Traveling can be overwhelming: new environment, new surroundings, new experiences. Part of the new is not knowing what exactly you might need while on your trip. Packing efficiently to accommodate all possible fashion needs can be difficult, but here are some tips on how to pack efficiently and travel lightly:
1) Layers
Depending on the climate of your destination, this may differ in terms of how heavy each layer is. Even for a warm climate, layering is important because night time if almost always cooler than day time and might require a cardigan or shawl of some sort. One cardigan that matches several shirts is more efficient than packing several long-sleeve shirts on top of all the tank tops.
How to Pack Efficiently
2) Solid colors
Keeping to solid colors and simple patterns will ensure more things will go together. In terms of clothing and accessories, keeping to a color palate is the best way to maximize stylish options with minimum space.
3) Re-wear things
Choose items that can be worn multiple times and matched with several other pieces. That way, one shirt can be a part of three outfits, for instance. Items that are darker in color will hide any possible dirt that may get on them, making it easier to re-wear something because there won’t be signs of dirtiness.
4) Multi-purpose things
Similar to re-wearing things, picking items that have multiple purposes is essential for paring down the size of your suitcase. For example, a sarong makes not only a beach cover up, but a skirt to wear out in the evenings, a scarf for chillier nights, a light blanket for traveling, or anything else you can think of! It’s also great for situations where modesty is a must (e.g. visiting certain places of worship).
5) No more than two pairs of shoes
Shoes are tricky because some work with select few outfits or are only comfortable for certain things. The key is to pick two pairs that will accomplish everything you need. One for during the day adventures and one for evening or easy-going times is usually what works out best. A pair of sneakers and sandals (or boots if a cold climate) typically will cover all the bases.
6) Jewelry
While many will say that jewelry is not necessary to bring on travels, for some it is an integral part of an outfit. Picking a few pieces that match several outfits and are sturdy enough to travel with is totally fine. Tip for packing necklaces: string the chains through a drinking straw to prevent the chains from tangling.
7) Hats
Not only fashionable, but also protective, hats are wonderful items to keep your scalp from getting sunburned and add a little pizzazz to your outfit. However, hats are not the easiest to pack always. Choose one hat that will match with everything you plan to wear and wear it on the plane/train/bus/etc. to save room in your luggage.
8) Make-up basics
Stick to the very basics of your make-up routine for traveling. It can be tempting to bring the whole make-up case, but honestly it just is not worth it. Especially if you are traveling to a warm climate where you might be sweating, wearing a full face of make-up just would not be the best idea. Thus, resist the temptation and just pack the fundamentals.
Don’t forget that you can always buy things wherever you are going. Buying items that you forgot or simply would rather buy at your destination become two-in-one: necessity and souvenir! Packing can be extremely difficult and overwhelming, however, there are ways to be efficient about it. Hopefully these tips are helpful for how to pack efficiently for your next trip! There are certainly many ways to remain fashionable, while packing lightly.
