Travel experts agree on one thing you should never pack: the 'just in case' wardrobe. More than a dozen travel professionals shared their packing must-haves and items not worth bothering with, and there was little disagreement on what to leave behind.
Among the essentials recommended were a sarong, a fully charged battery pack, cereal bars and 'your favourite comb'. But the clearest consensus was on avoiding excess clothing.
Why 'just in case' outfits are a mistake
Natasha Inglis, client experience director at Good Business Travel, said many travellers regret taking too many 'just in case' outfits. She advised asking whether you will genuinely wear an item and whether it works with at least two other pieces in your suitcase. If not, it probably does not need to come, she said, recommending versatile pieces in a simple colour palette.
Joe Cronin, president of International Citizens Insurance, said he leaves the 'just in case' wardrobe at home. After years living out of a suitcase in places like Tokyo and Buenos Aires, he learned that extra shoes and jackets go unworn. Laundry is easy to find, and forgotten items can be bought on arrival, often for less than the cost of checking a heavier bag.
Packing light strategies from frequent travellers
Jim Webber, a retired teacher who runs the travel blog Travelwidstom, said he leaves as many clothes at home as possible and packs light, doing laundry on extended trips. He and his wife travelled for 17 days out west with just a carry-on and a personal item backpack each, washing clothes at hotels along the way.
Aman Thakran, founder of BharatFare, said 'just in case' items are for occasions that never happen. He travels with clothes that all go together, saving weight and often skipping the checked bag altogether.
Safari packing tips
Vummy Kihaule, founder of Tanzania Safaris, said excessive clothing is especially unnecessary on safari. Most hotels and lodges wash clothes daily and return them the same evening, so three shirts can last 10 days. Weight is also a major issue on small regional aircraft, most of which have a 15kg maximum including hand luggage.
