Packing a bag for a trip is an art that doesn’t always get a lot of respect. It’s a task that seems so simple, yet people constantly find that they have suitcases full of spilled liquids, wrinkled clothing, or simply not enough of the right clothing for their time away from home.
If you want to enjoy your next vacation and not have to worry about a poorly-packed bag, you will want to avoid these common packing mistakes.
Packing Liquids Incorrectly
The TSA has very strict guidelines when it comes to how much of a liquid can be stored in a carry-on bag. All liquids need to be under 3.4 ounces, and they need to fit into a one-quart plastic bag. Many people forget this and end up packing several bottles of their favorite shampoo or makeup on their carry-on. Make sure that any liquids that you bring onto the plane with you are in small quantities and in plastic bags. When you have to pack larger quantities of shampoo or liquid soap into your luggage, wrap them in plastic so they don’t spill all over your other belongings.
Over-Packing
As much as you might want to prepare for anything that could happen on your trip, you won’t be needing as many clothes as you think you will. As a rule, you only need three tops to every bottom, and you can easily get away with wearing the same pair of pants for more than one day. You’ll be traveling fairly light if you follow this rule, especially if you’re going to be away from home for less than a week.
Not Checking the Weather
Nobody can predict the weather with 100 percent accuracy, but you should at least know what kind of climate you’re going to be in when you travel. Look up weather reports and forecasts for your destination, and plan your outfits accordingly.
Waiting Until the Last Minute
This is perhaps the biggest and costliest mistake that people make when it comes to packing for a trip. When you don’t start packing your bags until right before you have to leave, you will forget something important or pack a dress shirt in a way that makes it look like a wrinkled mess. Start packing your days at least one day in advance, and give yourself time double-check that you have everything you need.