Kim vs. Kim: The Overpacker’s Debate

When you’re a travel advisor, everyone assumes your suitcase is perfectly curated, color-coordinated, and zipped up in 20 minutes flat.
Spoiler alert: nope. This is my packing smackdown—half smart packing tips, half overpacking confessions, and all travel advisor packing advice real talk.

Every trip starts with the same ritual—Responsible Kim vs. Overpacker Kim duking it out on my bedroom floor.

Round 1: The Essentials - Smart Packing Tips

Responsible Kim: “You only need the basics. Passport, comfy shoes, a light jacket. Keep it simple.”
Overpacker Kim: “Sure, but what if it rains, snows, AND we get invited to a surprise dinner at a five-star restaurant? Better throw in two extra outfits… just in case.”

Winner: Responsible Kim — because nothing annoys me more than staring at unused stuff in my suitcase all vacation.

Round 2: Hair Care - What Not to Pack on Vacation

Responsible Kim: “You got a perm so you wouldn’t have to fuss with your hair. Leave the curling iron at home.”
Overpacker Kim: “But what if I want to straighten my hair??”

Winner: Responsible Kim — because deep down, we all know I am not going to work that hard on my hair.

Round 3: Creature Comforts - Packing for Sleep & Stress Relief

Responsible Kim: “Travel light, blend in, you’ll be fine.”
Overpacker Kim: “Mentholatum goes in the bag. Non-negotiable. It smells like Grandma’s house and helps me sleep anywhere in the world.”

Winner: Overpacker Kim — this one always makes the cut, because nothing beats a familiar scent when I’m trying to get some rest in a new place.

Round 4: The Snacks & Drinks - Packing Food & Drinks for Travel

Responsible Kim: “You don’t need to pack your own drinks.”
Overpacker Kim: “Excuse me? Iced decaf green tea bag stash is survival gear. What if I’m stranded in a land with only coffee?!”

Winner: Overpacker Kim — because hydration is serious business and no hotel room should be without my tea stash.

Round 5: Tech & Gadgets - Best Travel Electronics to Pack

Responsible Kim: “Laptop, phone, charger, done.”
Overpacker Kim: “iPad, power bank, backup cables, tripod, and… wait, do we need a ring light? Yes, we do. For reasons.”

Winner: Overpacker Kim — because apparently, I run a mobile electronics store on vacation.

Final Verdict:

I may help clients pack smarter and stress less, but in my own suitcase? Let’s just say it’s a team effort. Responsible Kim puts up a good fight, but Overpacker Kim almost always sneaks in “just one more thing.”

And honestly? That’s part of the fun. Because every trip is a mix of planning, personality quirks, and those little comforts that make the journey yours.

Want the practical side too? Check out my Ultimate Travel Packing List for a no-nonsense guide to what actually makes the cut.