That pair of wedges that always cause you to roll your ankle? Those lace-up pumps that rub uncomfortably against your skin? Leave them behind 100 percent of the time. We promise you’ll thank us when you’re schlepping through one city to get to another.

Are you trying to go over the carry-on limit? If the Kindle edition isn’t available and it doesn’t come in paperback, find another read and save the 700-page historical biography for when you’re back home.

If you’re feeling unsure in front of your bathroom mirror, there’s no way in hell you’re going to love that two-piece once you’re actually on the beach. Leave the offending number at home and pick out one that feels more figure-flattering.

Your favourite baby blues don’t dirty easily and can withstand staying unwashed for days so why pack more than two pieces for your holiday? Denim is heavy and packing lots of items with this material will just cause extra carry-on weight.

Hotels – and even some Airbnbs – provide shampoo, conditioner, bar soap, lotion, razors, mouthwash and more. Call or email ahead to double check what they offer then whittle your products to the essentials.

Most hotels will have hairdryers in-room so call ahead to confirm then leave yours at home. More and more hotels are letting you borrow complimentary flat irons, so be sure to ask about that, too.

Unless you’re traveling for business, you can probably make do with just a smartphone. But if you’re considering packing other devices — such as an iPad, tablet, laptop, or Kindle — limit yourself to two at most.

You might want to look like a fashion icon on your next trip, but don’t be tempted to pack your nicest gems. Traveling with valuables will make you a prime target for pickpockets, and you’ll run the risk of losing or leaving the smaller accessories behind.

Unless you’re going camping, don’t pack your own sheets and towels. Hotels, hostels, and vacation rentals nearly always provide them, and most of the time will replenish them daily too so save yourself the trouble.

Avoid packing for situations that are unlikely to happen. For example, you don’t need to pack rain gear if you’re visiting somewhere dry, or a winter coat if you’re going to the tropics. It’s also good to set realistic plans so that you don’t end up bringing unnecessary gear.

(Text by Holly Royce, bauersyndication.com.au / Additional reporting by Natalya Molok)