7 Packing Mistakes Not To Make

Packing for a trip can be a stressful activity, but don't make it more stressful than it has to be by bringing unnecessary things. Here some common mistakes that people make and a few guidelines to follow while packing, so that you don't bring more than you need to.

Items Prohibited by the TSA

If your trip is going to involve flying,check with the Transportation Security Administration to see if anything that you plan to pack is prohibited. The TSA website provides a guide on what is and is not allowed in carry-ons, checked luggage or both. Read over these guidelines and make sure you're not packing something that will be confiscated. If you have doubts about an item, leave it at home.

Regular-Sized Toiletries

Don't bother making your luggage heavier and taking up a lot of space by bringing full-sized bottles of shampoo and lotion. TSA guidelines won't allow these items in carry-ons to begin with. Take a trip to the drugstore and pick up travel-size necessities like toothpaste, deodorant, and other toiletries. These won't take up too much room and you won't have to fill your suitcase with extra weight.

Unnecessary Clothing

You should try to pack clothes that you'll be able to match with a few items, like jeans or neutral colored clothes that can be combined with several choices. These things can be worn a few times. If you want, bring small items like belts, ties, or scarves to accessorize and change your outfits around. Pack active-wear items if you're going to be doing outdoor activities. Choose quick-drying, wrinkle-resistant fabrics so you can hand-wash some items. Try to bring light fabrics, rather than heavy, bulky ones. Make sure to bring items that are necessary for the type of location that you're packing for, like a bathing suit for a beach or a sweater for a mountain. Don't stress yourself out by bringing items that you think you might wear and don't give yourself too many options to change into.

Too Many Shoes

There is no need to bring every pair of pumps and sandals that you own. It is possible to bring just two pairs of shoes. Wear your bulkier shoes on the plane or to the destination. They should be practical and versatile. Stylish winter boots can be used for sightseeing or a night out. Tennis shoes work well for long runs, walks, or hikes. You may want these shoes to be easy to remove as you'll probably have to remove them at an airport. Your second pair of shows can be dressier for a more formal occasion or even more relaxed, like flip-flops for the beach or pool.

Extra Gear

Many hotels wills provide things that you might need, like bathrobes, hair dryer, toiletries, and towels. Find out what they might provide so you don't waste packing space by bringing your own. Plan to rent equipment like gold clubs, skis, tennis rackets, scuba gear, or other things, unless you insist on carrying it around.

Bulky Reading Material

It's nice to bring along reading materials like books or magazines, but don't bring bulky items. You can also purchase a newspaper, which you'll be able to throw away after reading. Pack a small paperback book or two. You may even want to invest in an E-Reader like a Kindle or Nook, which will allow you to store several books, magazines, and newspapers on one device.

Valuables

If you want to keep your valuables, leave them at home. Luggage can be lost, pickpockets can strike, and items can go missing from hotels. Don't tempt fate. Leave your valuable jewelry, clothes, and accessories at home. Keep your cash in a safe place and travel with multiple forms of money including cash and credit cards.