Pack Light or Stay Home
Not too long ago I was a habitual over packer. It didn’t matter how long or how short the trip was going to be, I felt like I needed OPTIONS. What if we go to a nice restaurant? What if we go to the club? What if we go to the gym? What if? What if? What if?
Here’s the thing. You’re completely in control of your itinerary. Do you stumble across some unexpected fun activities? Of course. Do you need to pack for every possibility? Absolutely not. Below are some guidelines I use to keep myself in check. This is easiest to stick to when going on a weekend trip but can also be applied to a week long trip as well.
Travel in your Day 1 outfit - If you have an idea of what you’re doing on day 1 of your trip, put it on before you hit the airport. If I can’t follow this rule exactly and need to change upon arrival then I also fly out in whatever I flew in, in.
Pack half of what you think you need - I used to pack two outfits for every day i’d be gone plus three pairs of shoes…at least. Now this tip only works if you don’t mind re-wearing your jeans. If I’ll be gone for three days I know I need at least three outfits. But that doesn’t mean three separate sets. One pair of jeans and three shirts. I’ll sometimes pack a dress for good measure. I also limit myself to one pair of shoes, and you guessed it…I fly in them.
Toiletries, only essentials - My makeup bag can hold a lot, but I try not to fill it up anymore. I only pack the essentials. At this point that’s facial wash, sunscreen, lotion, toothpaste, toothbrush, soap and deodorant. No makeup looks for me most of the time.
Don’t tempt yourself with extra space - Carry a small bag. For all of my weekend travel (3-4 days) I take only my Hershel book bag with me. It keeps me accountable because I simply am unable to over pack with it.
Here’s a look at my bag and what I’m taking for my trip this weekend. The only other thing I’ll put in here is my wallet, passport, and selfie stick (which compacts).
