I just got back from a vacation, so this week I’m talking everything travel. I wanted to share the best packing tips for your next trip so you can travel light and only take what you really need. It’s easy to feel like you need to pack for the unexpected when you travel, but the reality is that the more you pack, the less you will probably use. No one cares that you wear the same jacket all week long, or that you’ve worn your jeans a couple of times. The goal is to pack items that you can mix and match together to maximize your travel wardrobe while minimizing the items you have to pack.
Don’t check a bag
My boyfriend claims that I always over pack, but the reality is that over the last 10 years, I haven’t checked a back once. I want all of my items with me and in my sight at all times, so traveling with only carry-on bags is crucial. And to top it off, you don’t have to wait for baggage claim, which means less time at the airport!
Never use a roller suitcase, only a duffle bag
A lot of people opt for roller bags because they’re easier to carry through the airport, but one of the best packing tips for your next trip is to switch to a duffle bag. Switching over to a duffle bag will change your life. Duffle bags typically can hold more stuff, but what makes them really life changing is that you will always be allowed to take them on the plane.
A few years ago I discovered that when flights are full, people carrying roller bags are often asked to gate check their bags. If the plane is full, the first couple groups of people get to board with no problem, and then the flight attendant comes over the loud speaker saying, “Anyone with roller bags must gate check them!” The people with duffle bags don’t have to do anything different, and continue to file into the plane, bags in hand, while those with roller suitcases are forces to say goodbye to their belongings as they get carted away to be stowed under the plane. This is because duffle bags are often able to fit under the seat and are more maneuverable than a roller bag.
This is my favorite duffle bag. I got it years ago, and the light weight and water resistant material makes it the perfect travel option.
Utilize your second carry-on item
Each person is allowed to carry on two items, and for most women, one of these items end up being your purse. If you need extra space, the best thing to do is grab a big tote bag. I use this bag for travel, and I love how it fits my laptop, camera, toiletries, and even a small purse! Put your purse inside the tote, along with any extra items that don’t fit in your duffle. Voila, two bags, no checked items, and plenty of space! By separating your electronics from the rest of your clothing and travel items, it can also make it easier to stay organized. Plus, two lighter bags are often easier to manage than one extremely heavy bag.
Research the weather
There’s nothing worse than packing clothes for the wrong weather. Obviously you can’t predict everything, but checking the five or 10 day forecast will definitely help you pack the right attire. Layers are always a safe bet if you’re unsure.
Pick a color scheme and stick with it
Part of packing light is having all of your items able to mix and match with one another. My closet mostly consists of black and white, so it isn’t hard for me, but if you’re someone who tends to wear a lot of color, make sure you pick a couple colors that work together and pack everything that will go with them. Ideally, every item you pack will be able to be styled together in one way or another. Packing a shirt or pair of pants that can only be worn with one other garment isn’t a smart move when packing. One of the best packing tips for your next trip is to make sure that all of your items are versatile. Stick with neutrals to ensure that everything goes together and can be worn on multiple occasions.
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When you’re packing for your next trip, it’s essential that everything you put in your bag has a purpose. If you’re just adding clothes to add them, chances are you won’t wear them. The best packing tips for your next trip are to research the weather, stick to carry-on bags, and make sure all of your clothing goes together.
Happy traveling!