What I Packed in My Suitcase Thinking I’d Use It (and I Didn’t)

Traveling always comes with a mix of excitement and anxiety—especially when it comes to packing. Over the years, I’ve learned that many of the items I consider “essential” end up untouched, while a few simple items carry most of the value. On a recent week-long trip to a coastal European city, I decided to track everything I packed and note what I actually used. The results were both surprising and educational.

The Overambitious Packing List

Before every trip, I make a mental checklist of everything I think I might need. This time, I accounted for sunny days, cool evenings, beach visits, city walks, and even a fancy dinner. I wanted to be prepared for every scenario. In theory, this was smart; in reality, it led to overpacking.

The “Just in Case” Clothing

My suitcase was overflowing. I brought three pairs of shoes—sneakers for walking, sandals for the beach, and dress shoes for evenings. There were multiple dresses, jeans, blouses, shorts, and a light jacket. I imagined creating different outfits each day, mixing and matching as needed.

In reality, I wore maybe half of the clothes. The sandals never left the suitcase, the jacket stayed folded, and one dress remained packed. Comfortable sneakers and casual outfits dominated my daily wardrobe. I learned that “fashionably prepared” often outweighs practical use—but in my case, practicality won.

Gadgets and Electronics

I packed a camera with an extra lens, a tripod, two chargers, a power bank, noise-canceling headphones, and a Kindle. My goal was to document every moment, stay entertained, and have backup options for any situation.

However, the reality was different. I relied almost entirely on my phone for photos, navigation, and music. The camera and tripod were bulky and inconvenient for day-to-day use. The Kindle never left the suitcase, and the headphones only came out during one noisy bus ride. Electronics, I discovered, must serve a clear, frequent purpose to justify their space and weight in the bag.

Beauty and Personal Care Items

I packed a full toiletry bag: travel-sized shampoo, conditioner, face masks, sunscreen, moisturizer, makeup, and even a mini hair straightener. I imagined keeping up with my full routine despite being away from home.

Minimal Use, Maximum Weight

Most items went largely unused. Sunscreen saw some action during sunny beach days, but face masks and makeup were mostly ignored. The hair straightener stayed untouched as I embraced a more natural look. These items added bulk without adding value, teaching me to pack lighter personal care essentials that are versatile and practical.

Books and Entertainment

I also brought a paperback novel, a travel journal, and a deck of cards, imagining quiet evenings reflecting on the day’s adventures.

Unexpected Digital Distractions

Instead of reading or journaling, I spent most of my downtime scrolling podcasts, social media, or chatting with fellow travelers. The book and cards remained in my bag. This highlighted how digital devices often replace traditional forms of entertainment, particularly when travel schedules are active and engaging.

Miscellaneous Items That Stayed Put

Other items included an umbrella, a sewing kit, binoculars, and a reusable water bottle. I thought these would be essential for sightseeing and unpredictable weather. Yet, I only used the umbrella once (buying a local one was more convenient), the sewing kit was never needed, the binoculars stayed in the suitcase, and the water bottle was rarely refilled because fountains were easily available.

What I Actually Used and Why

Reflecting on the trip, it became clear that the essentials were simple and lightweight: comfortable clothes and shoes, a phone, minimal toiletries, and a small notebook for notes. Everything else added weight without meaningful use.

Overpacking can create mental clutter as much as physical bulk. It leads to stress over “what if” scenarios that rarely occur. Traveling light allowed for spontaneity, freedom of movement, and more focus on experiences rather than possessions.

The Joy of Traveling Light

After this experience, I changed my packing habits permanently. I now begin with a few key questions: What will I realistically use every day? What items serve multiple purposes? This approach has saved time, energy, and suitcase space on every subsequent trip.

Tips for Packing with Purpose

Prioritize Comfort Over Appearance

Clothing should prioritize comfort, weather-appropriateness, and versatility. Instead of packing for every potential occasion, choose pieces that can be mixed and matched and are suitable for multiple activities.

Limit Electronics to What You’ll Actually Use

Only bring devices that serve frequent, practical purposes. Avoid overloading your bag with cameras, tablets, or gadgets unless they have a clear and consistent role during your trip.

Streamline Toiletries

Pack essential personal care items only, focusing on multi-purpose products like sunscreen with moisturizer or travel-sized shampoo-conditioner combos. Leave behind bulky extras that won’t get regular use.

Leave Room for Souvenirs and Spontaneity

Overpacking leaves no room for items acquired during travel. A lighter suitcase encourages flexibility, allowing you to bring home meaningful items without struggling with extra weight.

Final Thoughts: Packing Smart, Traveling Light

My overambitious packing experience taught me that less is more. Focusing on essentials and intentionally choosing items improves comfort, reduces stress, and allows more freedom to enjoy the journey. Experiences matter more than the contents of a suitcase.

Next time you pack, ask yourself: what will I truly use? What items serve multiple purposes? What can I leave behind without regret? Traveling with purpose and intention makes the adventure lighter, freer, and more enjoyable.

Happy travels, and may your suitcase be light and your memories heavy!