15 Items to Ditch When Packing for a Short Vacation

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Planning a short getaway? When you’re off for just a few days, packing smart is key. Instead of lugging around a heavy suitcase, focus on the essentials. To make your packing process a breeze, we’ve compiled a list of 15 items you can easily leave behind. This way, you can travel light and enjoy your trip without the extra baggage. Ready to pack like a pro? Let’s dive in! 

Excess Clothes

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Many times, we overthink our outfits and end up packing what can weigh us down. The shorter the vacation, the fewer garments you need. You can make your load lighter by choosing clothes that can easily create multiple looks instead of separate options for each day.

Heavy Books

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We can’t deny that having a good book on a vacation is heavenly, but a hefty book collection may not be ideal when it’s just a few days away from home. If you can sacrifice the hard copy for a soft copy on your tablet or phone, you can enjoy your hobby without too much load.

Full-Size Toiletries

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Shampoos and body wash in full-size bottles may take up more space than necessary. You may not even have to worry about that, as it is common for hotels to provide them, but if you must carry a particular product brand, you can take the travel-sized version or place it into smaller containers.

Multiple Pairs of Shoes

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Shoes are heavy compared to many other items, so you may want to consider how many you’re packing. Think of your vacation activities and which shoes can be used for two or more. All you may need for your trip could be two to three comfortable pairs.

Bulky Towels

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This is another item that hotels, hostels, or vacation rentals will likely provide for you, so there’s no need to pack your own unless you’re going somewhere that doesn’t offer them. Even in those cases, consider bringing a quick-dry travel towel instead of a regular one, as it’s much lighter and more compact.

Expensive Jewelry

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We know the temptation of bringing your favorite jewelry on your vacation, but there’s the risk of losing it. It’s better to use simple accessories that match and complement various outfits. This way, you won’t worry about forgetting something valuable at your vacation spot.

Too Many Gadgets

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Your gadgets serve different purposes, but should they all go with you on vacation? If your laptop is primarily for work, it has no place in your bag, except you’ll be working there. You can do without others if you have just your essential devices; for example, a phone can double as a camera.

Unneeded Makeup

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Keeping your makeup light on vacation may just be the best, both for your relaxation and for your luggage weight. Sometimes, foundations, mascaras, lip balms, and other simple items are all you need in your kit. You can go back to worrying about elaborate makeup when you return from vacation.

Extra Bags or Purses

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As you plan your outfit for your journey, think of which bag will best match several of them so you won’t have to pack many bags. A versatile bag like a small backpack or crossbody bag can accompany various outfits. Plus, you’ll save yourself the stress of moving things from bag to bag.

Duplicate Chargers

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Taking multiple chargers for different devices can be too much to manage while on vacation. Also, imagine the tangling war! Thankfully, nowadays, our devices can share one charger. For example, some phones, tablets, and earbuds all charge with USB-C, and they all get charged. One charger, multiple full batteries.

Hair Tools

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Hotels and vacation rentals may also provide hairdryers, so you likely won’t need to bring yours. As for other hair tools, consider whether you need to carry them or if you can get a stylist to help out during vacation. Or maybe you could embrace your natural look for a few days.

Workout Gear

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You can keep working out on vacation, but will you really have time for it? It may be best not to pack special workout gear if you don’t expect to use it. Thankfully, some simple clothes, like a light T-shirt, shorts, or yoga pants, can still be comfortable for exercise.

Big Perfume Bottles

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For people who love to mix perfumes, carrying different perfumes may be an avoidable trouble. Opt for travel-size bottles or sample vials, which are much more convenient and portable. It’s even better if you need only one perfume, as it’ll literally take up no space in your bag.

Heavy Jackets

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You probably won’t need a hefty jacket unless you go to a cold destination. Instead, pack a lighter jacket that can be layered if needed. For instance, a windbreaker or two woolen cardigans can keep you warm and will still eat up less space in your bag.

Huge First-Aid Sets

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It’s smart to bring a first-aid kit, but there’s no need to pack an entire medicine cabinet. Stick to the basics—band-aids, pain relievers, and any prescription medications you need. You can usually find what you need at local pharmacies for other health needs.

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