'I've travelled to 90 countries - 10 things you should never pack'

The tips are ideal for people who overpack (stock photo) (Image: Getty)

When you're packing for a trip, it's often tempting to overpack. You start by adding a few extra items 'just in case'; before you know it, your suitcase won't close. One travel lover who thinks she's cracked the code after travelling to over 90 countries has shared a list of items she thinks people should leave at home.

Posting on TikTok as @readyjetroam, Lisa told her followers: "Stop overpacking! After travelling to over 90 countries, I can confidently say there are 10 items you NEVER need in your suitcase."

She added: "I've learned the hard way what never needs to go in my suitcase — no matter where I’m headed." Lisa then shared her list of ten items, suggesting they're all things you can "confidently leave at home."

According to Lisa, one common mistake is packing too many shoes. She reckons you'll never need more than three pairs. "One for walking, one for beach or pool, one that dresses up. The end."

She also recommended leaving your beach towel at home. "It takes up half your bag and dries slower than a travel day hangover. Most places provide towels or you can get one cheap locally," she reasoned.

For similar reasoning, the frequent traveller doesn't like 'just in case' items. "If you’re packing something for a situation you made up in your head, don’t. You can buy almost anything you actually end up needing," she said.

Next, Lisa advised against packing a hair dryer or full-size toiletries. She also said you shouldn't take any jewellery that you'd be sad to lose, sharing: "Leave the heirlooms at home. I travel with one pair of earrings and a cheap bracelet. Zero stress."

Sharing tips for fashion lovers, Lisa said multiple handbags aren't necessary. She reasoned: "One good crossbody or anti-theft bag does the job. No outfit matching needed."

Talking of outfits, she doesn't think you need a new look for every day. "Pick a simple colour palette. Mix and match. Nobody’s judging — and even if they are, you won’t see them again."

In Lisa's opinion, you shouldn't travel with a stack of cash. "Use an ATM when you arrive. Better rates, safer, easier," she thought.

She's also against packing "too many gadgets and charges." The travel fan said: "You only need one universal adapter, and probably just your phone and maybe a Kindle. Don’t bring the whole Apple Store."

While viewers agreed with many of Lisa's points, there were some that commenters debated. For example, someone said: "I agree with most but the cash stack.. most countries cut a huge amount of money from your bank when you try to withdraw with a foreign card."

A second viewer echoed: "Disagree about cash. Strongly disagree. Take as much cash as you can. Just don't keep all in one pocket, of course." Someone else said: "I definitely need a hairdryer. Hotel ones are garbage!"