Packing Light Tips (With Humor) – Travel Hacks to Stop Overpacking

Some people can fit two weeks into a carry-on. Me? I pack like I am fleeing the country... with my entire shoe collection.

The truth is, packing light is a myth for most of us, and honestly, half the fun of travel is realizing you brought six outfits for three days and still wore the same hoodie twice. Below are funny packing light tips and real travel hacks to stop overpacking so your suitcase finally zips without you sitting on it.

The Myth of Packing Light

Packing light is like spotting a unicorn at baggage claim: magical in theory, rare in the wild. Most of us overpack because of FOMO: What if I need a cocktail dress for cruise karaoke? or what if Paris suddenly calls for hiking boots? (Spoiler: it will not.)

Quick fix: build outfits you can mix and match. Think two outfits, endless combos. One pair of jeans, a neutral layer, and two tops go a long way. For cruise-specific ideas, peek at my Alaska post: Ultimate Alaska Cruise Port Checklists.

The Emotional Baggage We All Bring

We do not just pack clothes; we pack feelings. The just-in-case jacket that never leaves the suitcase. The fifth pair of shoes that might match that one outfit. Three backup chargers... and the backup for your backup. Turns out the heaviest thing in my bag is not my boots; it is my urge to be ready for every apocalypse.

Practical Hacks to Almost Pack Light

• Roll, do not fold — clothes (and questionable life decisions) take up less space this way.
• Pack by outfit, not by vibe — vibe packing equals six dresses and no pajamas.
• Packing cubes — adult Tetris, oddly therapeutic.
• The drugstore rule — if you can buy it at a Walgreens, do not pack it.

Planning ahead for a big year? Check my living list of major events: 2026 Global Events Calendar.

Travel Advisor Reality Check

Even as a travel advisor, I overpack. The difference? I have seen enough lost-luggage sagas to know the real trick: take a photo of your suitcase and your claim tag. If your bag goes on its own vacation, you will have proof that speeds things up. Sadly, emotional baggage does not qualify for compensation.

Final Thoughts

So yes, I pack emotional baggage and half my closet... but at least I have snacks. What is the most ridiculous thing you have packed just in case? Tell me — I promise I have brought something weirder.

Looking for a full packing guide? Don’t miss my Ultimate Travel Packing List to make sure you’re fully prepared.