3 Tips for Packing Light(er)

So I inherited my massive packing style from my Mom who packed everything except the kitchen sink “just in case” she needed it!

The goal this travel season, is to proactively think how to pack lighter by repurposing an article of clothing and shoes. As a fashionista, it’s so easy to pack so many items for the “just in case” we go here or there or do this or that. So whether you are planning for a 3-Day stay or 7-Day stay and beyond, there is no need to pack your entire closet.

Here are 3 Tips for packing lighter:

1. Choose to pack ONLY a carry-on sized luggage. So the carry-on size for flights is typically up to about 45 inches (22x14x9in) including handles and wheels but do check your airline for precise measurements. In the past, I would typically reach for the biggest piece of luggage based on the clothes and shoes that I had picked out plus a toiletry bag plus my laptop bag when traveling. By confining what you CAN bring to only the size of a carry-on, you’ll be sure to make wiser choices on what you bring!

2. Choose pieces that are versatile and can be worn and styled from day to-night. Would it be so wrong to wear the same pair of shoes or two on a trip…I think not! In the past I would bring an outfit for the day and a different outfit for the night and if it was a beach trip, I would have about 3 to 4 different outfits for one day…so unnecessary! So choose something like a maxi dress or maxi skirt and tank for the day and throw on a chambray or blazer at night to turn the look from day wear to-night wear.

3. Choose lighter fabrics. I never really thought of the fabrics of the clothes that I was packing, I just packed all that I wanted to pack…until I was trying to pack lighter and confined myself to the smaller piece of luggage. Lighter fabrics include:

Cotton voile: Voile is a lightweight, semi-sheer fabric with a great drape.
Cotton lawn: Lawn is very similar to cotton voile but is slightly crisper.
Rayon challis: Rayon challis is a smooth, lightweight fabric. It drapes well and is slightly heavier than other lightweight fabrics, like cotton voile and cotton lawn.
Chambray: Chambray is another smooth, lightweight fabric. It doesn’t drape as well as rayon challis, cotton voile or cotton lawn.
Silk: Silk is a lightweight, delicate fabric that drapes well. It has a slightly shimmery appearance. Silk can be slippery and more difficult to work with. It also makes a great lining fabric.
Satin: Satin can vary from lightweight to heavyweight, depending on the type of satin. Like silk, it has a glossy appearance
Flannel: Flannel is a soft, lightweight fabric. It works well for colder-temperature shirts, pants and jackets.

I do hope that these 3 tips are helpful!

So where are you lovelies headed this summer? Safe travels and happy trails to you!

3 Tips for Packing Light(er)