There are two types of people in this world. People who pack light and people who bring their whole wardrobe for a weekend trip. My mother happens to be the latter. She has been my current challenge on how to create a light packer. I have not been successful, but I'm hopeful with the tips below I can help you.
Choose a bag with compartments
This is the first step in your process of overcoming heavy packing. Go out and buy a new travel bag. Treat YO self. I have found that it allows you to organize much easier when there are places for your things. Now if you are a duffle bag person, which I know I am, there are amazing organizers out there that you can still keep everything neat.
Choose a theme
I have the most fun with this step. It's an easy way to keep yourself in check when you find the need to want to bring everything. If it doesn't fit into your theme, leave it at home. For example; an easy theme to get the point across is "Summer Whites". If this were my theme I would focus on linen pants/shirts, lace tops, subtle stripe knit tops/tanks, gauze coverups, white jean shorts, open weave sweaters for an added layer, etc. When picking a color theme, you want to make sure you have texture in the assortment (now I sound like a merchandiser) for it's easy to get extremely flat and your outfits lack interest.
Choose 3 pairs of shoes
This could be the hardest step. There are always reasons to bring more footwear, but I have found that if you can narrow it down to 3 pairs you typically do not need anything more. Whether you are going to a beach or a city follow these simple rules when choosing footwear; #1 COMFORTABLE SHOE. Whether it be a sneaker or a leisure sneaker. #2 FLAT. Whether it be a sandal, flip flop, boot or ballet flat. #3 HEEL. Depending on who you are this could mean a hooker heel or a kitten heel. I would choose a heel or a shoe that you could wear day to night. More versatile. Obviously neutrals are important for all 3 pairs of footwear, so they can go with everything.
Choose 1 beauty device
Typically there are hair dryers wherever you go, but if your hair dryer is the most important thing in your beauty routine then by all means bring it. If your straightener is the most important, then bring that. You get the point.
Buy travel size
It has become easier and easier to find the products that you use at home in travel size. If by chance you can not find your product in said size, then buying the travel containers is a good move.
HAPPY PACKING!