The Packing Problems Nobody Warns You About (And How to Make Travel Stress-Free)

You are either the kind of person who finds packing for your travels super simple, or very overwhelming, trying to pick the right items to take with you. Many people think that this is the most stressful part of the packing process, and then you are done. However, the reality is very different. It isn’t always the most obvious things that cause you stress on your travels; it is the small, overlooked details that turn into inconvenience, time wasting or just general problems that can ruin your travels.

Packing goes beyond just your passport, toiletries and clothes. There is more to the picture. This article takes a look at some of the most commonly neglected travel packing issues and how you can fix them before they ruin your trip. Whether you are going on a long-haul adventure or heading away for a weekend city break, these are some important details that you should consider for a lighter, smoother and far less stressful travel experience.​

Forgetting the items for the travel transitions

One of the most overlooked packing mistakes that people make is only packing for the end destination. You will have likely packed a variety of outfits, shoes and accessories; however, you may have neglected to consider the moments in between and the things you will need, for example, at the airport, during your transfers, or if you are checking in late or early and don’t have access to the usual amenities.

These gaps are important because if you land in another country at 2am and the temperature is significantly different, no shops are open to get water, and you are not able to access your luggage straight away, you are going to find yourself in a very stressful situation.

When you travel, especially for longer journeys or more complicated traveling, it is important that you consider a little transition kit, either in your hand luggage or a separate little bag, like one you can attach to your waist. This may include any of the following, depending on your own travel needs:

• A clean change of underwear and socks
• Basic toiletries (facewipes, toothbrush, deodorant)
• Lightweight hoodie or layer
• Phone charger
• Travel adapter
• Sealed water and energy bar

Overpacking or adding too many “just in case” items into your luggage​

Most people overpack what they need, not just clothes, but all kinds of possibilities, from shoes to gadgets.

The problem isn’t just the weight or the space in your luggage to physically put them in there and carry it around; it is also the stress and fatigue that come with the decision-making. When there are too many options to choose from, it can slow you down every time you have to get dressed, repack and move around.

When you travel, it can be a game-changer if you consider what your essentials are and how you can mix and match some basic items. Find clothes that can mix easily to assemble different kinds of outfits each day, and even limit your colour palette so that the clothes mix more easily.

Remember that you don’t have to pack for every scenario, only the most likely ones.

Ignoring important technology

Technology is vital for modern travel. Whether you like to depend on it or not, it has an important place in safe traveling. People will remember things like their phone charger, but can forget other important aspects, such as plug compatibility, adapters and charging capacity. Arriving on your holiday with a dead phone, the wrong plug, or no ports can be a major issue, especially with everything these days being digital. Your boarding pass, hotel check in information, maps and more are all on technology.

It can be a good idea to take a step back and consider all the tech you and your family/friends rely on. Then you can create a dedicated technology pouch to slip into your bag that includes things like a universal travel adapter, a multi-port charging hub, a spare cable for each device, and a power bank. This can be a set and labelled bag if you travel frequently, so you don’t have to think about it each time.

Not considering your luggage storage after you arrive

If you have a late or super early arrival, it is easy to forget that you will need to carry all of your belongings around with you if you have not arranged for a secure location to keep them. It can be very unsafe, as well as inconvenient, to lug everything around, especially if you have a gap between your arrival time and when you can check in. Many people will plan their time, for example, with attractions or time to explore the location, but neglect to think about their stuff. This can leave you very restricted.

To make it safer, the first thing you should consider is where to store bags in your location. There are many reputable secure luggage lockers that you can use. You will also want to ensure that you have secure locks and labels on all of your luggage. Take photos of your luggage and its contents before you travel, and if you think necessary discrete tracking devices.

This can help you to avoid risk in areas that are new to you, and enable you to go out and enjoy yourself without worrying.

Thinking about when you get home

Many people will pack all of their essentials without considering that they are not going to have anything prepared for when they get home. This is where it can be helpful to think about what you need when you get home and create a “return buffer kit” that will get you through the first 24 hours you get home, when you are typically exhausted, and before you do any laundry and organising. This may consist of things like a clean outfit and a few basic toiletries.

Travel packing mistakes are extremely common, even for people who spend their lives travelling. Follow these top tips for a less stressful journey.