8 Tips To Avoid Overpacking In 2025
We’ve all been there—getting to your holiday or weekend getaway and thinking, “What on earth did I pack?” or “I’ve got nothing to wear!” Chances are, it’s because your packing wasn’t organised. We’ve got 8 game-changing tips for 2025 to help you avoid overpacking, ditch those expensive baggage fees, and never feel like you’re stuck with nothing to wear again! Once you’ve got your packing routine down, it’ll feel like a breeze every time you hit the road!
Pick The Right Suitcase
Don’t go too big with your suitcase. A larger suitcase just invites overpacking, baggage fees, and clothes sliding around, leaving you with wrinkled clothes. A medium-sized case is your best bet—just the right fit for a week’s clothes and way easier to carry. Or opt for rolling bags - The North Face Base Camp Bags are a favourite!
Start Early!
Packing turns into stressful chaos when left until the last minute. You’ll definitely stray from your packing list and end up adding a ridiculous amount of stuff for every occasion. Avoid this by starting to pack early!
5-4-3-2-1
If you’re a chronic over-packer, the 5-4-3-2-1 method could be your game-changer. The 5-4-3-2-1 packing method keeps things simple: 5 tops, 4 bottoms, 3 shoes, 2 dresses, and 1 accessory set (think jewellery, sunglasses, and a hat). It’s super flexible and can be tweaked —swap a swimsuit for a jacket depending on your destination. The concept is simple: pack less, wear more.
Plan Your Outfits Ahead
It may sound obvious, but a lot of people skip this step! Instead of tossing random items into your case, take a moment to plan each day’s outfit. Opt for versatile pieces you can mix and match, and avoid packing too many statement pieces that only work with one look.
Try On Your Outfits Before You Pack
It might seem like a hassle, but try on everything you want to take away! It’s not just about fit—it’s about making sure your pieces work together and actually look good when you put them on!
Picture Your Outfits
Once you’re happy with an outfit choice snap a picture in the mirror or create a digital wardrobe! This way you’ll have a mini look-book of pre-planned outfits ready to go, so you can breeze through mornings without the stress of figuring out what to wear!
Pack For The Destination, Not The Weather You Want
It is tempting to pack for every possible scenario (dinner parties, hiking, beaches, etc), but focus on what you’ll actually do at your destination. Check to see what the weather is like and pack accordingly. If it doesn’t have a purpose, leave it out!
Allow Yourself A Guilty Pleasure
We’re not here to be that strict! While we recommend keeping statement pieces to a minimum, if there’s something that screams “perfect for a tan” or that top you haven’t worn in ages but think this could be its moment—go ahead and pack it! The trick is to add just one guilty pleasure, not fill your entire suitcase with them! Keep it balanced.
