Things You Think You Need to Pack But Absolutely Don’t

(4 minute read)

And yes, we’re looking at you, fifth “just-in-case” outfit.

Packing is a psychological exercise disguised as logistics. You start with good intentions. You lay everything out neatly. You tell yourself you’ll pack light. And then suddenly, you're sitting on your suitcase, trying to zip up an entire “emotional support wardrobe” you’ll never wear. You’re not alone—we’ve all played packing Jenga with our dignity.

We’ve seen it all. Here’s a lovingly judgmental list of things you think you need—but really, truly don’t.

1. A Hair Straightener
We get it. Humidity is real. Frizz is personal. But unless you’re attending a destination wedding or doing a live news broadcast from Porto, no one expects you to have a blowout on a cobblestone street. Not to mention, most American hair straighteners aren’t compatible with European voltage unless they’re dual-voltage—so you’ll probably either need a clunky power converter or risk frying your straightener (and the socket) the moment you plug it in.

What to bring instead: A scarf. It works in wind, sun, rain, and sudden “why is my hair doing this” moments. Bonus: doubles as a pillow, shawl, or emergency outfit upgrade.

2. More Than Two Pairs of Jeans
Jeans are great. Universally flattering, almost immune to stains, and somehow always appropriate. But they’re bulky, heavy, and basically take three days to air dry in a European apartment with no dryer and a questionable rack on the balcony.

Better option: One well-fitting pair + a comfy day option. Maybe even a pair you could sleep in, if things go sideways. You’ll be fine.

3. Shoes for Every Hypothetical Scenario
No, you won’t be invited to a gala in Vienna you forgot to mention. And no, you don’t need both wedge heels and “walking sandals” and cute boots and your running shoes just in case you start running on vacation. If your shoes get their own suitcase, rethink your priorities.

Smart swap: One pair for walking, one pair for looking nice-ish. Done. Add a blister patch and call it fashion.

4. A Full Pharmacy “Just in Case”
Yes, bring meds you know you’ll need. No, you do not need thirty packets of motion sickness pills, a wrist brace, and a full-size bottle of Pepto-Bismol “for peace of mind.” You’re traveling, not establishing a mobile clinic.

Reality check: Europe has pharmacies. They’re clean, efficient, well-stocked, and won’t shame you for needing antacids, foot cream, or three Band-Aids and a prayer.

5. Clothes You Don’t Even Wear at Home
That one shirt that’s “almost flattering”? The jumpsuit you’ve never worn because it’s a bathroom nightmare? The maxi dress that photographs great but makes you itch? Leave them. If you don’t love it in your normal life, you won’t suddenly love it in Lisbon.

Travel mantra: If it’s not a “hell yes,” it’s a “no.” Your suitcase deserves better.

6. A Novel That Could Double as a Doorstop
You’re not going to read all 800 pages of that literary epic on a moving train through Switzerland. You’re just not. Between navigating train changes, deciphering menus, and staring wistfully out the window, you’ll get through maybe 42 pages.

Pro tip: One slim paperback or a Kindle. And a little self-awareness.

7. A Towel
No offense to the backpackers who swear by the microfiber square that never dries, but most accommodations provide towels. Unless you’re camping—or have a deep emotional connection to your bath linen—skip it.

Unless: You are planning beach days, impromptu swims, or you're a die-hard “air-dry on the go” enthusiast. Even then, think compact.

8. A Backup “Day Bag” for Your Backup Day Bag
If your bag has bags inside it... take a moment. Breathe. Ask yourself: “Am I going somewhere or am I nesting?” Unless you’re a traveling magician, one day bag is enough.

Rule of thumb: If your luggage feels like a Russian nesting doll of canvas totes, reconsider your system.

9. Outfits for an Entire Alternate Personality
No, you probably won’t go clubbing in Berlin, hiking in the Dolomites, and attending a countryside wedding all in one trip. We love the ambition, but your suitcase is suffering. Plan for the trip you’re actually taking, not the fantasy version with ten distinct aesthetics.

Reality check: Versatile pieces beat costume changes. A black dress and good shoes go farther than you think.

Final Thought: You’re Not Packing for a Crisis
You’re going somewhere wonderful. You’ll look fine. You’ll survive with fewer options. And you’ll thank yourself when you’re not dragging a 23kg suitcase up four flights of stairs in Prague. Or sprinting through Madrid airport with a duffel that contains your regrets.

At Tripologiste, we help you pack smarter because we’ve already packed wrong (many times). Let us help you avoid our mistakes, one less-overstuffed bag at a time.

Got a packing regret or a “what was I thinking?” item you brought on a trip? Drop it in the comments—we’re collecting confessions, and judgment is lovingly optional.