuable space in your luggage. If you’re traveling somewhere with cooler temps, pack clothes that you can layer for added warmth. You’ll get more mileage out of them, and you’ll still have plenty of space. When faced with the dilemma of packing light, it can be scary to eliminate things. What if you need it later? What if you don’t have enough options? Somehow, even when we don’t feel like we packed enough, we end up with too much. Follow these rules and go as light as you can.

Worst case scenario-you can always go shopping if you really need something extra.