Confessions of an Inefficient Packer (And Tips From Better Ones)
If you, like me, pack 4 tank tops when you need a sweater, this is a story for you.
Like many people around the world, I’m traveling again this summer. My first few trips were quick weekends within a few hours of where I live, nothing too out of the ordinary. It’s been a while, and I knew I was rusty on the travel front, but these excursions made me realize something that I probably already knew but forgot about in the time stuck in my NYC apartment: I’m a terrible packer. Like really, really bad. It’s not just that I pack too many clothes; I screw up every part of the packing process. It starts with panic. I’m frantically checking the weather of my destination, trying to figure out what I should wear to not be too hot or cold. I get debilitated by the idea and decide I need to just pack for every climate despite what the weather says.
Next, I scroll through Pinterest to get ideas for outfits I’ll pack but not wear. I start with the basics: a few tank tops, underwear, socks, etc., go into the bottom of my suitcase. Then, I try to think about occasions. I need something for a nice dinner, a casual breakfast, a workout, a long walk, and maybe even a party. I start pulling out things from all over my room, and soon enough, my entire wardrobe is on the floor, and I’m yelling ‘why am I like this?’ to no one. This is where things get even more chaotic.
Options, I need options. I desperately start rolling five pairs of jeans, four dresses, and three skirts, never considering how many days I’m there, just trying to get the most I can into a bag. And then, oh crap, I need pajamas, and there is no more room. And what about shoes? Sneakers, boots, sandals, loafers, and slides can’t all fit in one bag. This past weekend is a prime example. It was even colder than I anticipated, but I had four tank tops taking up space in an already bulging bag instead of a sweater. I also edited out comfortable shoes, thinking I was efficient even though I knew I’d be doing a ton of walking. The result was that I was freezing, and my feet hurt for three days.
In a few weeks, I’ll be going on a more extended trip, and I already know packing will be rough. So, ahead of that trip, I wanted to figure out how to be a better packer - like a YouTube influencer who somehow has ten perfect outfits in a tiny little bag. To do that, I’ve enlisted the help of some of my most fashionable and well-traveled friends. And well, their advice below is perfect - I just need to take it.
Jessica Andrews, Fashion Director, Traveler Extraordinaire
Via Jessica Andrews
My friends always marvel at how I pack so many outfits and never check a bag. The key is to pack flat pieces in your carry-on luggage (and roll them). Put bulkier items — think shoes — in your bag that goes under your seat (I use a weekender). Wear your bulkiest outfit/shoes to the airport. As far as what to pack, my advice is to choose pieces you can easily mix and match for multiple looks. Include layers like a black wrap scarf or leather jacket you can wear with anything. I always make an itinerary beforehand and plan specific outfits based on activities to avoid overpacking. It works like a charm!
Lauren Rouza, Fashion Publicist, Expert Traveler
Via Lauren Rouza
Instead of pre-planning individual outfits, try packing pieces within a specific color palette, so you’re easily able to mix and match, giving you more options. Also, putting dryer sheets inside your shoes is a game changer. Keeps everything in your suitcase smelling like fresh laundry.
Michaela O’Shaughnessy, Social Media Manager, Traveling Genius
Via Michaela O’Shaughnessy
Over the past couple of years, I’ve perfected my packing routine, especially when it comes to packing a small suitcase for a short trip. For me, packing cubes are a must-have for fitting in as much as possible with limited space. I usually use one for undies/socks, one for workout clothes, and the other for outfits that I’ve tried my best to pre-plan depending on what I have going on. I also swear by having a makeup bag that you only use for traveling, and keeping it pre packed with your minis, some Advil and other necessities.
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This Stuff is a newsletter by me! fashion journalist, Alyssa Hardy. Three times a week, I unpack the ways our clothes impact the world through news, essays, interviews and more. Subscribe for free here and follow me on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.
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