Packing: The Traveling Fashionista’s Worst Nightmare
As I enter my mid-twenties, start to realize I’m on the brink of a quarter-life crisis, it seems that the desire to jet off to a far away destination is constantly on my mind. I really love traveling, everything about it – even long car trips and airplane food (if my flight actually comes with it) excites me. The only thing that I find dreadful about globetrotting is packing. I really used to detest it because I could never figure out what exactly to bring (or couldn’t bring myself to leave anything at home). So I end up lugging around a giant suitcase filled with tonnes of stuff, half of which I don’t end up using but brought “just in case”. To stop myself from doing this, I’ve come up with some rules to help keep me in check when packing. Hopefully this will help all you jet-setting fashionstas out there too. Happy Packing!
Rule No 1: Plan, Plan, Plan ahead
Make an itinerary of everything you will or potentially will be doing on your trip a few weeks ahead and then figure out your outfits accordingly. Pack versatile pieces like a black pair of pumps or a basic jersey dress that can be worn to different activities throughout the day and night.
Rule No 2: Have the right hardware and techniques
Bring a sturdy suitcase with lots of compartments to help stay organized. When packing clothes it can better to roll them up instead of folding them. This way each piece takes up less space and if rolled carefully creases and wrinkles shouldn’t be a problem.
Rule No 3: Make the items you bring travel friendly
Bring travel sized shampoos and conditioners. If you want to bring the products you use already squeeze some into a small bottle or container (stores like Daiso or the dollar store sell mini bottles perfect for travel). Smaller bottle liquids also mean you don’t have to check-in your carry-on on flights. Bring pieces of clothing that can be worn more than one way like scarves or dresses, such as American Apparel’s famous jersey bandeau.
Now the only question is, where to go next?
Very good advice. I also like bringing small cloth pouches, zip cases, and bags. They’re handy for putting shoes into, sorting makeup, and stashing small accessories like silk scarves or costume jewelry which can get snagged or scratched.