Smart Packing Tricks for an EXTENDED VACATION
PC: @orionvanessa
If you know me, you know I’m an expert in extended getaways. A month in Bali? Check. Three months in Paris? Check. One year traveling the world alone? Also check. Almost every summer I find myself booking a one or two month trip to somewhere and working remotely from there. And through these years of jet-setting, I can say I’ve developed a solid grip on what I should and shouldn’t pack. This is from the perspective of someone who wants to travel comfortably, in style, but still not check in an oversized baggage. I’m going to need all my essentials without overpacking, and still leave space in my suitcase to fit some newly shopped items. The worst feeling during travel is when you’ve realized you’ve packed a number of things that simply acted as suitcase stuffers. So in order to avoid all that and instead embrace smart packing, read on.
Less Statement, More Basics
I know, I know. It’s your vacation and you want to wear things that STUN. By all means, please do. However the difference between a long trip and a short trip is that you will need to repeat a couple of outfits, so having more basics that can be paired into different styles will serve you better. Not only that, but you will be more inspired to buy things that are out of your comfort zone when you’re shopping overseas (something about the magic of a new city…). So save your statement pieces to be bought on your trip, and instead pack more of your staple items.
Keep the Skincare Products to a Minimum
Yes, you CAN do it. Ask yourself if the product you are using is actually showing some real results, or if it’s something good marketing simply told you it would. Don’t worry, you can always come back to them after your trip. But unless these items are going to actively serve you in the time that you are abroad, then leave it at home. Skincare items are going to be some of the heaviest things you pack, so the more you can eliminate, the lighter your luggage will be.
Pick the Right Suitcase
Trust me when I say the right suitcase can make or break your travel experience. I’m a firm believer that the transportation should be just as enjoyable as the trip itself, so you don’t want to be dragged down by some heavy old suitcase with a broken wheel. Find the best luggage brands here and take your pick to ensure a smooth travel experience.
Keep A Pair of Clothes In Your Carry-On
In case you’re checking in one large suitcase and only bringing a bag onto the plane, then I recommend packing a set of clothes in your carry-on as well. Why? Well, unfortunately sometimes your luggage gets lost. Sometimes, it takes a few DAYS before you’re reunited again. And do you want to spend the first few days wearing exactly what you wore on the plane? Didn’t think so.
Roll, don’t Fold Your Clothes
You may have heard of this dainty packing trick already, but rolling up your clothes into a tight little burrito will save you tons of space in your suitcase. Not to mention, it also makes it easier to organize and pick things out of your luggage.
Remove 3 Things From Your Suitcase
I don’t just do this when it comes to packing for travel, but I do this when I’m grocery shopping as well. Once I feel like I’ve packed everything I need, I go back and remove three things. Those three things will be at the bottom of your must-haves list, and are probably only items you found whilst rummaging through your clothes and forgot you had. No. If you don’t wear/use it on the daily now, you’re not going to wear/use it on your trip.
