From overpacking to forgetting certain crucial items like your charger, we all make mistakes when packing. The good news is, we learn from experience and get better at packing with each trip. 

But learning from experience is not always a pleasant thing. So if you can avoid the following common packing mistakes when traveling, please do. 

1. Overpacking — Probably the Most Common Mistake 

Overpacking is probably the most common mistake most people make when traveling. Traveling is already tiresome enough. Adding a large heavy suitcase or a bulky backpack to the mix makes it even more tedious. 

The most common reasons for overpacking are: 

• Not planning your packing. If you are just throwing stuff in the suitcase, you will almost certainly overpack, while also forgetting some important items. 
• Packing items just in case. You end up with so many things you don't use. Instead, ask yourself what’s the worst that could happen if you didn’t pack something. That will help you figure out what you really should pack (e.g. I no longer pack my Nintendo Switch which I would pack just in case I got bored, but never used. But I would never leave behind my imodium tablets because the ‘worst that could happen’ would be disastrous). 
• Not packing smart, especially when it comes to clothes. Instead of a separate outfit for each day, pack multipurpose clothes that you can mix and match. Our no-stink Hercleon clothing can also help you cut down on your luggage since you can wear the shirts and underwear multiple times without washing.  

2. Not Having a Packing Checklist - Don’t Trust Your Brain 

Even if you are going on an overnight trip, write down a packing checklist. Not having a packing list is what causes you to overpack or forget important stuff like headphones or that load of underwear that’s in the dryer. 

Forget a mental checklist - your brain will betray you. Instead, write down a checklist and go through it several times to figure out what you can cut out.  

Once you are done packing, do a final check with your checklist to make sure you’ve packed everything. 

3. Packing Everything You Need In-flight In Your Carry-on 

Anything you need during your flight goes with you inside the plane, and not in the checked luggage. The mistake people make is putting it all in the carry-on. Sure, you’ll have your carry-on with you, but it will be difficult to access during the flight. 

Instead, pack the items you need during the flight like moisturizer, water bottle, phone charger and snacks in a smaller tote or bag. Just make sure it is small enough to count as a personal item. You can pack your personal item bag at home or just before you check-in. 

4. Forgetting to Pack a Daypack

Many people pack a large backpack as their carry-on. But then they forget to pack a smaller backpack or tote bag for everyday use on their trip. Walking around the city with a large and heavy backpack is a pain. 

So don't forget to pack a small and lightweight daypack that you will use during your trip. 

5. Packing Clothes/Shoes You’ve Never Worn Before 

The last thing you want to find out while on your trip is that a new pair of jeans doesn't fit you or your new shoes cause blisters. 

You should be sure that everything you pack fits well and is comfortable. Leave out any new clothes that you haven’t tried on yet or any item that’s been sitting in your closet unused for months or years. It probably doesn't fit you anymore. 

6. Not Packing For The Destination Weather 

Before you pack clothes for the trip, don't forget to check the weather for where you are going. You should know what season they are in currently (warm, cold, rainy, dry etc.) and the weather forecast for the days you’ll be there. You can then pack clothes for that weather. 

For instance, if it is the rainy season, a lightweight raincoat comes in handy. 

Don’t forget to research the general climate of a place. Some places are humid most of the year, meaning you need to pack lightweight and highly absorbent clothes that don't show sweat.   

7. Packing Too Many Shoes

One pair of comfortable shoes and one pair of sandals. That’s all you need for most trips. Many people pack extra pairs just in case they need to go to a fancy dinner, go hiking, go for a run and so on. You end up with unused shoes that take up a lot of space. 

Instead pack one pair of comfy and versatile shoes that will be ideal for most of the activities you’ve planned for. That’s why trainers or sneakers are great for traveling. 

8. Not Organizing Your Luggage  

Not only does disorganized luggage make it harder to find what you are looking for, it can make it easier to lose stuff or leave some items behind. 

Instead of just stuffing clothes and other items in the suitcase, pack them neatly in packing cubes. Have separate cubes for clothes, toiletries, electronics and accessories, and other stuff. This makes it so much easier to find specific items and you’ll immediately notice if something’s missing.