A small suitcase makes every item earn its place. My starting point for a packing plan is simple: comfortable clothes that work together, the essentials close at hand, and enough room to bring everything home without a struggle.
Plan outfits before counting pieces
Start with the activities on the itinerary rather than an arbitrary number of outfits. A walking day, a long journey and an evening meal may share the same trousers with a change of top. Lay everything out together and choose a small palette. If a piece only works with one other item, consider leaving it behind.
A practical starting list
For a short trip, consider three or four tops, two bottoms, one optional dress or smarter outfit, a light layer, sleepwear and enough underwear. Wear the bulkier shoes while travelling and pack one additional pair only if the itinerary needs it. This is a starting point, not a rule: weather, laundry access and personal needs decide the final list.
Keep essentials within reach
Put travel documents, medication, glasses, your phone charger and one change of clothes in a small personal bag. Keep toiletries together in a leak-resistant pouch and choose familiar products rather than experimenting away from home. Check your airline and departure airport requirements directly before packing liquids or batteries.
Leave breathing room
Packing cubes can group clothing, but they do not make an overweight bag lighter. Close the case, lift it and walk around with it before leaving. If it already feels awkward at home, remove something. The goal is a bag you can manage comfortably, not a perfectly filled suitcase.
I would rather repeat a comfortable outfit than spend a trip managing luggage. Save this list, adapt it to the journey, and keep a note of anything that comes home unused.