How to Pack Light, According to a Flight Attendant

Suitcase in bedroom — Credit:
Alex Huang

Packing light sounds simple in theory: Just bring less stuff, right? In practice, however, it's a different story (one that might result in too many "just in case" options and overweight luggage). How do the experts—and we're talking flight attendants with their perfectly regulation-sized carry-ons, never a bulging zipper in sight or overloaded wheel in sight—do it?

For Olivia Holman, a flight attendant who understands the fine art of prepping a suitcase, it's all about packing honestly and strategically. Her approach focuses on everyday habits, smart organization, and understanding what you actually need. Before your next trip, consider these flight-attendant-approved strategies.

Utilize Organizational Tools

A lighter suitcase doesn't always begin with fewer items. It often starts with better organization. Holman says packing cubes are one of the simplest tools for reducing visual clutter and making the most of limited space.

"Packing cubes and clear storage are my number one recommendation," she says. "They keep everything organized, compress your clothes, and make it so much easier to see what you actually brought instead of digging through a suitcase."

Don't Pack for Your Fantasy Vacation Self

It's easy to envision an entirely different routine while traveling: dinners out every night, spontaneous adventures, or themed events. But unless those plans already exist on your itinerary, you probably don't need to prepare for them.

"People tend to pack for the version of themselves they imagine they'll be on vacation instead of who they actually are," Holman explains. "If you don't normally go out every night at home, you probably don't need three different 'just in case' party outfits." The more honest you are about your habits, the easier it'll be to edit.

(Double) Check the Weather

Many travelers pack for every possible forecast rather than the weather that's actually expected. "Always check the weather before you pack," Holman says. That unnecessary weatherproof coat and umbrella will likely become easier (and safer) to leave behind when you know you'll be met with sunny skies. "So much overpacking comes from bringing options for every possible scenario when the forecast already tells you what you'll realistically need."

Then, the night before or morning of your trip, check the forecast once more. "Forecasts can change, and that final check often gives me the confidence to remove a few unnecessary items," says Holman. You can even have those extra sweaters or rain boots folded and standing by at the ready for additional peace of mind and to avoid any pre-airport scramble.

Rethink Your Shoe Selection

Shoes are often one of the quickest ways luggage becomes heavy. “In most cases, two or three pairs are more than enough,” Holman says.

For Holman, this usually means:

One pair of tennis shoes
One pair of flats
One pair of heels

Of course, specific trips may require adjustments (a hiking vacation looks different from a beach getaway, obviously), but limit yourself to versatile options to prevent shoes from taking over your suitcase.

Know Your Priorities

If you're unsure whether something deserves valuable suitcase space, Holman has a quick way to gut check: “I always ask myself two questions: What am I actually planning to do, and what would bother me most if I had to buy it there?” she says.

After all, not everyone prioritizes the same things. The key is understanding your own habits and packing around them. “Personally, I love shopping, especially for vintage and secondhand clothes, so if I end up needing another outfit, that's actually part of the fun for me,” Holman explains. “But if I had to buy more toothpaste, meds, or skincare because I forgot them, I'd be irrationally upset.”

Remember: Packing less doesn't mean ditching the things that make travel easier for you. For Holman, it looks like bringing one or two fewer outfits but a collapsible tote as her "just in case" backup plan. "It packs down to almost nothing and is perfect if I shop during the trip or need an extra carry-on on the way home," she says.

This small exercise can instantly separate necessities from extras. “The less you pack, the easier your trip becomes,” Holman adds. “You spend less time dragging luggage around and more time actually enjoying where you are.”