London - We’ve all been guilty of over-packing for a holiday, whether jetting off abroad or going on a quick weekend jaunt.
It’s easy to start dreaming up every possible weather contingency or holiday activity scenario that could have you needing those sky-high stiletto heels, full gym kit, or one of your many hair-styling gadgets.
To help you solve any of your potential packing problems, we’ve polled travel writers, fashion bloggers and beauty gurus.
BLOW-DRYERS, FLAT IRONS, CURLING IRONS
These often wind up being redundant. “Almost all hotels and many hostels have them,” says travel blogger Julie Falconer. “Hairdryers just take up a lot of space in luggage. Plus, if you’re travelling abroad, you’ll often find that your hairdryer doesn’t even work due to different electric voltage.”
MORE THAN ONE JACKET/COAT
“Too many coats and jackets can be a pain because they take up space,” says blogger Susie Bubble. “I’ve learnt to just wear one on-board and stick to it.”
A FULL GYM KIT
You may think you will work out in the hotel gym, but this is rarely the case.
Instead, you wind up taking up precious space with trainers, leggings and a sports bra that you won’t look at during your getaway.
LINGERIE
If you plan for it, that must mean you’ll meet the man of your dreams on holiday, doesn’t it? Of course there’s always a chance, but that stiff corset you shoved into your bag probably isn’t necessary when it comes to wooing said hypothetical guy.
WAY TOO MANY TAMPONS
Never mind the fact that almost any destination you’re heading off to will probably sell the products; we all know those women who insist on bringing the entire variety pack.
SEVERAL HANDBAG OPTIONS
You need one for touring during the day, a smaller option for a night out, and a carry-all for the plane, right? Before you know it, half of your suitcase is comprised of handbags.
“I take a rucksack or a roomy crossover bag with secure closures,” Susie says.
THAT BOOK YOU’VE BEEN MEANING TO READ
Chances are, if the book has been collecting dust on your bookshelf for weeks, your upcoming plane ride is almost certainly not the time you’ll finally crack it open.
LOTS OF BEAUTY PRODUCTS
An array of moisturisers and cleansers? Leave them. Nail varnish remover? Nope, you won’t use it. When it comes to taking beauty products abroad, stick to the basics and try to opt for an all-in-one compact.
Make-up artist Samantha Chapman says: “I tend to take products that have multiple purposes, like creams that have coverage and SPF.”
EXPENSIVE JEWELLERY
Why risk it?
SHOES YOU NEVER WEAR
“One pair of shoes for walking during the day and another for any dressier occasion in the evening is usually sufficient,” Julie says. “Leave the ‘just in case’ shoes at home. They take up lots of space.”
LOADS OF TRAVEL GADGETS AND ACCESSORIES
All you really need is an adaptor (depending on where you’re headed) and your smartphone to keep you connected. Skip the airport shops and the allure of those bargain travel accessories – including those inflatable pillows, hand-held fans and under-clothes money belts.
FULL-SIZE SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER
This can be a tempting one.
After all, you never know how the cold air,the heat and humidity will mess with your hair. Still, most hotels do leave mini versions out for guests. – Daily Mail