Packing for a trip should be exciting, not overwhelming! Yet, so many women find themselves frustrated with overstuffed suitcases, forgotten essentials, or outfits that just don’t work. Trust me, I’ve been there too!
As a full-time traveler, I’ve learned the hard way what works—and what absolutely doesn’t—when it comes to packing smart. And guess what? Most of the common packing mistakes I’ve made are completely avoidable! That’s why I wanted to share this post with you today.
Think of this as your go-to packing checklist, filled with tips to help you travel lighter, stress-free, and feeling like your most confident self. Whether you’re a chronic over-packer or just looking to fine-tune your travel wardrobe, these simple tweaks will make a world of difference. Let’s dive in!
Ready to learn about the 7 packing mistakes you should avoid?
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The 7 Most Common Packing Mistakes:
Packing is an art, and like any art, it takes practice to get it just right. The good news? You don’t have to learn the hard way! By simply knowing what common packing mistakes to avoid, you will already be miles ahead of most travelers. So it’s a good thing you’re here!
These aren’t just little missteps, they’re the packing pitfalls that can lead to stress, frustration, and unnecessary baggage (literally!).
These are the 7 most common packing mistakes I see women make all the time, and that I’ve made myself when we first left to travel the world full time:
1️⃣ Not Checking The Weather 2-3 Days Before Your Trip:
As a full-time traveler, I’ve learned that checking the weather right before a trip is one of the easiest ways to avoid packing regrets.
Yes, I know you’ll already have most of your suitcase packed and that this sounds as an inconvenience. But a last-minute weather check lets you make smart and quick adjustments. Maybe you’ll need an extra layer for those unexpectedly chilly nights or you can swap out heavy boots for sandals if a heatwave is rolling in.
It’s such a simple habit, yet it makes a world of difference!
Look at how I dressed in Amsterdam in the middle of July ⬇️
Doesn’t exactly scream summer, right?
✅ Don’t just look at the general forecast. Check for things like humidity, wind speed, and nighttime temperatures. A dry 75°F feels totally different from a humid 75°F! If the weather looks unpredictable, a lightweight layering piece is your best friend. (think of a denim jacket or pashmina for summer OR a utility jacket for spring and fall)
✅ If you’re headed somewhere tropical, see if there’s a rainy season. A light rain jacket can be a lifesaver!
2️⃣ Not Thinking About How Your Days Will Look:
Packing without thinking about your daily plans is like packing blind. Sure, you know where you’re going, but do you really know what your days will look like?
I’ve learned that some days we’re out exploring from sunrise to sunset, while other times we work from our Airbnb in comfy clothes for hours before heading out for a casual dinner. That’s a huge difference in outfit planning! So think about how this will look like for you.
It’s not about planning every minute, but about having a rough idea. Are you sightseeing all day? Grabbing drinks at a fancy rooftop bar? Hiking to an epic viewpoint?
When you don’t consider these things, you end up packing things you never wear or, worse, realizing you don’t have what you need.
✅ Before you start packing, think about the general vibe of your trip. A few minutes of planning can save you from packing the wrong clothes. And if you’re unsure, pack at least one comfy outfit and the right accessories to create one dressier look with pieces you already have. You’ll thank yourself later!
✅ If you’re planning on walking a lot, don’t just pack stylish outfits. Make sure they’re functional, too. Comfortable shoes and breathable fabrics like linen will make all the difference!
3️⃣ Packing Uncomfortable Clothes or Shoes:
We’ve all been there, packing that gorgeous pair of heels or a trendy jumpsuit, only to realize mid-trip that they’re wildly uncomfortable.
Looking stylish is important, I get it. But feeling good in what you wear is even more crucial. There’s nothing worse than hobbling through cobblestone streets in shoes that pinch or spending all day tugging at an ill-fitting outfit.
The good news? This mistake is 100% avoidable! A little pre-trip test run can save you from packing regret. Walk around in your shoes several times before your trip, sit down in your jeans, make sure that cute top doesn’t ride up in all the wrong ways. If it doesn’t feel good at home, it won’t feel good when you’re exploring a new city.
✅ Always break in new shoes before a trip. Wear them around the house with socks if needed to soften them up. If they’re still uncomfortable, leave them behind.
✅ Stick to breathable fabrics if you’re traveling in the summer. You want to be able to move freely, stay comfortable, and still look put together without worrying about being uncomfortable.
4️⃣ Not Taking Photos of Your Outfits Before the Trip:
Ever put on an outfit, feel amazing, and then see a picture of yourself later thinking, “Why does it look like this?” It happens to the best of us.
Sometimes an outfit looks great in the mirror but just doesn’t translate well in photos. Likewise, an outfit that looks great in a flat lay or on a hanger doesn’t always translate well when you actually wear it.
That’s why taking photos of yourself in your outfits before your trip is such a game-changer! You’ll know exactly how they look and feel, making it easier to choose what truly works.
✅ Try on each outfit and snap a quick mirror selfie. If something doesn’t look or feel right, adjust it before packing. Better now than regretting it later!
✅ Move around in your outfit! Sit, walk, and pose like you would on your trip. This helps you catch any discomfort or awkward fits before you’re stuck wearing it all day.
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Common Packing Mistake #5️⃣ : Overpacking!
Overpacking is easily one of the most common packing mistakes, and I totally get it. You want to be prepared for every possible scenario:
What if the weather changes?
What if there’s a fancy dinner?
What if you suddenly need five extra outfits? 👀
But here’s the thing: most of those ‘what if’ items never get worn, and all they do is take up valuable suitcase space.
Packing smart isn’t about stuffing in as many things as possible. It’s about packing what you’ll actually wear. Instead of throwing in 5 extra outfits, focus on versatile pieces that mix and match with ease.
