So you are traveling again, and you are trying (unsuccessful) to get your suitcase closed. What things do you really need on your trip abroad, and what things can you leave at home? Well there is no clear cut answer for everything, because every trip is different. Going to be hiking and sleeping in a tent on your trip? Then you probably need different gear and clothing than if you are staying in a 4 star hotel in Venice.

So while we can’t give you all the answers, here are a few suggestions of things NOT to bring:

1.) Books & Magazines

Who doesn’t like a good book, or two… or three. Yet how often have you traveled and not even opened up one of the books you brought. Try to limit how many you take with you to the bare minimum, like maybe one, unless you are really an avid reader on your vacations. Books end up taking not only a lot of space, but they add a lot of weight to your luggage too.

If you really need to bring more books, consider bringing a Kindle, Nook, or other e-Reader. This can really cut down on how much weight you have and you can download more books than you could ever read in your week of vacation.

2.) Five Pairs of Shoes

Often we pack things “just in case” and most of the time never end up using them. This is often the case with shoes. Do you really need hikers? Or will you be fine with a normal pair of sneakers? Try to bring shoes you have that are more versatile.

Maybe try waterproofing your sneakers instead of packing sneakers and rain boots, unless you plan to be walking through lots of puddles. Try in general to try to limit the shoes you bring to two, or maximum three pairs. You’ll save space and weight in your luggage.

(Note: also don’t take new shoes that you haven’t broken in. You’ll most likely end up with blisters on your feet.)

3.) Ten Outfits

Worried that you won’t have enough clothes? What happens if a shirt or pair of pants gets dirty? What about if your skirt rips? Too often we plan for the “what if” that never happens. You can always wash your clothes in the sink if you need to and hang them up to dry. If a pair of clothes rips or tears, then unless you are deep in the bush in Kenya you can probably find somewhere to buy a new article of clothing

Some people can get by with just three outfits, others need five but just test and see what things you can cut out. Also try to cut down on bulky items such as jeans if you need to pack more outfits for some reason. Going to Morocco then you probably don’t need a rain jacket. Hiking and camping in the Alps in the summer, yes make sure you have a warmer jacket just in case.

4.) At Towel

Most hotels, Airbnb rentals and friends have towels that you can use. Maybe you need one for going to the beach, but only if you really plan on swimming. Towels though, often take up a lot of space that could be used for other things that you won’t find so easily. In a pinch you can use a tshirt if you really don’t have anything else (as long as you don’t have too long of hair to wash), or for a few dollars you can buy a cheap towel to use on the trip.

5.) Expensive Things

It may go without saying, but keep the expensive and breakable things at home. You never know if you’ll lose a suitcase on your way to your destination. And you’ll end up worrying more about your things than focusing on your trip and enjoying yourself. 

For sure there are other things that you should refrain for packing, but that will depend on you. Maybe you don’t think you’ll ever be able to travel with just a 45L backpack, but at least maybe you won’t have to sit on your suitcase to get it zipped closed.