Essential Items You Can Leave Behind for a Quick Journey (Short List)
Packing light for a short trip isn't just beneficial, it's crucial if you want to avoid schlepping heavy bags or paying expensive luggage fees. Here's what you should avoid bringing on a swift getaway.
Adeela Hussain Johnson, the dynamic president of BÈIS, warns against overpacking anything. "Keep it minimal," she advises. Whether you're sporting a carry-on or a weekender, remember the limited space and pack smartly. For instance, if business is on the agenda, it's wise to pack an extra dress shirt. But you probably don't need more than one swimsuit if you just plan on lounging poolside.
Valerie Batrice, vice president of consumer marketing at Travelpro, agrees. "Stick to essentials only," she says. So, leaving those studio-sized toiletries at home is a must. Instead, use a compact Dopp Kit for beauty and skincare products, and pick only what you can fit inside.
When it comes to fashion, choose versatile handbags and shoes that can be worn multiple times. Save space by opting for more practical items that can be used for various occasions. Neutral colors work well because they can be paired with bright shirts and tops to add a pop of color.
Batrice also suggests leaving full-size toiletries at home. Purchase travel-sized hygiene items once you've reached your destination to support local artisans and bring back unique souvenirs. "During my trip to Portugal, I discovered amazing soaps and facial creams made from French honey-talk about a win-win!" she says.
When packing clothes, stick to a capsule wardrobe of one pair of pants, one skirt, and one dress to create numerous outfits without overfilling your suitcase. This leaves room for shopping abroad or for purchasing souvenirs. "This method gives you extra space in your luggage for shopping during an international trip," Batrice explains.
- Real Simple advises limiting the number of items you pack for a short trip to avoid lugging heavy bags or incurring expensive fees.
- Adeela Hussain Johnson, the president of BÈIS, advises minimal packing for both carry-ons and weekender bags due to their limited space.
- Valerie Batrice, vice president of consumer marketing at Travelpro, suggests bringing only essentials and leaving studio-sized toiletries at home, opting instead for a compact Dopp Kit.
- To save space while packing fashion items, Batrice suggests choosing versatile handbags and shoes in neutral colors that can be worn multiple times, and sticking to a capsule wardrobe that includes only one pair of pants, one skirt, and one dress, allowing for numerous outfits and extra room for shopping abroad.
