Packing like a pro- how to

Above is a 65 L backpack from REI (originally comes with a daypack which I didn't bring) and a regular size backpack.
Packing was a bit stressful because I needed some specific space-taking items for my study abroad component and some separate items my backpacking component of my trip.

As far as packing goes, I packed an average sized towel, a face towel, travel size- toiletries, 12 tops -including tees/ v-necks/ 2 blouses and a few knits,  10 bottoms - 3 pairs of leggings, 1 pair of chinos, 1 pair black skinny jeggings, 1 black hi-low maxi skirt, 3 pairs nike shorts, 1 pair khaki shorts. (I took an extra amount of bottoms because of the daily variance in temperatures), 1 mini cream colored lace dress, a swimsuit,  six pairs of socks including two pair of long socks for sleeping in cold weather or hiking , and undergarments to last me for two weeks. I packed a pair of chacos, black flats, running shoes and hiking boots. I wore my hiking boots, chinos, a tee and light-weight omni heat Columbia jacket on the plane because those took up the most space in my backpack. Along with this, I managed to fit necessary medications, a compact sized wireless modem, a flat linen sheet, and other accessories such as makeup ESSENTIALS, a travel sized first aid kit and a small sewing kit. Another essential to travel with is feminine products because of the lack of choice or type in certain areas. Oh, I also managed to squeeze in my stuffed bunny which is always comforting and home-like. I'm planning on purchasing a sleeping bag here to limit where I need to carry it. Ideally, I would squeeze it in my 65L and over-fill my other backpack to limit what I need to carry. I used the roll style of folding for my clothing and bundles for my underwear and socks. Don't forget to put small items like socks in your shoes to save space and keep the shoe shape! I'll post pictures later of when I'm repacking to give people an idea of how I packed so much in my backpack. My 65L came out to be 22 lbs and I could fit more if I tried.

Looking back, I would have packed more tees and maybe one less pair of nike shorts and no jeggings, I also would not have brought the wireless modem (partly because it's taking a while to start using and will only be beneficial to me during study abroad). Other than that, I think I did well because I wanted to maintain a balance between backpacking and carrying enough variety to please my personal preferences for seven weeks (well, nine including backpacking).

For future backpacking trips, I'm sure I'll be able to travel with even less considering some specific things I needed to/ was suggested to bring for this trip.

Carrying these backpacks (smaller backpack in front) is much easier to me than carrying a suitcase. It's comfortable once on and it's easy to walk with as well. My hands are free for showing passports/ IDs/ boarding passes/ train tickets and my luggage is always on me which is nice because the risk of losing it or having it stolen is reduced greatly.

Don't forget your luggage locks!

Enjoy and safe travels,

Komal