When packing for a trip, it can be difficult to know how many socks, shorts, dresses and accessories to bring.
Some people overpack, opting to be prepared for the worst and feeling more secure having various outfit options.
But the most common item holidaymakers always admit to packing too much of is underwear.
There was even recently a post on X, formerly Twitter, that went viral, joking about this common occurrence.
It read: ‘Looking at the amount of clean underwear I still have left in my suitcase and feeling proud that I didn’t p**s myself every day on vacation like I guess I had planned to when I packed.’
The post received over 157,000 likes, proving just how relatable this sentiment is.
And now a travel expert has revealed the surprising reason why so many people pack too many pairs of knickers.
Amanda Parker, from flight booking company Netflights, says: ‘The majority of travellers overpack underwear as it gives them a sense of comfort and reassurance.
When packing for a trip, it can be difficult to know how many socks, shorts, dresses and accessories to bring – but the most common item holidaymakers always admit to packing too much of is underwear
There was even recently a post on X, formerly Twitter , that went viral, joking about this common occurence
‘For many travellers, packing extra underwear provides a sense of control, especially if they feel uncertain before travelling.’
‘Hygiene is also a big factor in overpacking underwear,’ Amanda adds.
‘Holidays are a time to relax, so jetsetters want to avoid doing their laundry when away from home; so, knowing you have enough pairs of underwear and being clean throughout the holiday encourages overpacking.’
According to Amanda, some travellers are just so cautious of having to purchase additional clothes when on holiday.
‘It’s easy to buy toothpaste or shower gel from the shop on holiday, but, understandably, jetsetters would rather not go underwear shopping when abroad; so, you have the overpacking,’ she explains.
‘It can give you a sense of security; but, the issue many face is that they don’t know where to draw the line.’
Amanda continues: ‘Luggage psychology also comes into play, it’s common for travellers to overpack smaller items as they don’t take up much room in your case.
‘So, we throw in a couple more pairs of underwear, and the rest!’
A travel expert has revealed the surprising reason why so many people pack too many pairs of knickers. Amanda Parker, from flight booking company Netflights, says: ‘The majority of travellers overpack underwear as it gives them a sense of comfort and reassurance’
The expert went on to reveal exactly how many underwear is the ideal amount to pack.
‘The ultimate hack you need to know when it comes to packing is that you need to pack three pairs of underwear more than the number of days of your holiday. That’s the sweet spot!
‘So if you’re going away for five days, pack eight pairs.
‘The extra three act as your safety net, without overpacking and stuffing your suitcase.’
