What I’d Pack Differently for Next Time

I used to think I had packing down. Like, spreadsheets-optional but still-pretty-efficient down. But one mildly chaotic trip, a few underwhelming outfits, and a pair of “emergency” shoes that never made it out of the suitcase later — I’ve got notes.

This wasn’t a total disaster, let’s be clear. Some things worked beautifully (shoutout to my linen pants). Others? Not so much. I realized I was packing for an idea of the trip, not the actual rhythm of it. And as someone who preaches intentional dressing, it felt only right to own that.

So here’s the breakdown: what I overpacked, what I didn’t pack enough of, the MVPs I’d bring again in a heartbeat, and the tweaks I’m making for next time. Consider this part travel diary, part style reality check — because suitcases don’t lie.

✈️ Why This Trip Was the Packing Wake-Up Call

I’ve always considered myself a decent packer — not minimalist, not chaotic, just… considered. But this trip? It threw me. Somewhere between the weather apps lying to me and the dinners that ended up fancier than I’d packed for, I realized a few things about what actually gets worn and what just takes the scenic route inside my suitcase.

The Destination That Surprised Me

I went in expecting breezy walks, café lounging, and a couple of dressier nights. Instead, it was mostly hills, unexpected rain, and a last-minute invite to a rooftop cocktail thing I had exactly zero outfits prepped for. Cute in theory, stressful in practice.

What I Thought I Packed Well For

I had my mood board, my packing cubes, and my “versatile basics” lined up. But even the most well-planned outfits can flop if the vibe shifts. And trust me — it shifted. What looked easy and chic in my living room didn’t exactly translate to cobblestone streets and humidity.

Why I’m Writing This

Not because I think I’ve unlocked the perfect packing formula — far from it. But because sharing the why-didn’t-I-pack-that moments might save someone else from overstuffing a suitcase with things that’ll never see daylight. And honestly? I needed this reminder too.

🧥 What I Overpacked (and Didn’t Wear)

Let’s have a moment of silence for the clothes that flew international only to live inside a zippered cube. I had good intentions. But good intentions don’t always translate to good outfits — especially when comfort, weather, and mood get involved.

Too Many ‘Statement’ Pieces

I brought three dresses that all required the right shoes, the right bra, and, frankly, the right energy. Guess how many I wore? One — and only because it was already steamed and I was running late. The rest felt too… extra for what the trip ended up being. Note to self: not every outfit needs to have a “moment.”

The Backup Shoes That Stayed in the Hotel

I packed a pair of sleek mules “just in case” — and those cases never came. They were cute, yes. But not walk-all-day cute. Meanwhile, I reached for the same worn-in sandals every time. Turns out, dependable beats stylish-when-sitting-down every time.

That Extra Sweater

You’d think I was prepping for a mountaintop retreat. It never got that cold. I carried it around twice, wore it zero times, and mostly resented the space it took up. It might have been cute, but cute doesn’t count if it never leaves the packing cube.

👖 What I Underpacked (and Regretted)

If the overpacked pieces were dead weight, the underpacked ones were glaring holes in my outfit options. You know that “ugh, I wish I had…” feeling? Yeah. That showed up more than once — usually right before dinner or mid-walk when I questioned all my shoe choices.

A Second Pair of Walkable Flats

One pair made it in. They did the job — until they didn’t. A backup pair, even just a slightly dressier flat, would’ve saved my feet and my outfits. Lesson learned: the sweet spot is one reliable sandal, one comfy sneaker, and something that looks like you tried.

One More Everyday Top

I leaned hard on two tops I loved, and by day four, I was wishing for a third that wasn’t silk, sheer, or shouting for attention. Just a solid, easy-to-wear piece I wouldn’t have to baby. Note for future me: don’t underestimate the power of a plain tee with good stitching.

A Packable Steamer

This one hurt. My dresses had promise — until they met the inside of my suitcase. A steamer would’ve made at least two of them wearable again. I’m officially adding the Nori Press Travel Steam Iron to my packing essentials — it’s sleek, compact, and honestly, it would’ve saved at least one rooftop outfit.. Hotel irons are like wildcards with temperature issues.

🎒 What Actually Earned Its Spot

Not everything was a packing fail. A few pieces came through — big time. These were the ones I wore, rewore, and reached for without hesitation. No fuss, no regrets, just clothes that worked with me instead of against me.

The Linen Pants That Carried the Trip

If I had to crown a trip hero, it’d be these Abercrombie & Fitch Linen-Blend Tailored Straight Pants. Lightweight but not flimsy, loose but still tailored enough to feel intentional. They’re officially in my travel hall of fame.

One Good Blazer

This one surprised me — in the best way. I threw it over a slip dress one night, then over a tee and denim shorts the next. It made everything feel a little more styled, even when I barely had time to change. Pro tip: pick one that breathes. Nobody wants to sweat through structure.

The Just-Roomy-Enough Tote

My CUYANA Classic Easy Tote held snacks, a travel-size SPF, two receipts I still haven’t sorted, and somehow still looked polished. A rare combo of form and function — and my favorite travel companion that isn’t human. 

What I’ll Do Differently Next Time

After unpacking my bag (and my packing mistakes), I’ve come to a few conclusions. No, I won’t suddenly become a capsule wardrobe queen. But I will be a little more intentional — and a little less “just in case.”

Build Outfits, Not Just Items

Here’s where I tripped up: I packed individual pieces I loved, but not enough full looks. Going forward, if it doesn’t pair with at least three other things, it’s not making the cut. Bonus points for anything that layers without bulking or clashes.

Prioritize Repeat Wear

I’ve made peace with rewearing outfits. In fact, I kind of love it. If I feel great in it on day one, odds are I’ll want it again by day three. So I’ll pack fewer “options” and more things I know I’ll grab again. Less variety, more satisfaction.

Leave Room for a New Find

Let’s not pretend I’m not going to shop on the trip. I always find something local — a scarf, a skirt, a pair of earrings I didn’t know I needed. So why not plan for that? Next time, I’m leaving a little space (literally and stylistically) for that spontaneous piece to shine.

Pack Light, Pack Better

I used to think smart packing meant squeezing as many “options” as possible into a carry-on. Now? I think it’s about knowing yourself, your trip, and what actually earns its place in your bag. Spoiler: it’s not the heels I didn’t wear or the dress I was saving for a “maybe” dinner that never happened.

What Worked, What Didn’t

Some pieces pulled their weight, others just pulled focus. The goal isn’t perfection — it’s refining. I’m learning to listen to what I actually wear on trips, not what I think I should wear. And honestly? That mindset feels better than anything I packed.

Would I Do It Again? With Adjustments

Definitely. But next time, I’ll swap those backup shoes for another wear-everywhere top. I’ll pack for my real-life energy, not my Pinterest board. And I’ll leave a little wiggle room — in my bag and my plans — for the unexpected moments that always end up being the best part.

Style is personal, but good taste speaks loud.