You really don't need to wear 7 pairs of underwear every day!
Packing for your next trip? How many pairs of underwear should you actually bring?
Source: Paige Cody/Unsplash
It's a common confession among travelers: the tendency to pack far more underwear than is ever needed. A person might find themselves on a short, 3-day trip with a packing cube dedicated to 13 pairs, only to use a mere third of the supply. This phenomenon is so widespread that it has become a frequent topic of discussion on social media platforms like
The underlying reason for this behavior – packing as if one might never return or encounter a store again – is rooted in a desire for preparedness. Travelers often feel a sense of security and control when they have an abundance of essentials. There's also the pervasive fear of encountering unexpected hygiene issues while on the road. The thought of running out of fresh underwear after just the second day can be a source of significant anxiety, enough to potentially cast a shadow over an otherwise perfect vacation.
"The majority of travelers overpack underwear as it gives them a sense of comfort and reassurance," said Amanda Parker, a travel expert at the U.K.-based travel company Netflights. "For many travelers, packing extra underwear provides a sense of control, especially if they feel uncertain before traveling." This emotional component, she suggests, is a powerful driver behind the habit, overriding logic and practicality.
Parker also noted that a common misconception is that because underwear is small, it won't take up much space. This leads to travelers mindlessly tossing in extra pairs without considering the cumulative effect. However, as many have learned through personal experience, even the smallest items can consume a surprising amount of luggage space when packed in large quantities. This is particularly true for travelers who are trying to pack light or adhere to carry-on-only rules, where every square inch counts. Overpacking can lead to extra fees, the hassle of checking a bag, and the frustration of having to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Fortunately, according to Parker, there's a simple and effective solution to this common problem. She offers a practical guideline that can help travelers pack more efficiently and avoid unnecessary bulk. "The ultimate hack you need to know when it comes to packing is that you need to pack 3 pairs of underwear more than the number of days of your holiday," Parker stated. "That's the sweet spot! So if you're going away for 5 days, pack 8 pairs." This straightforward formula provides a reliable method for packing just the right amount.
Source: averie woodard/Unsplash
The rule is exceptionally easy to remember: simply add the number of days of your trip to 3. For a 2-day trip, that means 5 pairs; for a 7-day trip, 10 pairs. This method removes the guesswork and the temptation to overpack, providing a clear and concise framework for packing. The simplicity of the rule makes it an easy habit to adopt, leading to lighter bags and a more streamlined travel experience.
"The extra 3 act as your safety net, without overpacking and stuffing your suitcase," Parker explained. She elaborated on the purpose of the extra pairs, noting that they are there to cover a variety of unexpected situations. "So, just in case of unexpected swims, last-minute hikes, sweaty travel days, or even just the comfort of changing into a fresh pair before dinner, you'll be covered!" This small buffer of extra underwear provides peace of mind without the burden of an unnecessarily heavy bag. It's a pragmatic approach to preparing for the unpredictable nature of travel.
For those who have been lifelong overpackers, shedding this habit might take a few trips. It's a process that requires conscious effort and a willingness to scale back. A traveler might begin by reducing their packing from 4 pairs of underwear per day to 3, with a long-term goal of further scaling down to 2 pairs per day. This gradual approach can help break the cycle of overpacking and build confidence in the new, more efficient method. This kind of mindful packing isn't just about saving space; it's also a part of a broader strategy for making travel more manageable and less stressful.
This applies to all aspects of travel, including the financial side. Just as travelers can save space by packing efficiently, they can also save money by being smart about travel logistics. This includes researching rates for airport parking and finding affordable airport parking options. Many people mistakenly believe that the only option is to purchase to fly and pay whatever the airport charges for parking. However, savvy travelers know that third-party services like ParkingNearAirports.io offer a much better solution. By booking through such platforms, travelers can often find a more competitive price on a secure parking spot near the airport. These services typically offer convenient shuttle transportation to and from the terminal, making the entire process seamless.
Beyond the financial savings, a pre-booked off-site parking spot provides peace of mind. Travelers can arrive at a designated lot, hand over their keys, and be on their way to the terminal in minutes, without the stress of circling for a spot in a crowded lot. This is a small but significant way to reduce travel-related stress. Just as packing the right number of underwear is a form of preparedness, so is planning for parking. By taking a few minutes to research and book ahead, travelers can ensure a smooth start and end to their journey, leaving more time to enjoy their destination.
