5 items to not bother packing for an overseas trip
Packing for overseas travel can be difficult, but sometimes we make it harder than it needs to be. If you took a moment to think of all the items you’ve lugged through airports, onto flights and in taxis over the years, we think you’d be surprised at how few of those items you actually used. Here are five items that commonly find their way into people’s suitcases, but really aren’t worth bringing.
Books
Reading on vacation is one of life’s small joys. Carrying a suitcase that contains six books through a crowded airport is not. Books are serial space-thieves so if you can get by with just one, do it. If you’re a serious reader maybe it’s time to invest in a Kindle or tablet, but even if not there’s going to be countless opportunities to pick up more reading material while you’re on the road.
Laptop computer
Having a laptop handy may seem like a good idea, but it’s potentially risky. Think of it this way – if someone was to swipe your laptop, or it was crushed underneath a particularly heavy bag on the baggage carousel we bet you’d be less than pleased. Smartphones are effectively little computers in their own right, so if you have one of those there’s really no reason to have a laptop in tow.
Excessive toiletries
We all have our favourite brands, but these can take up a lot of suitcase space. We’re not advocating abandoning the toothbrush completely, but you should purchase travel-friendly sizes when you’re packing. Also, hotels often provide soap, shampoo and even beauty-care appliances like hairdryers, which is an opportunity to save even more space without having to lug a mini-salon around.
Footwear
When it comes to items that take up too much suitcase space for the amount of times they’re actually used on a trip, footwear is one of the main culprits. On most holidays you don’t need anything more than a pair of nice-enough shoes for going out for dinner at restaurants, comfortable joggers for wearing around and perhaps a pair of sandals and thongs in warmer climates.
Jewellery
This one may seem pretty self-explanatory, but you would be surprised at how many people actually take expensive, sentimental pieces of jewellery with them overseas. Aside from taking up unnecessary space in your bag, there’s a big chance that this jewellery may get stolen, misplaced or even just lost in transit. You may look fantastic with that necklace and bracelet, but it also potentially makes you a target for conmen and criminals, and you can really do without the hassle.
What you said…
We asked our Over60 community whether there was anything they regretted taking overseas. The response was overwhelming, and some of the advice was fantastic. Here are some comments –
Valerie Howitt - Take half the clothes and twice the money.
Mike Cross - After every trip separate the stuff in suitcase into 2 piles, what I used and what I did not use. Remember for the next time. This will lead to a dramatic reduction in your suitcase size.
Kerri Moore - Always take a good light fold up jacket the weather can change even in summer.
Cecilia McKay - Best to pack your bag and then take half out.
Juliet Reynolds - I don't take jeans - they are too heavy - cotton pants are much better and can be dressed up and down.
Fay Cameron - In regards to clothes, if you rarely, or never, wear it at home, don't pack it. You won't wear it away from home either, no matter how 'nice' and new it is.
Sandra Lynn Enud - Hang all your clothes and accessories around your bedroom for two weeks prior. Take down anything that doesn't match several other things or just not needed.
Mary Campagnolo - Keep cosmetics to minimum. If you read, load your iPad with books before you leave and make sure you download them at home in case you have no internet when away.