There are eight things I have learned to never leave on a trip without. Ever.

Granted, this is coming from a girl who’s the textbook definition of “overpacker.” My friend told me the night before my return to France last week that he “can’t have a conversation with someone who has to pack two pairs of flats for a six-day trip.” I had actually packed three. And a pair of heels.

My little habit has caused some issues: There was a rather feisty encounter in Brussels with one of Ryanair’s agents after avoiding the airline’s luggage scales like a guilty dieter for four weeks.

And when I caught myself at the gym doing shoulder presses with two heavy, 6-kg. (13.2 lb.) weights, reasoning they would help me lift my Kipling duffel into the overhead compartment, I finally had to admit I had a problem.

So as much as I hate packing light, I’m doing an experiment this week: Absolutely everything I need for my six-day holiday to Serbia and Bucharest, hiking gear and going-out clothes included, I packed in a regular Jansport backpack.

I might have given up a pair of jeans, my favorite sweater and shampoo (If it comes down to it, leave behind basic toiletries – they’re cheap and easy to buy as soon as you get to your destination) in the process, but after a lot of folding, squishing and swearing, I managed it.

Nevertheless, there are some things I just won’t leave home without:

**1. Ziplocs:**

My secret weapon. Roll, don’t fold, your clothes into sandwich- or quart-size Ziplocs, then sit on them to squish all the air out. It will save you at least half the room in your suitcase. They’re also good for when you want to buy out half a Parisian patisserie but simply can’t eat everything at once. Bring extra if going abroad, since they’re difficult to find and are extremely packable. Provided you wash them out once in a while, they’re also reusable.

**2. iPhone or iPod Touch:**

I’ve saved both euros and space by downloading maps, language guides, currency converters and even travel guides to this lovely, flat, packable device.

**3. Healthy snacks:**

I loaded up on Special K meal bars (10 grams of protein!) before leaving the States. They come in handy when you’re 1) hungry and have overdone it on buttery Parisian carbs or 2) hungry and hate asking for food from a host. Also a life-saver: Crystal Light protein mix-in. It disguises the taste of dodgy city water (Naples) and keeps you full longer.

**4. Dry shampoo:**

It doesn’t matter if you’re male or female – this will be a lifesaver. It will get you an extra day (or two) when the hostel’s hot water runs out or you’re feeling gross after a showerless sleeper train. Ironically, it’s also great to dirty up clean hair a bit before styling – it’ll make it hold better during a long night out.

**5. Lacy underwear:**

Ladies, leave the cotton bikinis at home. Reasoning? First, if it’s small, it takes up less room in your suitcase. Second (and most importantly), it’s practically dry the minute it comes out of the washer. It’s an easy way to save money at Laundromats and free up space in the dryer for your cotton garments.

**6. Bungee cord:**

If you have a nylon duffel, this will be your best friend when it comes to bag checks at low-budget airlines (Ryanair). Cinching one around the middle of your bag’s soft sides has the same visual effect a skinny belt has around a woman’s waist.

**7. Febreeze:**

Air pollution, lack of Laundromats and Polish trains can all cause clothes to lose that “fresh laundry” smell, but Febreeze makes for a quick fix. A little spritz or two is also an excellent pick-me-up after a long flight or train ride. Load up in the States where it comes in the TSA-approved size.

**8. Back-up pearl earrings:**

When tragedy strikes (and it will), a girl’s got to be prepared.