If you’re like most people, packing for holiday travel is a daunting task. You want to bring enough clothes to stay stylish and comfortable, but you don’t want to have to check a bag. And if you’re traveling somewhere cold, the whole process becomes even more complicated. But never fear! With a little planning and a capsule wardrobe, you can pack light and still look great. Here’s how.
Plan Your Outfits in Advance
The first step in packing light is to plan your outfits in advance. This may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s amazing how many people pack without giving any thought to what they’re going to wear. Take some time to look at your itinerary and figure out what you’re going to need. If you’re going to be doing a lot of walking, make sure you pack comfortable shoes. If you’re attending any formal events, make sure you have the right clothes. Planning ahead will save you a lot of time and frustration later on. To save yourself even more time down the line, you can also take photos of some of your favorite combinations and for which events each look is for, as I do with a lot of my personal styling clients when we are planning outfits for them. Some might think this is overly diligent or a bit excessive, but it’s actually a lifesaver when you’re in a panic and need something quickly when running from one event or activity to another.
Create a Capsule Wardrobe
Once you know what you need, it’s time to start packing. But before you start throwing clothes into a suitcase, take a minute to create a capsule wardrobe. A capsule wardrobe is a small collection of versatile clothing that can be mixed and matched to create multiple different looks. For example, if you’re traveling with just one carry-on bag, you might pack two pairs of jeans, two tops, a sweater, a jacket, and a pair of shoes that can be worn with everything. With just a few key pieces, you can create endless outfit possibilities. Not only will this save space in your suitcase, it will also save you time when getting dressed each day.
Choose the Right Luggage
Now that you know what you’re going to pack and how you’re going to pack it, it’s time to choose the right luggage. If you’re traveling by plane, make sure you choose a carry-on bag that meets the size requirements of the airline you’ll be flying with. And if you’re driving or taking the train, make sure your bag is small enough to fit in the trunk or overhead compartment. The last thing you want is to be lugging around a heavy suitcase when all you need is a small weekender bag.
Conclusion:
Packing for holiday travel doesn’t have to be difficult or stressful. By planning your outfits in advance and creating a capsule wardrobe, you can pack light and still look great. And by choosing the right luggage, you can make sure your belongings are safe and secure while still being easy to carry around. So next time you’re getting ready for a trip, remember these tips and enjoy stress-free packing!
