The easiest way to go overboard is to start packing without a plan. How long is the trip? What’s the climate? Are you going to Michelin three-star restaurants or sticking to street food? How many pairs of underwear is reasonable?
The world’s most frequent flier is Tom Stuker, a New Jersey car dealership consultant who has clocked more than 23 million miles. He has a simple method: Instead of packing for the millions of “what if” scenarios, pack only what you absolutely need, plus one backup, and make sure it’s easy to clean.
As you calculate those needs, be straight with yourself, says Yolanda Edwards, founder of the luxury travel magazine Yolo Journal. If you don’t actually like working out on vacation, skip the exercise clothes. While you’re doing that soul-searching, reflect on your past trips: What were items you definitely needed, and what could you have left behind?
“You’re going to be the one who, when you get home, you’re like, ‘I didn’t wear eight of those things, but I swore I needed them,’” Edwards said. “Try and remember all of those packing mistakes, and try not to repeat them.”
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