And let’s also talk about shoes for a second: packing too many is a mistake I see all the time. You really only need three: one for walking (white leather sneakers), one for dressing up (flat leather sandals), and one for casual days (Birkenstocks).
✅ Instead of packing for every possible scenario, plan your outfits ahead of time and make sure each item works in multiple ways.
✅ Stick to travel-sized toiletries and travel friendly skincare. I only use 3 products: Plumping Serum – Plumping Cream – Antioxidant Balm. This beauty routine works because these products are EFFECTIVE so I don’t need to use a million things. Plus, I save tons of space inside my suitcase!
6️⃣ Not Researching Local Customs In Advance:
It’s easy to pack based on what feels normal to you, but what’s considered an appropriate attire can vary drastically from place to place. The last thing you want is to feel out of place or, worse, disrespectful just because you didn’t research ahead of time.
Some destinations are more conservative, and wearing super short shorts or revealing tops could not only draw unwanted attention but also make you feel uncomfortable.
✅ Look up local customs before you pack. Many travel blogs and tourism websites provide insights into cultural expectations for dressing (for both men and women).
✅ When in doubt, pack a lightweight scarf or shawl. It takes up almost no space and can be a lifesaver for covering up in places that require modesty, like temples, churches, or traditional neighborhoods. It’s also very like you will wear your pashmina during all your travel days.
7️⃣ Not Packing Enough Accessories:
When it comes to avoiding common packing mistakes, accessories are often overlooked. Yet, they’re one of the easiest ways to make the most out of your travel wardrobe without adding unnecessary bulk.
Many women focus only on clothing, forgetting that the right accessories can instantly transform an outfit from basic to stylish! My favorites are: headbands, statement earrings and a straw hat.
✅ Pack a few statement pieces that reflect your style. A pair of bold earrings, a sleek belt, or even a lightweight scarf can take your outfits from casual to chic with zero effort.
✅ Don’t underestimate the power of a bold lipstick or a manicure! It’s the easiest way to add a pop of color and elevate your look without taking up any extra space in your bag.
What To Read Next?
- How to simplify your toiletry bag?
- Everything you need to know about personal items!
- The best 5 shoes for travel.
Bonus Tips: Travel Essentials That Don’t Go in Your Suitcase!
Packing isn’t just about what goes into your suitcase. It’s also about preparing for the little things that make a trip smoother and stress-free. These essentials may not take up space in your carry-on, but they’re just as important for a hassle-free experience:
✅ International Driver’s License: If you’re renting a car abroad, some countries require an international driver’s permit. It’s easy to get one at a AAA office before your trip.
✅ E-Sim: No one wants to land in a new country without service! Skip the hassle of finding a SIM card and get an eSIM before your trip. You simply active it when you land with the click of a button. We love using HolaFly for instant connectivity.
✅ Travel Adapter: Electrical outlets vary worldwide (there are 15 different ones worldwide), and the last thing you want is a dead phone with no way to charge it. A universal travel adapter works everywhere and saves you the headache of multiple converters.
✅ Travel Insurance: Things happen… flights get canceled, luggage gets lost, and sometimes you need medical assistance (I’ve seen it happen way too often!). Travel insurance is a small investment that can save you from major financial headaches, and it gives you peace of mind.
✅ VPN for Public WiFi: Free airport or café WiFi is convenient, but it’s also risky. A VPN (I’ve used Surfshark for years!) keeps your personal information safe while you browse on public networks.
These simple preparations will help you stay connected, protected, and stress-free on your trip. And the best part? No extra packing required!
Wrapping up – What did we learn today? 🤓
Packing confidence is the ultimate travel ‘hack’.
And packing doesn’t have to be a source of stress. By avoiding these seven common packing mistakes, you can simplify the process and feel more confident about your travel wardrobe.
Each of these small changes contributes to packing smarter and, most importantly, to stopping overpacking:
1️⃣ Checking the weather before your trip → Prevents unnecessary layers or clothing that won’t be useful.
2️⃣ Thinking about how your days will look → Helps avoid packing clothes you won’t end up wearing.
3️⃣ Trying on your outfits before packing → Ensures every piece is comfortable and practical.
4️⃣ Taking photos of your outfits on you → Prevents bringing clothes that don’t look or feel good in real life.
5️⃣ Limiting your shoe and toiletry options → Saves space and weight in your suitcase.
6️⃣ Being mindful of local customs → Avoids bringing clothing that won’t be appropriate or wearable.
7️⃣ Packing a few key accessories → Allows you to create multiple looks without overpacking.
You’ve got this, ok? 💪🏼
Next time you’re staring at an empty suitcase, take a deep breath and revisit these tips.
Here’s to traveling light, stylishly, and stress-free! 🧘♀️
XO,
Aimara
PS: I have a really cool newsletter that delivers you useful seasonal packing tips straight to your inbox every single Friday. Join the fun here! It’s a great space for us ladies to chat about all these things!
PPS: want immediate access to all my best packing resources? Get 17 packing lists + guides for $17!
About The Author:
Hi, my name is Aimara and I am the voice behind Ways of Style. I was born and raised in Venezuela until the age of 27 when I moved to Chicago, and 2 years later I met my best friend and husband. We now travel full time and live out of a carry-on bag, so believe me, I know a thing or two about how to maximize every single piece I own.
I love creating new looks, and looking cute while I’m traveling. And in this blog, I try to share all my looks, even if I don’t have the best photos ;) My goal is to help you maximize every piece you have in your closet and to encourage you to live with less things.
Other Articles To Check Out Next:
- How to actually pack less things?
- What is travel friendly skincare?
- The 12 pieces you need to create a summer travel capsule wardrobe!
- What to pack for fall in Italy?
- Master packing light for trips with different climates!
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