We all have that one travel habit (or several) we just can’t seem to shake.
No matter how much we try to be more laid-back, organized, or adventurous, some things stick like glue to our carry-ons.
So, let’s talk about it.
Here are some of the most surprisingly hard-to-break travel habits, and—spoiler alert—I’m guilty of a few too.
But don’t worry, I’ve got some helpful tips to help you (and me) along the way.
Let’s dive in!
1. Overpacking (AKA “But What If I Need It?”)
We’ve all been there. You start with a “minimalist” mindset, but suddenly you’re wondering if you might need three pairs of shoes for a weekend getaway.
And of course, you throw in that extra sweater “just in case.”
Overpacking is one of those habits that’s tough to kick because, well, we like to be prepared!
But honestly, how often do you really end up using that third sweater?
Tip: Stick to the 3-1-1 rule: 3 tops, 1 pair of pants, and 1 jacket (adapt as needed). Trust me, no one’s judging if you re-wear outfits. Plus, it leaves room for souvenirs!
2. Hoarding Travel Snacks Like You’re Preparing for a Famine
I get it—airplane food is unpredictable at best.
But do you really need five protein bars, two bags of nuts, and enough granola to survive a week in the wilderness?
Probably not.
Yet, here we are, stuffing snacks in every available pocket like we’re about to hike the Appalachian Trail.
Tip: Grab a couple of your favorites and call it a day. Worst case, you’ll discover some delicious local treats at your destination. Win-win!
3. Booking Every Minute of Every Day
There’s nothing like the satisfaction of a fully planned itinerary.
But let’s be real—it’s exhausting.
Cramming every second with activities leaves zero time for relaxation (and we need at least one lazy beach day, right?).
Plus, over-scheduling can turn your dream vacation into an Olympic sprint.
Tip: Aim for one or two planned activities per day and leave the rest open for spontaneous adventures. Trust me, those unplanned moments often turn into the best memories!
4. Trying to Do Too Much in One Trip
Raise your hand if you’ve tried to squeeze four cities into a one-week vacation. 🙋♀️
We love to think we’re being efficient, but this “do-it-all” mentality leads to burnout.
You’ll end up spending more time traveling between destinations than actually enjoying them.
Tip: Focus on quality over quantity. Pick fewer places and give yourself time to truly experience each one. You’ll thank yourself later.
5. Checking Your Email (Or Slack… Or Whatever)
It’s called a vacation for a reason, yet somehow, work sneaks its way into our suitcases.
Even on a remote beach, that little voice nags you to “just check your email real quick.”
Before you know it, you’re knee-deep in work mode, and the whole “relaxation” thing flies out the window.
Tip: Set clear boundaries before you leave. Turn off notifications, set an out-of-office reply, and leave work behind. Your inbox will survive without you.
6. Keeping All Your Valuables in One Place
We’ve heard it a million times—don’t keep all your valuables in one spot.
Yet, there we are, throwing our passport, wallet, and phone into the same bag and praying we don’t leave it on the train.
The habit is hard to break because, let’s face it, we love convenience.
But losing that bag? Absolute nightmare.
Tip: Spread the love! Keep some cash in your shoe (or somewhere sneaky) and your passport in a different pocket. That way, even if you lose something, you’re not totally stranded.
7. Living by Google Maps
Let’s be honest: when’s the last time you navigated a city without Google Maps?
We’re all glued to our phones, following that blue dot from place to place. Sure, it’s practical, but where’s the adventure in that?
Tip: Try putting your phone away and getting a little lost (just not too lost). Wander the streets, ask locals for directions, and see where the day takes you. You might discover a hidden gem that Google never told you about.
8. Forgetting to Learn Basic Phrases
I know, learning languages can be intimidating.
But we’ve all felt the awkwardness of landing in a foreign country and realizing we don’t even know how to say “hello” or “thank you.”
It’s easy to rely on English or Google Translate, but taking the time to learn a few basics can go a long way.
Tip: Before your trip, learn the essentials: “hello,” “thank you,” and “where’s the bathroom?” It’s a small effort that shows respect, and locals will appreciate it.
9. Thinking You Can Outsmart Jet Lag
We like to think we’re invincible, but jet lag always wins.
No matter how many “hacks” you try, it’s tough to trick your body into adjusting instantly.
Whether it’s downing five cups of coffee or forcing yourself to stay awake, jet lag has a way of catching up with you.
Tip: Give yourself a break! Ease into the time zone by taking short naps, staying hydrated, and getting outside in the sunlight. Your body will adjust—eventually.
10. Leaving Everything Until the Last Minute
“Eh, I’ll pack later.”
Famous last words.
We procrastinators know the drill: we wait until the eleventh hour to pack, book activities, or even print boarding passes.
It’s stressful, and yet, we do it every time.
Tip: Set a “fake” deadline for yourself. Pretend you’re leaving a day earlier than you actually are. You’ll be amazed at how much smoother everything goes when you’re not rushing to the airport in a panic.
So, What’s the Takeaway?
Old travel habits die hard. But with a little self-awareness (and some solid tips), it’s totally possible to shake things up and create a smoother, more enjoyable travel experience.
Whether it’s lightening your load or finally resisting the urge to over-plan, breaking these habits can help you stress less and have more fun on your adventures. After all, isn’t that the whole point of traveling?
Now, what travel habits are you guilty of? Don’t worry—we’re all in this together. Safe travels!