Packing Mistakes You’re Probably Doing That Ruin Vacations (and How to Avoid Them)

Packing for a vacation always seems simple at first. You grab your suitcase, toss in what you think you’ll need, and call it a day. But then, mid-trip, you realize you’ve packed six pairs of shoes but no toothbrush, or your suitcase weighs more than a small child and costs you a fortune in baggage fees. Sound familiar? Packing is an art form, and for many, it’s a masterpiece they’re still learning to create. Let’s break down the packing mistakes that can sabotage your trip and how a little forethought can save your sanity—and your wallet.

Overpacking: The Never-Worn Wardrobe Problem

There’s a moment during packing when you convince yourself you need options—lots of options. What if it rains? What if there’s a fancy dinner? What if you suddenly decide to go hiking? And before you know it, you’re shoving five “just in case” outfits into your bag, only to wear two of them during your trip. Overpacking is the most common packing mistake, and it’s one that creates unnecessary stress, especially when it comes to lugging that oversized suitcase up a flight of stairs or onto a crowded train.

The fix? Start by planning your outfits based on realistic activities. If you’re travelling for a week, think about how many times you’ll actually change clothes and focus on versatile pieces you can mix and match. A pair of jeans that works for both sightseeing and a casual dinner can save you from packing extra pants. And remember: if you forget something, most destinations have shops.

Forgetting the Essentials

Picture this: you arrive at your destination, ready to recharge and relax, only to discover you’ve forgotten your phone charger, prescription medication, or worse—your passport. It’s the kind of oversight that can throw your entire trip off course, yet it happens more often than you’d think.

The secret to avoiding this disaster is a checklist. Yes, it’s old-school, but it works. Write down everything you need for your trip—starting with the essentials like travel documents, toiletries, and electronics—and tick them off as you pack. And don’t wait until the night before to do this. Packing in advance gives you time to double-check and avoid those last-minute rushes where mistakes happen.

Ignoring the Weather Forecast

It’s easy to assume that your beach destination will be sunny or your mountain retreat will be cold. But the weather has a funny way of surprising you, and packing without checking the forecast is an open invitation for discomfort. Arriving at a rainy destination without a waterproof jacket or at a sunny locale with no sunscreen can quickly turn your trip into a shopping spree for things you already own.

Before you pack, spend five minutes looking up the forecast for your destination. And even if it promises perfect weather, it doesn’t hurt to prepare for the unexpected. A lightweight rain jacket or compact umbrella takes up little space but can be a lifesaver when the skies open up. Similarly, layering is your best friend for unpredictable climates. A sweater over a T-shirt works on chilly mornings and can be shed when the sun comes out.

Packing Fragile Items Without Protection

Souvenirs or that delicate piece of jewellery you can’t leave behind—they’re all great until you open your suitcase to find them shattered or bent out of shape. Packing fragile items without proper protection is a gamble, and the odds are rarely in your favour when you’re dealing with overzealous baggage handlers.

If you must bring fragile items, wrap them in soft clothing or bubble wrap and place them in the centre of your suitcase, surrounded by cushioned layers. Hard-shell luggage is another excellent investment for anyone who frequently travels with breakable belongings. And if you’re bringing something truly irreplaceable, consider carrying it in your hand luggage to keep it under your watchful eye.

The Chaos of an Unorganised Suitcase

You know that moment when you’re frantically digging through your suitcase, trying to find one specific item, and it feels like the bag has swallowed it whole? That’s the hallmark of poor packing organisation, and it can add unnecessary stress to your travels. A messy suitcase means more time spent searching and less time enjoying your trip.

Packing cubes is a simple yet genius solution to this problem. They divide your suitcase into neat compartments, so you always know where to find your socks, shirts, or swimwear. Even without packing cubes, folding your clothes neatly and grouping similar items together can make a world of difference. And don’t forget to use every bit of space—shoes, for example, are great hiding spots for socks or chargers(wink).

Breaking TSA Rules Without Knowing It

Airport security lines are nerve-wracking enough without realizing halfway through that you’ve accidentally packed a full-size bottle of shampoo or forgotten to separate your liquids. TSA rules are strict, and breaking them—intentionally or not—can hold up your trip and leave you scrambling to repack on the spot.

Avoid this by familiarising yourself with the rules before you travel. Liquids should be in containers of 3.4 ounces or less, and stored in a clear, resealable bag. And it’s not just liquids—be aware of restrictions on sharp objects, batteries, and other items. Packing with security in mind doesn’t just save you from awkward encounters; it also speeds up the screening process, leaving you more time to grab a coffee before your flight.

Packing for Fashion Over Function

We’ve all been guilty of packing that pair of stunning but impractical shoes or an outfit that looks great but isn’t comfortable for a day of exploring. While it’s tempting to prioritize style, practicality should always take the lead when it comes to travel.

Think about your itinerary and choose clothing and footwear that suits the activities you’ll be doing. Comfortable walking shoes are non-negotiable for city tours or nature hikes, and breathable fabrics are a must for warm destinations. That doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style entirely—just focus on items that look good and feel good, too. Your feet will thank you after a long day of sightseeing.

Not Leaving Room for Souvenirs

It’s easy to fill your suitcase to the brim when packing for a trip, but where does that leave you when you find the perfect keepsake to bring home? Overpacking leaves no room for souvenirs, and unless you plan to buy an extra bag, you might end up leaving behind something you love.

When packing, leave a little extra space for items you’ll pick up along the way. Alternatively, bring a foldable tote bag that can serve as an additional carry-on for your return trip. It’s a simple solution that ensures you don’t miss out on bringing home memories from your travels.