Packing + Traveling Light
How to Pack Light for Travel: 3 Simple Tips
How many times have you gone on vacation or a weekend getaway and found yourself wearing less than half the clothes you packed. It’s a classic case of over-packing—no shade—we’ve all been there, myself included. I’ve spent the last few years really nailing down my packing routine, and boy what a game-changer!
The key:
pack multifunctional items
stick to a simple color palette
only bring the necessities
BEFORE PACKING EACH ITEM – ASK YOURSELF THESE SIMPLE QUESTIONS
Q: Can I wear this article of clothing in at least 2 combinations?
Make sure each top, bottom, jacket, dress, and shoe can be worn multiple times, in multiple ways. Shoes especially. Avoid bringing the pair of heels that only go with one outfit, it’s a waste of luggage space.
Q: Can I wash this article of clothing at my destination, if necessary
Undergarments, socks, and simple tops - if these can be washed halfway through your trip, even in the hotel sink, there’s no need to pack double the amount.
Q: Have I worn this article of clothing in the last 6 months?
This is a tough one for some. Unless you’ve been saving that new dress for this particular occasion (wedding, destination vacay, etc.) chances are you're not going to wear it on this trip. Travel is not the time to try out new outfits, stick with what you know, and the pieces you love - bring only what you actually wear in real / daily life. Keep it simple when traveling.
FALL/WINTER PACKING LIST • 5-7 DAYS (sample)
Structured Hat
Weekender/Carry-all Bag
Oversized Coat | Can also be used as a blanket or pillow on the plane.
Blazer or leather jacket | Both can instantly dress up any outfit. #putablazeronitFlat/Casual Shoe | Bring something you can wear both day and night. My goto’s: Classic Chuck Taylors or my mom’s vintage flats
Big Cozy Sweater | You can’t go wrong with a thick cable knit sweater.
Long-sleeve shirt | Stripes are always a good idea and are great for layering.
T-shirt | High-quality material, no writing, or logos so you can wear it multiple times without notice.
Blouse | Keep it simple with the blouse, no ruffles, minimal hardware, and flare.
Tank | For layering.
Pajama Set | Makes getting ready for bed a cinch.
Heel or Boot | I rarely wear heels, so a fun pair of boots with some detail can work with multiple outfits.
Denim | Black or dark wash can easily go from day to night.
Dress joggers/pants | I love these pants, I even wear them around the house
Lounge or Workout pant | Whichever best suits you;)
Underwear | You can always wash halfway through. My rule: Same style in black.
Socks | I go all black on the socks as well. Multifunction, both ankle and crew.
(1) Sports bra (1) lace bra (1) cotton bra | And you’re covered.
Clutch | When I’m not lugging my computer bag around, I opt for a simple clutch. Works for both day or night, and it’s a safe place to pack your jewelry and accessories during travel. (Always in your carry-on, NEVER in a checked bag).
Beanie | Come winter, we all live in beanies, yes?
Scarf/Bandana | Wear it in your hair or as a scarf to keep you warm. (or as a covid-mask)
Slippers or Wool socks | For the plane or those cold Airbnb floors.
The outfit combinations here are endless. The same shirt you wore lounging around, can easily transform into a dinner outfit with some black jeans and a leather jacket or blazer. Accessories are key when traveling light. Bring one statement piece (like a necklace, bracelet, or watch) that can easily dress up any outfit.
BONUS TIP: Wear bulkier pieces like jackets, sweaters, boots, and denim on the plane or train. This saves so much space when packing. And makes your departing and arrival outfit easy to select.
This article is a revised version of an old LivingBetterWithLess tumblr post from February 24th, 2015