Traveling Light: Packing Like a Pro

I used to think the more you travel, the better you are at traveling “light.” This theory does not hold up when you consider my oldest brother, a flight attendant, who carries the largest roller luggage possible even for short excursions. He once lost a bag with nine pairs of shoes inside! Nine. Pairs. Of. Shoes. Let’s don’t follow his example.

I do believe the more you travel, the better you can get at packing light. Packing light simply needs to be something you want to do. Taking the time to plan is key. I recently returned from a work trip to the Dominican Republic where two people on separate occasions remarked, “Is that all you have?” when they saw my bags. Glad to know I took my own advice. Below is an assortment of my looks during my trip.

Top Tips for Traveling Light

Without further delay, here are your top tips for traveling light.

Determine Your Travel Outfit

When flying (or driving), wear the same outfit going and returning. This eliminates the hassle of deciding what to wear on the way home. By the end of the trip, you’re tired and the last thing you need to do is make one more decision.

Pack Two Pairs of Shoes (Maximum)

If you are dining in nice restaurants or attending a special event, pack one pair of “dress” shoes. The second pair I recommend packing is a walking-around shoe that you can rotate between the pair you wear during travel. If you are exercising on your trip, make that shoe your alternate pair. I recommend wearing your bulkiest (hardest to pack) shoe during your journey to your destination.

Layering is Key

Weather can change on a dime. Layers give you options in case the weather turns cooler. If you intend to take a bulky jacket, carry it on the plane (or in the car) to save precious luggage space. If a jacket is not needed, carry an oversized scarf or a wrap in your hand carry bag. A light layer on one’s shoulders helps immensely in cold restaurants and theaters. Scarves make nice travel accessories in the place of jewelry, which you may decide to leave at home. Lastly, pack one or two camisoles or cotton t-shirts (long or short sleeve depending on climate). These quick and easy layers might be just what you need. In fact, see me in a simple black t-shirt with a printed skirt above. It was perfect for a casual dinner.

Create a Capsule

It is important to lay everything out on your bed or in your closet to see how pieces work together. Ideally, every top goes with each bottom so you can interchange pieces. This step is very important. Don’t skip it. Otherwise, you may find yourself at your destination with too many “odd ball” pieces that don’t go with anything. Before creating your capsule, decide on your trip color story, and pull pieces in those colors. Remove colors that don’t work well together.

Simplify Your Makeup and Skincare Routine

Pair down your makeup to the bare minimum. I often fill a small container with my foundation to avoid carrying the larger size. Decide on ONE blush and THREE eye shadow shades to carry. For lips, pack one color in your purse and two colors in your luggage. For skincare, carry a cleanser, a serum and a moisturizer for evening and a sunscreen for daytime. Masks, toners, etc. are okay to abandon for travel.

Wear Everything More Than Once

I pack a little laundry detergent to wash undies and socks, if needed. On an extended trip, it’s important to wear clothing at least twice to save luggage space. Hang up garments to air them out at the end of your day. If needed, spray them with this to refresh. Hanging them in your bathroom during your shower helps, too. If you have room, a travel steamer freshens clothing, too.

Space Bags and Cube Bags Help Immensely

Space bags are wonderful for condensing bulky clothes like sweaters and jeans. Cube bags keep like things together and organize your luggage for more efficient packing. I like cube bags for socks, undies and smaller items like t-shirts. The New York Times recently shared their favorite packing cubes here.

Carry a Bag Inside Your Bag

When possible, I enjoy shopping during trips. If you think you might pick up trip souvenirs, pack a thin, lightweight bag like a duffle or a reusable shopping tote. If flying, I carry my souvenirs with me onto the plane so I can keep a close eye on my new things.

My Top Tip

Decide on what you will wear and wear it. Allow yourself one or two “just in case” pieces that coordinate with the rest of your capsule. That’s it. On my work trip earlier this month, I wore a dress I had packed at the last minute. With this extra piece, I had freedom to switch my plan. At most destinations, if you need something you did not bring, you can purchase it.

Bonus Tip: Give yourself plenty of time to pack. Packing the night before or the day of is a sure-fire way to overpack. My work trip packing took me about 3-4 hours, which seems like a lot of time. However, I needed that time to make adjustments and to think about what I truly wanted to take on the trip. Since I had blocked that time, I wasn’t rushed, which helped me make wise decisions. If possible, pack 1-2 days prior to your departure.

Need Help?

I am here to make the wardrobe part of your life simple and stress-free. If you would like help travel packing, email me at bethany@bethanysiggins.com. You can also get in touch via my contact form on my website here. We can shop together before travels to fill in gaps, if needed. I’m always up for your wardrobe challenges. Learn more about me here.

Wishing you wonderful summer travels! Let me know how you did with your packing.