I used to be the worst at packing light. Just for reference, I used to take a full-sized large luggage and a carry on with me….to Vegas ( I live in Los Angeles). Don’t laugh, even if you’ve never packed this way, you probably know someone who has. I was one of those people who just had to take everything. Full size shampoo bottles, 4-5 pairs of shoes, and an insane amount of outfit choices.

We decided to go to New Zealand and Hawaii in the spring of last year. My fiance said he was only going to bring a carry-on. “WHAT?!!!!” I said. He then suggested we both try to take a carry-on only. Mind you, this was a 12 day trip. I was very hesitant, as this left little room for option. Packing is usually a stressful time for me, I get so worried about what I might forget. This time around, it was different.

Instead of feeling stressed, I felt the opposite. When I really thought about it, I never did wear all the clothes I brought before. I was ready to take on the challenge. I ended up packing 2 pairs of jeans, a few pairs of leggings, about 5 tops, two sweaters, and a bathing suit. I have a small rain jacket which I  packed into my carry-on, and I wore a heavier jacket on the plane, as well as my heavier pair of shoes. I took two pairs of pajamas, a small bag of toiletries and makeup, socks, and undergarments. (we purchased cheap beach towels and accessories in Hawaii)

Here are some tips I have for packing light and efficient

• Roll your clothes! Don’t fold your jeans and leggings, roll them, it takes up less room.
• Bring your own quick drying wash cloth. If you are traveling to another country realize that not every place supplies those small wash towels we are all familiar with. In Ireland, we found this to be the case sometimes. I also like to have my own small wash cloth, it feels cleaner. On amazon you can find a brand called Lunatec. They dry in 5-10 min! You can shower, pack your stuff and throw in the dry towel. Lunatec Travel Washcloths
• Two pairs of shoes only, you can get away with three if the third is a pair of flats or sandals. This made my trip to New Zealand so easy. Boots and a pair of Nike’s is what I took. The boots matched with everything and looked nice for going out at night. Then on the days I wanted to explore, my Nike’s were super comfortable.
• Buy a travel blow-dryer or straighter if you must have them. I have a small travel dryer by BabyLiss that I purchased on amazon. It works great, and when folded is smaller than the size of my hand. I usually bring this because we tend to say in rentals opposed to hotels. BaByliss Travel Hairdryer
• Minimize makeup. Try finding a small makeup bag, and tell yourself you can only pack what fits inside. I use a travel makeup palette similar to the one shown here. Almost everything you need in one place.
• Packable Jackets are life! I have a Cole Haan rain jacket that is perfect for day and night. It was pricey but I’ve used it so many times. Best part is that it folds down quite small.
• Do laundry in another country or state. My fiance and I had a fun time finding a laundry spot in Paris. After we started our laundry, we sat outside and people watched while having some coffee and snacks. This will allow you to pack less clothes.
• Space bags! If you are still unsure about packing light, or really want that extra sweater. Pick up some space bags by Ziplock. They are great, they provide a vacuum seal by rolling the air out by hand, and they are re-usable. Ziplock Travel Spacebag
• Bring only one “night” outfit. You will kill yourself if you try to bring multiple outfits to wear at night. What I’ve learned is that if you throw on a jacket, scarf, and add a piece of jewelry it can dress up a day outfit quite nicely. If you have scheduled events, this is a different scenario, but for basic travel, just have one nice outfit, just in case.
• Dryer sheets and a trash bag. I always bring dryer sheets. I put them in a small bag and poke a few holes into the bag. My clothes always smell fresh, and If I decide to do laundry, I can use the sheets. The trash bag, or other bag I use for dirty laundry.
• Pack for the best case scenario! If your going to another state this is an easier concept to grasp, but it remains true for international travel as well. Remember these other countries will have everything you need if you forget something. You’ll even find familiar brands abroad, like Dove, Pantene, ect. (I’ll probably bring my own products on my next trip, as I am trying to transition to vegan products, but I’m sure other countries have these as well).

I hope you’ve enjoyed these tips. My trip to New Zealand was so much easier because I simplified my packing. I didn’t have multiple clothing options everyday, so I spent less time getting ready, and more time exploring. I now feel more organized with a minimal amount of things to pack.

 

Happy Travels

Have a peaceful and happy day.