During the winter, most of us have tendencies to "bulk up": we gain weight, we wear layers of clothes, we wear bulky coats, and lots of boots. However, we cannot take this mentality on the road to warmer climates. So let's look at ways to make packing for your vacation easier.
I am always anxious to reach my destination, and now, I hate paying for extra luggage (boo to you airlines!), so I have become the Queen of Carry-on Luggage. Here are tips to organize your packing and NOT forget your essential items...
1. Check the Weather: Most people check the weather, but be sure to look at the evening forecasts for your travel destination. If it is going to rain, be sure to pack a SMALL compact umbrella and maybe take a hat or outerwear with a hood for extra protection. Even if it's not supposed to rain, bring that umbrella.
2. Plan your Itinerary: If you are going to visit family or friends, find out what plans they have in mind. If you are vacationing somewhere without visiting locals, search online and read about your destination. Plan your activities ahead. As a personal rule of thumb, I always pack an evening dress (for dancing), walking shoes, and 2 tee-shirts (for leisure/pajamas).
3. Lay Out Your Wears: Now that you've done your research, lay out all the clothes you think you will bring on the trip. Now put half of them back. No seriously, you're probably over packing. Here's an example: unless you plan on wearing jeans everyday, you do not need more than 1 or 2 pairs. Bottoms can be worn more than once, so bring a few bottoms but more tops! Also, keep your clothing choices centered around 2 or 3 pair of shoes, of which, 1 of those pair you will wear on the plane.
4. Toiletries - Size Does Matter: TRAVEL SIZE IS YOUR FRIEND! You don't have to purchase travel size items any more, you can purchase little, clear, reusable containers and add you favorite lotions and soaps. Just label them so you don't confuse lotion for soap in the shower. When it comes to the makeup bag, pack makeup that compliments the clothes you are bringing along. You do not need every lip color you own on a 5-day trip.
5. Shoes, A Women's Best Friend, Packing's Worse Enemy: We love our shoes, but we can't bring every pair! If you are vacationing for 5 days, you could get away with 3 pair of shoes. Bring a sexy/super cute pair of heels for the "it" dress or outfit you are bringing for a night on the town, and 2 pair of comfortable, but cute shoes for walking and everyday wear. Ballerina flats, cute gym shoes, gladiator sandals, and Haviana's (my all-time favorite flip flop) are all great options. If you pick shoes that can be flattened, you may be able to squeeze in an extra pair!
6. Body Prep-Time: Get manis and pedis prior to your trip, or make that part of your plan, but DO NOT bring nail polish. If the top is not on tight enough, that could be a very bad situation. If you just have to bring polish, put it in a ziploc bag; if it leaks, it will not mess up other items. Shave legs and and get your hair done prior to the trip to eliminate extra items. Plan hairstyles ahead of time and bring lots of bobby pins, hair pins, and ponytail holders. You never know what may happen.
7. Lady Parts!: Now that you have picked out your outfits, be sure to bring the appropriate undergarments. Don't forget your strapless bra, from those special "numbers". I always bring extra underwear because I'd rather be safe than sorry.
8. Accessorize!: This is a hard one. The best advice I can give is to lay out each outfit and pick out jewelry that goes with each. Then, try to "cross" some of the jewelry by wearing some pieces more than once. Bring a few pairs of earrings, bracelets, and necklaces that match all of your outfits. DO NOT pack your fine jewelery. Wear it on the plane, you would rather be safe than sorry.
9. Don't Air Your Dirty Laundry: When I pack, I ALWAYS bring a dry-cleaning bag (or grocery bag) for my dirty clothes. This makes unpacking easier, and you do not have to worry about soiled clothes touching cleaner clothes. That's kinda gross.
10. Put It ALL Together: Now it's time to actually pack the clothes. I found some really neat ideas on Real Simple, so view the link below. There's a 3-minute video with techniques on packing without getting your clothes extra wrinkled. Take a look at the link below:
Happy Winter! :)
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