Are You an Overpacker?

Join the Club

It’s the big dilemma, I’m packing for Paris, but what to pack? As I flip through my closet, I try on nearly every piece of clothing, editing my list for our quick two-week trip to Paris. It felt like rediscovering old favourites alongside a few newer pieces — a process I actually enjoy, even if it occasionally drifts into an imagined version of my life. Ohhh… should I pack my sparkly jacket?

While I own plenty of dressy items, the reality of Paris is long days on foot, changing weather, and the need to stay warm — especially in winter. When I packed for a year abroad, I somehow managed with two large suitcases and a carry-on. Now, for just two weeks, I don’t seem to be having any trouble filling one large suitcase. Interesting.

If I’m honest, I’ll likely wear the same core pieces on repeat — styled slightly differently each day, maybe with a sweater or a fresh white t-shirt. And I’m perfectly fine with that. It’s practical, yes, and that’s why I need to include some fun pieces too. So how many? It’s also a mood thing, today I may want to wear jeans, or tomorrow, a skirt with a cute lil pair of sneakers. I want to look stylish but not over-the-top. I also want to be comfortable.

Welcome to the Overpacker’s Club

I’ve travelled overnight, for weekends, for weeks, and most recently for a full year. I’m organized and methodical when it comes to choosing clothes… until the what-ifs creep in.

• What if there’s a special fancy dinner?
• What if there’s a moment?
• What if, suddenly, I’m living some alternate sparkly life?

Dressing up is fun. And honestly, any excuse to throw on something slinky and heels feels downright glamorous.

The Roots of Overpacking

I have friends—you know who you are—who can travel for weeks, even months, with carry-on luggage only. These people deserve a round of applause. Truly. It’s an impressive life skill.

Sadly, I did not inherit that particular DNA trait.

Lately, there haven’t been many occasions that call for dressing up. Everyone seems to be dressing down instead, and somehow, “dress” jeans have become the new staple. Sure, there are the holidays and girls’ nights out, but it never feels like enough. So now, some of my more coveted purchases hang patiently in my closet, quietly begging to be worn.

Visiting Paris—where anything goes—feels like an excuse to finally wear those items. Truth be known, I’m not Emily in Paris (nor do I want to be), wearing high fashion, but a little something special goes a long way.

My Paris Packing Edit

I’ll admit, putting together a visual packing edit was unexpectedly fun—and a little revealing. Laying everything out made me realize how often I reach for the same silhouettes, the same neutrals, and apparently… a lot of black. I also learned that I don’t need quite as much as I think I do. Nah…Just kidding!

Now, I’m no style influencer—far from it—but if you’re curious, here’s what I’m actually packing (minus a few this and that items), for two weeks in Paris:

• Core pieces: neutral tops (black seems to be my favourite), a few sweaters in various colours for interest, versatile bottoms (a couple of pairs of jeans, cords, and dress pants), and a black blazer. I can remix each day.
• Dressy pieces: a slip dress, heels (ankle booties), and that jacket that always makes me feel a little sparkly.
• Outerwear & essentials: a warm coat, a raincoat, a scarf, comfortable walking shoes, and a trusty umbrella (because Paris weather has a mind of its own).
• Extras that feel fun: sparkly jewelry, an evening handbag, lip gloss, and those little extras that don’t take up much space but make an outfit feel finished.

Technically, I could wear everything in this suitcase in multiple combinations. And yes, there’s still a little joy in imagining all the what-ifs while I pack—but this edit keeps it mostly manageable.

Is there more to this?

Maybe overpacking isn’t about the clothes at all. Maybe it’s about wanting to be ready for anything—for fun, for adventure, for a version of yourself that only comes alive when you travel. And perhaps, that’s not such a bad thing.

And if you’re packing a suitcase right now, don’t be afraid to pack the bigger one. If it gives you options, for those what ifs, then what the heck—bring it. And if you forget something important? Guess what—you’re in Paris. You’ll be just fine. You’re standing in one of the shopping capitals of the world. I think you’ll manage beautifully. Not in Paris? You’d be amazed at what you can find in a pinch.

And, in case you were wondering—the sparkly jacket made the edit 😉