Five tips to make packing light a breeze. Carry on those bags for easy mobility & skip the baggage fees and lost luggage drama!
I decided to take some extra time while on the East Coast for the NAPO (Nat’l Assn. of Professional Organizers) Annual Conference this week. I am traveling for 10 days, will be visiting 4 major metropolitin areas; using plane, train, car and even bus transportation; and will be staying in 5 places. Traveling light is critical for this type of journey. I wanted to be able to move around easily with one roller bag and a chic back pack, not to mention the advantage of being able to carry on my baggage for the cross-country flight. A decision I am thinkful for now, since I ended up getting stuck for 10 hours at LAX Airport. ugh!
I’m an organizer, so this challenge was fun and easy for me, though it still takes some planning. For those of you for whom this challenge sounds almost impossible, fear not. It’s easier if you follow these five simple tips:
1. Pick 1 and 3
When planning your wardrobe, choose one core base color (such as black, brown, grey, purple, etc.) and 2 or 3 accent colors and pack only those colors. That ensures everything will mix and match.
2. Accessory Accents
Pack accessory items in your accent colors. Things itmes like colorful scarves, belts, legware (leggings, tights and socks are so in these days), colorful camisoles and jewelry are small, easy to pack and can be used to change the look of your base color shirts, pants and skirts to make a whole new look. Layering with camisoles is also a great way to manage times of year like this where weather can be varied.
3. The 3 Ounce Rule
Invest in some 3 ounce travel containers or sample sizes of your favorite shampoo, skincare and beauty products. I have my toiletry and make-up bags always at the ready since I am a big traveler and I store it inside my luggage so it’s where i need it when I’m ready to pack. I also like to have quality and fun products in there to treat myself while I travel.
4. Roll With It
Fold clothes neatly and in similar shaped piles. Get in the hapit of rolling items of clothing which will make it easier to fit things snuggly into the corners and crevices of your luggage which is otherwise wasted space. Rolling and folding things well also ensures less wrinkles when you get there.
5. If the Shoe Fits
Shoes take up a bunch of space so see if you can minimize your shoes to 2 to 3 pairs in your core color.
- Watch for heel size… traveling usually involves a bit to a lot of walking so leave the Manolo Blahniks at home.
- For girls, those bootie type shoes are great for winter, spring and fall since they can be dressed up and dressed down.
- A nice pair of flats in your base color is a good choice.
- For business or dressier travel, a pair of basic heels is essential.
- In addition, it’s also nice to pack a pair of not-bulky slippers or flip-flops for long flights and hotel rooms.
Plan to wear the bulkiest shoes you packed to and from getting there to minimize space in your suitcase.
As ever, call me if you need help. Since I’m a big traveler, it’s my specialty!