17 Useless Items Taking Up Space in Your Suitcase

Packing for a vacation can be a bit overwhelming, and it’s easy to overpack. Some things might seem useful at first, but they just take up space in your bag and add unnecessary weight. To make your trip easier and more enjoyable, here are some common things you don’t need to pack for your trip. Save space and keep your luggage light for a hassle-free vacation!

Too many shoes

For most vacations, you only need comfortable walking shoes and a neat pair of sandals. Stuffing your bag with walking shoes, sneakers, boots, and fancy sandals is a waste of luggage space. And since most places in Europe require walking, it’s good to pack one or two comfortable shoes. You can save that space for shopping instead.

Multiple guidebooks

We admit that holding a guidebook can be charming. But this is the digital era, and you don’t need to buy paperback guidebooks and pamphlets for every destination. You can download a city—or destination-wide tour guide on your smartphone, and you are good to go. Carrying paperback guidebooks will only add extra weight to your luggage.

Fancy clothing

Most tourists expect to hit clubs and bars while on holiday, so they’ll pack a couple of cocktail dresses and fancy outfits. Although this is a valid purchase, it’s best to pack just one or two party wear instead of going all out. Obviously, you don’t want to spend all your time going to bars and clubs.

Multiple Electronics

You likely won’t use that extra camera or laptop as much as you think. A smartphone can often serve multiple purposes, especially the latest models, including photography, navigation, and entertainment. If you really need to carry camera gear, pick the one that will serve multiple needs.

Hair styling tools

Ask yourself: How many times am I going to use a hair curler? Each place has a different environment—many don’t even allow hair to set in place due to harsh weather and strong winds. Embrace your natural hair on vacation or use minimal styling products provided by hotels.

Fancy drink bottles

Tourists will carry novelty water bottles, thermal flasks, and a casual sipping cup to board a plane. Not only does this increase their chances of being pulled by the TSA, but such containers aren’t practical for tourists. Instead of carrying bulky bottles, pack one reusable bottle that you’re going to use your entire trip.

Duplicate items

We’ve all packed two of everything just in case, be it undergarments, electronics, accessories, documents, etc. Being prepared is good, but carrying duplicate items will only increase your luggage load and possibly boost baggage fees. Make a few good-quality items, so you’re not doubtful about having another one.

Excessive snacks

Most tourists love munching on snacks, but they often overbuy and are left with heaps of crisps they won’t eat during their trip. Instead of stocking up on multiple packets, just buy 2-3 and wait until you reach your destination to get more. It’s nice to try the new flavors at the destination you’re visiting.

Full-sized toiletries

You don’t need to pack full-sized toiletries in a large bag as most airlines will offer a complimentary toiletry pack, especially on long flights. If you still want to carry toiletries, pack only a few small ones, such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, and travel-sized deodorant or roll-on.

Valuable Jewelry

Carrying valuable jewelry isn’t only unnecessary but dangerous; most tourists are more likely to encounter muggers if they’re dolled up. You don’t need to pack fancy jewelry unless you’re traveling for a wedding. If you really need to wear jewelry, carry cheap yet stylish pieces to compliment your outfits.

Specialty gadgets

We all have that one friend who buys noise-canceling headphones, sleep masks, a neck pillow, and similar fancy gadgets. It’s natural to want to be comfortable, but these gadgets will only waste your money since you can request simpler ones from the crew.

Excessive makeup

Vacation is a great time to simplify your beauty routine. Instead of bringing your full 8-step makeup products, consider a multi-purpose product like a tinted moisturizer with SPF. Embrace the natural vacation glow, and you’ll feel more comfortable than ever!

Towels

Towels are bulky, and you don’t even need to carry them in the first place, as almost every hotel provides clean towels to its guests. Bringing your own towel is unnecessary except for specific activities like camping. Even for that, you can always buy a towel from a local market.

Hard Copies Of Documents

Carrying hard copies adds bulk to your luggage and is often unnecessary. Keep essential documents like passports in a compact wallet, but store others digitally if possible. You can keep a single set of important papers and rest on your phone or tablet if needed.

Full-Sized Perfume Bottles

Bringing full-sized perfume bottles can be a hassle since they take up a lot of space and might break during transit. Instead, pack a travel-sized spray or a solid perfume stick. It saves space, and you won’t have to worry about them spilling into your luggage. You can carry it anywhere in your purse.

Heavy Jackets

Heavy, bulky jackets take up a lot of space in luggage. Depending on the destination you’re visiting, pick versatile options such as wind-proof jackets or warm thermals to wear under coats or sweaters. Try layering smartly, and if you need to carry a heavy jacket or coat, consider wearing it during the flight to save luggage space.

Multiple Pairs of Sunglasses

You will need only one good pair of sunglasses on vacation. Bringing multiple pairs will only take space and add clutter which you won’t really need. Keep one pair that goes well with your outfits and has a good UV protection. This way, you’ll have space for other essentials that you may need on vacation.

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This article was first published at Rbitaliablog.