A new poll finds that Americans are more concerned about the road they have not taken in their lives. When it comes to regrets, people are more likely to dwell on things they didn’t do than on the things they have done.
That’s according to a survey of 2,000 U.S. adults split evenly by generation, which found that only 11% of Americans don’t have any regrets. Between not speaking up (40%), not visiting family or friends enough (36%), and not pursuing their dreams (35%), those missed opportunities add up.
In their lifetime, Americans average three missed chances to take a once-in-a-lifetime trip, four lost opportunities to ask their crush out on a date, and six instances of not having the perfect comeback in an argument. On the other hand, the top actions Americans regret doing include spending money or purchasing something they later regret (49%), fighting with friends or family (43%), and making an unnecessary comment (36%).
Over the years, Americans also regret an average of five angry text messages and two break-ups. In fact, nearly one-third (32%) of baby boomers have a regret that spans three decades and still crosses their minds an average of three times per month. While millennials’ oldest regret is only about 11 years old, they fret about it on average almost once per week, more than any other generation.
Conducted by Talker Research on behalf of Mucinex, results also revealed that Americans are almost twice as likely to make bad decisions at night (41%) than in the morning (22%). Moreover, Americans tend to regret something more at night (43%).
Nighttime decisions such as not going to bed at a decent time (47%), eating too many snacks or too much food (36%), and arguing with a loved one (35%) are the most likely to negatively impact Americans the next morning. For Gen Zers, failing to do their nighttime routine (29%) or forgetting to turn on their alarm (22%) will almost always ensure morning distress.
These poor choices not only cause regret but also put Americans in a bad mood (39%), leave them unable to tackle the day (29%), or even inhibit them from fulfilling the day’s responsibilities (20%).
So, what factors are contributing to these bad decisions? According to the results, being tired (40%), sick or desperate for relief (20%), or enduring a long night out (15%) are the most likely culprits.
“We don’t make the best decisions when we’re sick or tired, especially at night,” says Albert So, Marketing Director, Upper Respiratory at Reckitt, in a statement. “And while no one is going to get it right every single time, it’s important to have products you can rely on to help you make better decisions, so you don’t wake up with regrets.”
For all the bad decisions made and opportunities missed, 48% of Americans still agree with the common saying, “Never regret anything because, at one moment, it was exactly what you wanted.” This may be because almost two-thirds (64%) believe that their decision-making has gotten better as they’ve gotten older.
Results also revealed that some “bad” decisions don’t always result in feelings of regret. Staying up late with friends (24%), quitting a job (23%), taking a chance on a new food (20%), moving somewhere new (17%), and going to a concert on a weeknight (10%) are all choices many Americans consider to have been “worth it.”
“Few things are worse than starting your day regretting a choice you made the night before, especially when you’re suffering from cold and flu symptoms, and have a busy day ahead,” says Albert So. “Feeling better starts with getting a good night’s sleep and making smart decisions before bed so you wake up feeling ready to go with no regrets.”
Minimalism is more than a lifestyle trend — it’s a movement about living with more intention. Many who embrace minimalism say they feel more freedom, fewer distractions, a sense of control and security, and an overall richer life experience. A study from the Journal of Positive Psychology found that over 80% of research shows a strong connection between minimalism and increased happiness.
This idea naturally extends to travel. Instead of lugging multiple bags, minimalist travelers focus on the adventure itself. By adopting a minimalist mindset, you can save time, money, and stress. With 81% of travelers looking to avoid checked bag fees according to recent research, more people are packing lighter and embracing the benefits of traveling with just a backpack or carry-on. While this may seem daunting for those accustomed to overpacking, once you master efficient packing and smarter travel habits, you’ll never be weighed down by excess luggage again.
Why ditch the checked bag?
Checked baggage fees are higher than ever, with most airlines charging between $30 and $50 for the first checked bag on domestic flights and even more for international trips. Avoiding these fees means more money in your pocket for experiences like sightseeing, dining, or souvenirs. Plus, traveling with only a carry-on allows you to skip the long wait at baggage claim and reduces the risk of lost or delayed luggage. Also, you can decide to change a flight or hop on a bus, without the extra weight.
Carry-on or backpack?
