Have you ever arrived to check-in at the airport and been surprised that your bag weighs 60 pounds? Many of us are prone to overpacking which can turn a relaxing vacation into a stressful one. I’m already thinking about a trip I have planned to France this fall, and it’s proving to be a challenge – even for me as a wardrobe stylist!
Pack Less. I am an emotional dresser. If I feel good in what I have on, I can do anything. While thinking about what I was going to pack for my trip to France, my first instinct was to start shopping. Then I slowed down and thought about my wardrobe and pulled out my tried-and-true pieces. Those items I love are mostly versatile basics that can mix and match and keep me comfortable in any weather. I did purchase a raincoat with a hood. (Not that I don’t have any raincoats, but for some reason none of mine had hoods. Guess I owned them for fashion and not function!)
So, here is my plan for packing for 10 days with only a carry-on bag and a small backpack. I want to be in control of my belongings. I have traveled too many times feeling overwhelmed with the bulk of my bags. Wow! True confessions here!
Pick a color scheme. This was not difficult as I love to wear black. I am pairing the black with white and olive green. I might throw in a couple of navy pieces, and one print blouse that will go with either black or navy. I also like a checked black and white pant to pair with a solid color tee.
Decide on the weather conditions, temps and consider the season. I always need layers. The key here is to not pack anything too bulky for layering. Non-wrinkle stretch fabrics are best. One sweater cardigan and one blazer to take if it gets chilly in the evening or in air-conditioning. Oh, and a raincoat with a hood!
The airport/plane outfit. It must be super comfortable and stylish. Men: please no shorts on the airplane. I hate sitting next to a hairy leg. All items that you are packing must not be single outfits. Bringing a blouse that will only coordinate with one pair of pants is not wise. A three-piece jogger set would be perfect for the airplane. A tee, zip jacket and an elastic waist pant combo in a dark color. This can also be your lounging outfit and running to grab a coffee in the morning outfit.
Limit shoes to 3 pairs. The first two should be something you can walk in all day. A sleek sneaker in white or black, that you can put on the miles in, and an all-day walking sandal. This way if you get a blister, you have two options for those long days of sightseeing. Even a pair of Keens would work. The third shoe should be a bit dressier – a sandal with a wedge heel or a ballet flat. As the weather gets cooler, a nicer bootie would be a good option. Your heaviest shoes should be worn on the plane.
Less is more. Pack your favorites and wear on repeat. Wrinkle-free dresses are also a good option for the ease of layering and wearing multiple times. Pair it with a cashmere cardigan or cotton jacket.
Consider using packing cubes. I found that packing like items together, or clothing for certain activities, is very helpful – less digging around in your suitcase. Casual daytime, walking/hiking, evening outfits, sox, undergarments, and pajamas, each go in a cube together. Especially if you are going to be changing up your lodging.
Travel with an easy-rolling carry-on roller bag. Be sure the wheels are on the very far corners so it doesn’t tip easily.
AAA Store in St. Louis Park is a great resource for all your luggage needs and a little inspiration.
Also check out Luggage World:
https://www.luggageworldmn.com/luggage-world-st-louis-park-minnesota
Here are a couple more packing options:
Happy Travels!
I am pre-booking August and mid-September appointments now. I hope this inspires you to pack with confidence! If you need a little inspiration to live with less and feel fulfilled, you know that you need to contact me.
Lynne
612-708-2244
Lynne@LynneKehne.com
***Click on images for links to websites***
