It is best to have two pairs of bottoms (pants, shorts, or skirts) for each week that you'll be staying. Plan on bringing four shirts per week, and two jackets to layer for warmth (if you're traveling to a cool or cold destination). For a two-week trip, you need four bottoms and eight tops.

For a 2-week trip in 2026, the "Golden Rule" of packing is to pack for one week and plan for laundry. A standard "capsule" wardrobe for 14 days should include 5 to 7 tops, 3 pairs of bottoms (pants/skirts), 2 "dressy" outfits, and 1 light jacket. You should pack 14 pairs of underwear and socks, as these are small and difficult to re-wear without washing. In 2026, many travelers use the "5-4-3-2-1" method: 5 sets of socks/underwear, 4 tops, 3 bottoms, 2 pairs of shoes, and 1 accessory set. If you choose fabrics like merino wool or technical synthetics, you can wear items multiple times without odors, significantly reducing bulk. Packing more than 10 full outfits usually results in "overpacking stress" and heavy luggage fees. In 2026, most high-end hotels and even budget hostels offer "wash-and-fold" services, and finding a local laundromat is often a great way to experience a city like a local while keeping your suitcase light and manageable.