I’ll be the first to admit that I pack way too much for any trip, but somehow still end up without some stuff I need!
I love a good, well-planned trip, preferably to a remote location with a gorgeous beach resort. What I don’t particularly love, however, is packing for a trip. I’m an anxious packer, which means I take tons of everything I don’t need and nothing that I need. Hi, my name is Tobi, and these are the confessions of a serial over-packer.
Now, you know how people abhor certain chores, like washing plates or laundry; mine is packing, especially for a short trip. It makes me so anxious, and I’m not alone in feeling like this about packing. Decision fatigue, the fear of forgetting important things and the fear of the unknown are actual real struggles we all face, especially for short trips.
I’ve had so many trips where I arrive and realise with growing horror that I’ve forgotten to pack a few or many important things I need, and too much of something I didn’t actually need. Like the time we (friends and I) went to Lomé but somehow forgot to pack a universal travel charger. We might be neighbours, but Anglophone and Francophone-speaking African countries have different socket types. Thankfully, with a quick foray into town and clunky conversations stitched together with the help of Google Translate, we could buy one and charge all our devices.
Since then, I learnt how to pack mindfully and in a way that reduces my anxiety and ensures that I pack everything I need. I start by making a list in order of priority, starting with the non-negotiables, like my passport, yellow fever card, and underwear.
So, if you’re anything like me — a serial overpacker who somehow still forgets the essentials — here are a few tips to help you pack smarter for trips, in a way that maintains your slay.
First, you need a mindset shift for smarter packing
That anxiety you’re feeling is not the truth. Relax, and recalibrate your mind on how you think about packing. I know it sounds like corny therapy-speak, but it works, I swear. Here are a few tips to help you shift your mindset around packing.
Try the “one-week rule”
Even for longer trips, aim to pack only enough essentials for about a week, planning to do laundry or re-wear versatile pieces. So think baggy, comfortable pants in nude and neutral colours (I personally lean more towards prints in adire), maxi dresses, underwear and one or two pairs of shoes. Also, a little black dress and a comfy pair of shoes, depending on where you’re going.
Consider packing for experiences, not just for outfits
If you’re going hiking or staying at a resort, think about what would make it the best experience, and pack for that. For instance, during my last annual trip to Accra, I knew I was going to Cape Coast, to see the Elmina slave castle, and I packed for that: a pair of comfy cycling shorts, a breathable t-shirt and a bucket hat to protect my skin from the sun. Packing for experiences doesn’t mean you won’t look good or put together fire outfits, it’s a simple reminder that the joy of travel comes from what you see and do, not just how many different outfits you wear.
Challenge every “just in case” item
That anxiety tells you to pack things you don’t need or can easily get where you’re going. Ask yourself: “How likely am I to actually need this?” and “Can I buy/borrow it there if absolutely necessary?” These are questions that will help you maximise space while packing, especially if you’re travelling alone.
Next, be strategic about clothing and accessories
Try a capsule wardrobe approach
You can try to stick to a cohesive colour palette (e.g., neutrals with one accent colour) so all tops, bottoms, and layers can be mixed and matched.
Read also: As a fashion editor, this is how I pack my capsule wardrobe for a trip based on itinerary
Multi-purpose items are gold
A large scarf that doubles as a blanket, sarong, or head covering; versatile shoes that can be dressed up or down.
Limit shoes
Shoes are often the biggest culprit for weight and space. My advice would be to pack a maximum of 2-3 pairs: one comfortable walking shoe, one slightly dressier option, and possibly one specific to an activity, like sandals for the beach.
Clever packing techniques will save your life and that extra luggage fee
Explore the power of packing cubes:
Packing cubes are great. They not only help you organise, compress but also make unpacking and repacking a breeze.
Roll, don’t fold
A friend taught me this packing tip years ago, and I haven’t looked back since. It’s a classic tip for saving space and reducing wrinkles for certain fabrics.
Stuff small items
You can fill shoes with socks or underwear to maximise every inch.
Finally, streamline essentials
Use miniature toiletries or solid alternatives
Bulky bottles of skin, hair and body care can add more kilograms to your luggage. Ditch the full-sized bottles for travel-sized versions; decant them into small containers, or opt for shampoo and conditioner bars. If you’re staying at a hotel, you can skip the shampoo and conditioner altogether.
Consolidate electronics
Unless you’re travelling in a large group, all you need is one universal adapter, a multi-port charger, and essential devices. Does a laptop really need to come if a smartphone or even an iPad will suffice? Exactly.
So, there you have it: the journey from serial over-packer to mindful minimalist (or at least, a much better packer!). By shifting your mindset, being strategic about your wardrobe, embracing clever packing techniques, and streamlining your essentials, you can truly transform your travel experience.
No more arriving with a suitcase full of “just in case” items and missing the one thing you actually need. Embrace the freedom of packing smarter, and focus on what truly matters: making incredible memories on your next adventure. Happy travels!
