I wrote this post over a year ago in December 2019. AKA pre-COVID-19. I decided to publish it now with the vaccine rollout underway as we begin to fantasize about traveling for fun again and hopping on a plane to unseen lands. Let’s start dreaming and preparing for days ahead when we can plan itineraries, map out where to eat, what to see, and what to pack. Ah, I can hardly wait! Read on for my packing advice.
I hear persuasive voices when I start to pack.
Practicality whispers:
“Pack wrinkle-resistant, classic and versatile pieces.”
Fashion globe-trotter declares:
“The world is your runway! Put together your most radical, colorful, and stylish outfits for all to see. You are a star!”
You know what? It doesn’t have to be one or the other. The key is to be thoughtful and give yourself time to plan to avoid throwing a bunch of boring or impractical stuff into a case the night before a trip.
I’ve always loved the idea of traveling light but historically sabotaged my efforts by adding extra pieces in at the last minute (just in case!). It was not uncommon for my carry-on to include a pair of totally amazing but completely impractical pair of shoes and a sequin sweater. Sound familiar?
Good news, I’ve finally come up with some practical guidelines to make things easier for you, and me. We’ll work through this packing conundrum and get you ready for your upcoming trip with the following tips and tricks. Let’s start at the beginning.
Have you amassed an assortment of apparel and accessories to suit just about every mood? What happens when you have to narrow the inventory down to a mere suitcase? Opportunity. That’s what happens. Travel affords you the option to be thoughtful about styling. It is a chance to curate a collection of your favorite pieces and maybe leave some voids so you can pick up a few fashion souvenirs on the road. One of the highlights of taking a trip, besides the obvious sight-seeing, broadening your horizons and eating is shopping! So leave room in your case.
In general, bring clothes that are comfortable for walking around, exploring, going into museums and such but make sure your outfits are versatile enough that you don’t feel like a crumb bum if you stop at a decent restaurant for a meal after a day of wandering. Think about what your level of activity will be, the temperature and what kind of places you’ll be going. Packing for a week in Paris will be different than a week in Yellowstone but you still want to look cute and be comfortable. I do anyway.
Lets just start with the basics.
1.Plan and pack outfits. Do not toss random albeit reliable things that you love into a suitcase. Do the work ahead of time so you can enjoy the trip and not waste your time trying to figure out what to wear with what. Pick pieces that, for the most part, are interchangeable. Pack tops that can work with most of the bottoms you pack or a cardigan that works with the dress, skirt, jeans or slacks, yes I said slacks, that you pack.
2. Pack layers It’s always best to have layers that you can remove if you get overheated while walking around or if the indoor temperature is at odds with outside climate. Also, weather can simply be unpredictable. Think tank top, short sleeve, long sleeve, sweater. At least one of each and even if you’re going somewhere hot, bring a pair of pants and a sweater. Trust me.
3. Pack more tops than bottoms. You can completely change the look of an outfit if you switch up your top. Get more mileage out of your pants, skirts and shorts by choosing pieces that are versatile and can work with lots of different looks. For example. you can pack a lightweight blouse, a sweater and a t-shirt for one bottom and wear the tops on different days. I recommend black or white bottoms, a pair of jeans, a skirt or shorts and a patterned or colorful piece like a midi skirt. Also, a comfortable pair of leggings to layer under a dress. My leggings are a lifesaver when I get up and out early and it’s chilly. I can easily remove them and toss them in my bag if it warms up. This is not to say you shouldn’t pack dresses or jumpsuits. In fact dresses are a travel staple particularly in spring and summer. They are easy to throw on and go. In short – more tops than bottoms. Remember that.
4. Accessorize! Scarves, jewelry, hair stuff, nail polish, socks, belts, and sunglasses. These things take up minimal room in your bags but have big impact or your lewks. Think black pants with solid top. OK, now add a necklace, paint your nails, throw on a head band and a belt and you’ve created a totally different vibe. You can also carry accessories in your day bag. From hiking around town you can easily glam up a little for a glass of wine and dinner after a long day of walking.
5. If you are a walker, like me, you must have comfortable shoes. Obviously, they have to be cute too. Whether they are sneakers, sandals or boots – if you are hiking or sightseeing all day, you don’t want to be slowed down by blisters. Don’t pack brand new shoes and make sure the shoes you pack actually work with the outfits you’ve picked. Are you bringing trousers or skinny pants? Do tall boots work with you pants or would a pair of ankle boots be a better choice (assuming you are only packing one pair!) Do white sneakers look great with everything in your case? Nice! But still throw in something a little less casual like a nice pair of sandals or flats for unplanned events. Remember, comfort is key.
6. Consider a day bag. Dare I say backpack? If you are a small purse person and only like to have essential with you, that’s dandy. However, when you’re trekking around all day without a pit stop at your AirB&B having a small tote or something available for a water bottle snacks, maps or guide books will be helpful and make you feel more organized. Also, if the kids are with you it’s a non-starter. You need an extra bag.
7. Bring a water resistant layer. If you are going to a mild or moderate climate I really recommend a rain slicker or poncho with a hood. I know a poncho seems random but not only can it look chic, it layers over everything and rolls up nicely for packing (into a day pack). A hood is by far more convenient than carrying an umbrella. It if starts pouring, head to a cafe or a museum and enjoy.
8. ROLL YOUR CLOTHING. This is so helpful. My mom taught me this trick. Not only does it make it easier to fit things into your case, your clothes don’t get creased or wrinkled. It’s a secret everyone should know.
9. Fill your shoes /boots with small items like socks, underwear, accessories etc. Nothing hollow should be going in your case but you don’t have to over stuff. Leave a little space for trinkets you want to bring home.
10. Pack Travel size toiletries. If you run out, enjoy buying necessities at a local pharmacy which is particularly fun to do overseas. I also like to stop by a department store pre-trip to get a sample size of my favorite perfume. That way I have enough for the trip without carrying a whole bottle.
There you have it. Of course what you pack is affected by the length, temperature and nature of your trip. Are these helpful tips or, things you already know? Do you have helpful ideas for packing efficiently? Please share. Happy packing and traveling (when the time comes…). Soon friends – I can feel it.
FIONA FINDS 