How to Pack for a 2-Week Vacation

Every December when I go on a two week holiday, I either pack too many things or too little. I just cannot seem to get it right.

I often find myself in a panic, throwing clothes into a suitcase the night before a trip. Or worse, you pack so early you forget what you’ve packed and end up with no underwear or three toothbrushes.

This article probably comes a bit late as everyone is already away for the December holidays, but here are some tips regardless, on how to pack for a stress-free getaway.

• The best of course is to pack early. Begin thinking about what to pack at least 3 weeks before you leave, and start to plan your packing list accordingly. Try beginning the actual packing process 2 weeks before your leave to allow time for adjustments. This will help you select your trip clothing thoughtfully, prevents last-minute stress, and ensures you have everything you need for your trip. Finalize your suitcase a few days before.

• I can’t do all this without a detailed packing list to make sure I don’t forget anything. Your packing list should include everything from clothing (considering layers and versatility) to shoes, accessories, jewelry, toiletries (preferably in small sized to save space), gadgets like electronics (chargers, adapters...), a book(s) to read on holiday, important documents (passports, tickets, etc), health items (medications, supplements, hand sanitizer, etc), and food (for the road or destination)

• Begin packing the items you won’t need before you leave, like certain toiletries.

• Aim for a week’s worth of outfits if you’re able to do laundry there.

• Pack light and pack smart. Focus on the clothing items that can be mixed and matched for the maximum number of outfit options.

• Layer the heavier items at the bottom to keep your suitcase balanced. 

• Don’t fold your clothes. Rolling them saves space and also reduces wrinkles.

• Try some outfits on to see how they fit together if you have to make some tough decisions about what really needs to go with you.

• Multi-purpose clothing items like scarves that can double as a blanket or sarong are great.

• Always check the weather forecast of where you’re heading so you pack appropriately. Look into any activities you plan to do, and what people mostly wear over there. This help you make the right choices.

• Use every inch. Stuff socks and other small items into shoes.

• This is a huge one. I aways thought I should take a pair of shoes for every outfit. And shoes take up so much space. Rather limit yourself to only 2-3 pairs that can be worn with almost everything and that you feel comfortable wearing.

• Keep checking the weather forecast again and adjust your packing list if necessary.

• Double-check and go through your list one last time to ensure nothing is forgotten.

Final conclusion

Packing for a 2-week vacation doesn’t have to be stressful.

Starting to think about packing 3 weeks in advance is ideal, but physically packing more than 2 weeks before can lead to overpacking or forgetting what you’ve packed.

Remember, the key is to be prepared but also flexible and not freak out! Adventures are full of surprises, after all!