The Packing Struggle is Real

The WRONG way to pack

 
My greatest struggle when preparing for a trip is “what should I pack?” Are you with me? I either pack too much, too little, clothes that aren’t appropriate for unplanned events, and the list goes on. For the most part, I do pretty well, but continue to fall short in at least one department.

The process begins at least two weeks in advance, especially if my destination is a different climate than what I’m currently experiencing. I rarely bring luggage that isn’t a carry-on (hardside on wheels), because I want to be sure it arrives with me and I’m anxious to get the party started when I land. This preference requires careful packing, so here is what I take.

Clothes

I start by choosing the same or similar wardrobe color scheme.

Leggings/Jeggings - They don’t wrinkle, go with everything, and take up little space in your luggage. I pack at least three pairs to mix and match with tops.

Longish polyester pullovers -  Pair well with leggings and don’t wrinkle.

White tees - Casual during the day and dressed up at night.

Cotton maxi dresses - I can’t live without them! They are comfy, effortless, and can be dressed up or down.

An ultra lightweight packable jacket.

Roll each item up to alleviate wrinkles and save space.

Shoes/Boots

Ballet flats

One pair of sturdy walking shoes

One pair of sandals (not always a necessity for me)

One pair of flip flops for shared bathrooms

I can’t live without one pair of boots or booties. I wear them on the plane so they don’t need to be packed.

Accessories

I’m very minimal with jewelry, because I don’t want to lose or keep track of it.

I tend to wear solid color clothing, so I bring at least two multi-colored, stacked bracelets for a little added “kick.”

Detachable collars - I like these for “dress up.”

Decorative scarves - They not only make or break an otherwise bland outfit, but give the same outfit a new look. Scarves can also be used as a shawl if it’s chilly at night.

Hats - I can’t live without them for sun protection and bad hair days. They are also great built-in umbrellas for rainy days.

Sunglasses - Two in case I lose or break a pair.

Glam and adorable, right?

Miscellaneous

Backpack - I use this to pack necessities for the plane ride.

Handbags - One largish messenger-style bag that lays flat in my suitcase, and one small cross-body swingpack to carry boarding essentials.

Pillowcases - One to sleep on (I like to know it’s scent-free and clean) and one for dirty clothes.

Electronics gadgets - Phone/camera charger, and travel adapters for international travel.

Snacks - I don’t eat any airline food unless I’m on an extended flight; therefore, I pack snacks like nutrition bars, trail mix, and Go Picnic.

Make-up - Only the basics including mascara, eyeliner, lip balm, concealer, and foundation/blush in mineral format (no liquids).

Toiletries - Sunscreen, lotion, face wipes (I like the Yes to brands), bar soap, hair essentials in 3 oz containers, and band-aids for unexpected boo-boos. I also try to acquire as many toiletry samples as I can whenever possible.

I like to think that practice makes perfect, and at some point, the struggle will no longer be real. Happy trails!

The perfect travel jacket