When deciding between a carry-on suitcase or a backpack for your trip, it often comes down to personal preference and the type of travel you’re planning. A carry-on offers convenience with easy rolling and ample space, while a backpack provides mobility and hands-free movement, especially in places with uneven terrain or busy streets.
Here’s a breakdown of the pros to consider for each:
Carry-on suitcase
- Easy to roll on smooth surfaces
- Ample space for larger items
- Less strain on your back and shoulders
- Quick access to items when standing still
- Ideal for organized, short trips
Backpack
- Hands-free for better mobility
- More flexible in tight spaces
- Comfortable with padded straps
- Easier to navigate public transport
- Better for active or longer travel
Packing hacks to maximize your carry-on space
Whether you choose a rolling carry-on or a backpack, making the most of your space is essential. How can you maximize it while keeping everything organized and easy to access?
1. Use packing cubes
Once you start using packing cubes, your life will never be the same. They allow you to organize all your items and squeeze more into your bag. This method saves space and makes it easier to find what you need quickly without dumping everything out of your bag.
2. Roll your clothes
Rolling clothes instead of folding them is a well-known space-saving technique. This method compresses fabric, reducing wrinkles and creating more room in your bag. Rolled clothes can also be tucked into smaller spaces, such as corners or the sides of your carry-on.
3. Choose versatile clothing
Pack neutral, lightweight pieces that can be mixed and matched to create multiple outfits. A few key items, like a pair of pants that can be dressed up or down, will go a long way in cutting down how much clothing you need to pack. Aim for quick-drying, moisture-wicking fabrics that can be easily washed and dried during your trip.
4. Wear your bulkiest items
To save space, wear your heaviest or bulkiest items on travel days. Jackets, boots, and heavier layers take up a lot of room in your bag but are necessary for cooler climates. By wearing these items, you free up space in your carry-on for lighter, more flexible clothing.
5. Limit your shoes
Ladies, you probably don’t want to hear this, but shoes are one of the bulkiest items to pack, so aim to bring no more than two pairs—one for walking and a dressier option if needed.
6. Utilize all compartments
Take advantage of every nook and cranny in your carry-on. Small spaces are perfect for chargers, toiletries, and other small essentials. Tuck items like socks into shoes and use zippered pockets for accessories.
7. Opt for travel-sized toiletries
Instead of packing full-size toiletries, pour your liquids into travel-sized bottles. Solid toiletries, such as bar shampoo, conditioner, and soap, are TSA-friendly and take up far less space in your bag. If you’re traveling with someone, have one person bring the shampoo and other items that can be shared.
Essential packing list for any trip length
You don’t need a suitcase stuffed with clothes to look and feel great on vacation. Focus on versatile pieces when packing. Here’s a basic packing list that works for both short weekend trips and longer backpacking adventures:
Clothing
- 3-4 T-shirts or lightweight tops
- 1-2 long-sleeve shirts for layering
- 1 jacket or sweater (wear your heaviest one during travel)
- 2-3 pairs of pants or shorts
- 1 pair of comfortable walking shoes
- 1 pair of dressier shoes or sandals (optional)
- 5-7 pairs of socks and underwear
- Sleepwear
- Swimsuit (optional)
Toiletries
- Travel-sized shampoo, conditioner, and soap (or solid bars)
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Deodorant
- Razor
- Basic first aid kit (bandages, pain relievers, etc.)
Tech gear
- Smartphone and charger
- Portable power bank
- Universal adapter
- Kindle or e-reader (instead of carrying physical books)
Miscellaneous
- Packing cubes
- Reusable water bottle (Perhaps a collapsable one)
- Sunglasses
- Travel documents (passport, printed reservations, etc.)
- Lightweight daypack for daily excursions
Packing light doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort. A few well-chosen items can make all the difference on your journey. Start with a compact travel pillow to make sleeping easier on planes, trains, and buses. Pair it with noise-canceling headphones to block out distractions and create a peaceful bubble, wherever you are. Finally, stay connected no matter where your travels take you by using an international SIM card or eSIM, so you’re never far from loved ones or important updates.
The next time you plan a trip, think like a minimalist — less is more. With the right mindset and preparation, you can explore the world with nothing more than a carry-on or backpack and focus on what you’re seeing, instead of what you’re bringing. Safe travels!