There’s nothing worse than packing (except maybe unpacking). I’ve unpacked and packed a lot of bags in my life. As I prepare to pack up my life to go abroad for two months, I decided to share a few things not to do while packing. Doing these things will only prolong the stress that comes with packing.

1. Procrastinate

As I write this, my suitcase is sitting on my floor collecting dust as I come up with every possible excuse to not start packing. My advice for you, and for myself, is to get up, open your suitcase, and put on some music, and then it won’t be too bad.

2. Pack your closet

I am guilty of this. Sometimes, I think packing everything I own makes it less stressful when I go somewhere because there is no way I can forget something. False. Packing everything makes it even more stressful when picking out outfits and unpacking your stuff.

3. Pack more shoes than days of the week

Pack only the shoes you know you will wear. Realistically, you won’t wear a different pair of shoes each day.

4. Don’t check the weather

Don’t go anywhere without knowing the climate. It could be really hot during the day, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t get cool at night.

5. Start packing in the middle of a Netflix binge

Taking 30-minute breaks while packing to watch your new Netflix binge will only backfire (I can attest to this).

6. Pack on an empty stomach

If you’re hungry, eat and then start packing. You’ll have more energy and less of a reason to stop in the middle of packing. Your snack break may turn into you using your “food coma” as an excuse to give up packing for the day.

7. Pack it “just in case”

There are some items that aren’t necessary to take on a trip, even if it is a long one. If you’re having second thoughts on if you’ll wear it or even use it at all, don’t pack it.

8. Don’t make a list

Not making a packing list makes it even more stressful. Even if you’re not a fan of lists, making one really helps.

9. Pack before you fully unpack

If you haven’t fully unpacked your suitcase from moving out of college or another trip, do this before you start preparing for your next trip. This way you can do laundry if you need to, and you’ll know what you have and what you may need to buy.

10. Don’t pack it because someone else will have it

Don't be that person who solely relies on others to brush their teeth. Just because someone else may have toothpaste, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t pack your own.