There are recommended formulas for diet, exercise, dating, cleaning, and even packing light for a trip. The best formulas for packing light are usually the easiest to follow. I cannot speak with authority on diet and exercise, and as far as dating I am no expert. However, when it comes to packing and organizing I’ve got some skills.
The method I use is more focused on the versatility of each item making packing a breeze without the use of cubes. Wether you use cubes or not it is important to first lay out the clothing you plan to pack. This method takes a little more planning but once you’ve arrived at your destination you are never at a loss as to what to wear because all of your tops will match with all of your bottoms. The other detail to my method is I always have more tops than bottoms, less shoes and jewelry, and no more than one dress.
The key to packing light is all in the editing. However, if you struggle with actually editing your wardrobe for trips try the 5-4-3-2-1 method of packing.
5 Tops—Remember to choose wisely. All of your tops should pair easily with all of your bottoms.
4 Bottoms—Stick with neutral colors like black, white and camel. In addition think in terms of the versatility of an item. For example pack a skirt that can also be worn as a dress. And as much as we all might have too much black in our wardrobes the color black is king when it comes to minimizing your packing.
3 Pairs of Shoes—Depending on the season you are packing for will depend on wether you pack 3 pairs of shoes or 2. Remember you also have the pair you will be wearing on your flight so you may not need to pack that third pair in which case you can add another item of your choice. For travel during the summer months you may only need a pair of walking shoes (sneakers), a pair of sandals, and a slightly dressier pair of shoes.
2 Coverups—Even in the warmer months a light cardigan can be essential as planes, restaurants, and evenings can be cool. The other benefits of packing cardigans is they are easy to layer and can also be worn as a top giving you more outfit options.
1 Dress—I always find packing a dress in summer essential. However, not so much in the fall. If you are not a dress person then choose a tunic which can be more versatile.
As far as undergarments, socks, jewelry, and scarves can be packed into empty spaces like shoes. Keep in mind this is merely a guideline and you may find that you need to pack something not on the list in which case you can substitute. For example during the summer you may want to pack a bathing suit. You can either trade it out for an item or if you have extra room you can roll it and add it to your bag. In addition to everything you pack take a wrap with you on the plane. You will need it when the cabin crew turns up the AC but you will find it may come in handy when you need a wrap during the evening.
Eat well, laugh a lot, and travel chic!
