Luggage – whats enough?

Pack Your Way: The Art of Personalized Travel Packing

The countdown is on trip planned, tickets printed, and now… it’s time to pack! But what should you bring? The internet is flooded with packing videos and lists promising the most efficient, minimalist approach. And while those are great, are they right for everyone? Probably not.

Recently, I packed for a seven-hour road trip. Space wasn’t an issue, so I packed mindfully but without stress. In the end, I only used about 40% of what I brought because our rental had a washer and dryer. That experience taught me something: packing isn’t one-size-fits-all—it’s deeply personal.

Packing for Comfort vs. Packing for Efficiency

We all have our travel comforts. Some travelers meticulously curate a minimalist wardrobe, happy to reuse and wash clothes. Others prefer to pack fresh outfits for every occasion, avoiding laundry at all costs. I have a friend who, no matter the length of the trip, refuses to pack light because she won’t do laundry on vacation. And why should she? She’s on vacation to relax, not to run laundry cycles.

In contrast, in 2018, I joined friends on a 10-day European trip where we traveled with nothing but carry-on backpacks. It was a liberating experience, but not something everyone would enjoy. The key is understanding your comfort zone. Whether you prefer a streamlined wardrobe or multiple outfit options, the most important thing is to pack in a way that makes you feel at ease.

Consider the Journey, Destination, and Amenities

Packing isn’t just about what you bring; it’s about where you’re going and how you’ll get there. Here are a few factors to think about:

• Destination: Warm-weather getaway or cold-weather adventure? Layers, bathing suits, or both?
• Length of Trip: Weekend escape or month-long expedition?
• Access to Amenities: Will there be laundry facilities, or will you need to pack more?
• Type of Travel: Will you be cruising with stable luggage or trekking cobblestone streets?

Each trip is unique, and your packing list should reflect that.

Pack for You

It’s easy to get caught up in the “rules” of packing light, but remember, those rules don’t apply to everyone. If you want to board a cruise ship with three suitcases, dress to the nines every night, and have a fresh outfit for each port—do it! You paid for this trip, and it’s your time to enjoy it.

Conversely, if you’re the type to pack three days of clothes for a week-long trip, that’s equally admirable. People who hike trails like the Pacific Crest Trail carry their entire lives in a single backpack, a feat that requires meticulous planning and resilience.

The Bottom Line: Your Vacation, Your Rules

In the end, the best advice is to pack in a way that makes you happy. Bring as much or as little as you want because it’s your vacation, your adventure, and your time to unwind. Whether you’re a minimalist or a maximalist, pack with confidence—and enjoy every moment of your journey.

So, are you team pack light or team pack it all? Let me know in the comments below!