We’ve all been there, sitting on the suitcase to zip it shut, only to use half the things we packed. Over-packing doesn’t just waste space; it can also cost you extra baggage fees and add stress at the airport.
To help you travel lighter, here are ten things you really don’t need to take on holiday and smarter alternatives to pack instead.
- Tons of toiletries
Travel-size versions of popular products are available in supermarkets and chemists, so there’s no need to take a full litre of your favourite shampoo, conditioner or shower gel. If you’re a frequent flyer, buy some small, refillable travel-size bottles and keep them topped up with your essentials before you travel.
Pro tip: Keep a pre-packed “travel toiletry kit” ready for future trips.
- Gallons of your favourite grub
Everyone’s got their own favourite brand of tea, snacks and sweets, but if you’re taking the trouble to travel away from home, why not see what’s on offer at your destination? You may actually find something you like even more than what you have at home.
Take instead: one comfort snack for the journey and enjoy discovering new flavours when you arrive.
- Billions of books
The space-saving solution to every reader’s travel library is obviously an e-reader like a Kindle or Kobo. Load it up with books before you travel and save yourself space and weight in your suitcase. If guidebooks are an essential, photocopy the pages you’re going to use and put the sheets of paper in your case, rather than the book. Dispose of the photocopies when you’ve visited the tourist attraction, and gain even more case space for your souvenirs.
Take instead: load your phone, Kindle or tablet with e-books, audiobooks, and offline travel guides.
- A tower of towels
If you’re travelling to a hotel, check the small print and you’ll find that the majority will supply you with enough towels to see you through your stay. If you must take your own, or towels aren’t available, look into microfiber towels. These innovative new towels are thin and smooth, like a thick cotton sheet, and not only are they super absorbent, but they also dry in a fraction of the time of a traditional cotton towel.
Take instead: a small microfibre towel, perfect for beach days or emergencies, and it folds up small.
- A vault of valuables
We know you love your gadgets, and a bit of bling can make or break an outfit, but can you really afford to take the risk of it going missing thousands of miles from home? Regardless of whether your room has a safe or the hotel has superb security, it’s still possible for things to go missing – accidentally or thanks to light-fingered intruders. If you really can’t go without your iPad or sparkly earrings, look for cheaper versions of tech or realistic costume jewellery which won’t break your heart if it’s not coming home with you.
If you really can’t go without your iPad or sparkly earrings, look for cheaper versions of tech or realistic costume jewellery, which won’t break your heart if it’s not coming home with you.
- Too Many Clothes
We all do it: we pack those “just in case” outfits that feel reassuring in the moment but never actually make it out of the suitcase. They take up space, add weight, and end up being hauled halfway around the world for no reason. The truth is, most destinations offer easy access to laundry services, hotel washing facilities, or even a simple sink-and-soap solution—so there’s rarely a need to overpack.
Instead, focus on versatile, mix-and-match pieces that work harder for you. Choose clothing that can be layered, styled casually during the day, and easily dressed up at night with a change of shoes or accessories. Neutral colors, lightweight fabrics, and wrinkle-resistant materials go a long way toward creating multiple outfits from just a few items.
Take Instead: Pack for one week, no matter how long you’re away. Rewear your favorites, rinse items as needed, and repeat. You’ll travel lighter, move more freely, and spend less time managing your luggage—and more.
- Multiple Pairs of Shoes
It’s tempting to bring shoes for every possible outfit—sandals, trainers, heels, maybe even a backup pair “just in case.” But in reality, most travellers end up rotating between the same two pairs for the entire trip, while the rest sit untouched at the bottom of the bag.