Let's Talk Packing--An over-packers guide to keeping it under 50 lbs.

An over- packer’s guide to keeping it under 50 lbs.

Every time I travel, I always make sure to set aside a few hours for airport shenanigans. Get through TSA, grab an overpriced Starbucks, and people-watch from my gate. I also make sure a good 30 minutes is allotted for the time in which I am forced to hectically shove items from my checked bag into my carry-on because I overpacked (again).

I am the BIGGEST over-packer, and it’s a miracle from the Lord above when my bag is under the 50-pound limit.

If you’re anything like me, you probably get snarky comments from your partner too. My favorite: “You know we are only going to be there for three days, right?”

While packing for a trip can be a thrilling experience — as you’re all hopped up on pre-travel jitters — there are some tricks I’ve picked up that could help my fellow over-packers avoid those annoying excess baggage fees and have an overall easier traveling experience.

✈️ Use a smaller suitcase

My favorite suitcase is giant and probably weighs a solid 10 pounds on its own. Using a smaller suitcase basically forces you to pack less, resulting in a lighter weight. It’s also easier to carry around and takes up less space in an Uber or taxi.

✈️ Pack the toiletries/makeup/beauty products in your carry-on

I think my makeup bag alone takes up half a suitcase. Throw in the hair tools and personal hygiene products, and there’s the entire 50 pounds right there. Saving the suitcase for just the shoes and clothes and packing the personal care items in the carry-on eliminates this issue. My beauty products are also super expensive — and perhaps my most treasured items — so keeping them close to me, where I know they won’t get lost or stolen, is a huge plus.

BUT DON’T FORGET THE LIQUID RULE! According to the TSA website, you are allowed to bring a quart-sized bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes in your carry-on bag and through the checkpoint. These are limited to travel-sized containers that are 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per item.

✈️ Pack dual-purpose shoes

I know it’s tempting to pack a completely different shoe for each outfit. You need the nude heels with the pink dress and the red pumps with the black suit. But shoes take up a lot of space and can be heavy, depending on the shoe. (One time, I tried to pack three pairs of knee-high boots for a very short winter vacation. LOL.) Packing one or two pairs that could go with every outfit is the way to go. Just a tip: You can’t go wrong with a minimal strappy sandal. According to Byrdie, “The floss-thin straps have a '90s nod and blend naturally with whatever you pair them with, even if you opt for an unconventional colorway.”

✈️ Bring outfits you can mix and match

Time to hop on the capsule wardrobe trend and pack staple pieces you can mix and match; this will save you a lot of weight and space. The trick is to prepare the outfits ahead of time, so you aren’t throwing a bunch of pieces in your luggage that you may or may not wear. Check out this Pinterest board of 650 mix-and-match ideas for 2022 for ideas!

✈️ Wear your bulky items on your body

Jackets and sweatshirts take up a lot of space. Instead of packing them in your suitcase — wear them. Wear your jacket and tie the sweatshirt around your waist. Airports and airplanes tend to be on the colder side anyway, and having a sweatshirt to snuggle while you take your mid-flight nap is a huge bonus.

Next time you pack for your trip, use these tips to surprise your friends and family with how light your luggage is. You’ll have an easier experience at the airport overall and have more time for those airport bar mimosas.

Safe travels!