Traveling for work or fun can be hectic. Then add in a holiday, and it’s downright stressful. Let’s start with the nightmare of packing a suitcase when you already have a full calendar. Would you believe me if I told you I can make it easy for you and all the while packing only a carryon? I will help you save money and time and give you peace of mind.

Will you accept the carryon challenge?  Here are a few packing guidelines to make this possible.

Vacation Packing and the Carryon Challenge

 

FUNCTION FIRST

Most people at the end of a trip realize they only needed half of what they packed. Does this sound like you? I want you to be that person that uses nearly everything you brought because you spent quality time thinking it through. Let’s begin.

First, you will need to look at your itinerary and ask yourself how many settings do you need outfits for? If you’re in warm weather, you might want casual wear for shopping the outdoor markets, something fancier for dinner in a nice restaurant and of course, attire for the beach or poolside. If you’re in cold weather, you may be hitting the slopes for some winter sports activities, visiting friends or family, taking in museums or historical sites.

Now go to your closet and start building your travel wardrobe with only these functions in mind. Lay out some choices on your bed. See if some pieces could work in more than one setting. The idea is to have pieces that can work in multiple settings. These wardrobe puzzle pieces will start fitting together. Taking the time to do this exercise will make traveling with just a carryon possible. 

VARIETY MATTERS

I’m not encouraging a dull, limited travel wardrobe. Not at all. There is a way to get variety without the extra baggage. Variety is easy to manage when you pack things that are either small or can be rolled up. Some easy pieces to add for variety are print scarves (crinkle ones are a great choice), costume jewelry (leave the expensive stuff at home for peace of mind), and tops or blouses.

Curb your enthusiasm for shoes and keep choices to a minimum. This is a strong statement coming from a girl who used to pack a different pair of shoes for each outfit. Not anymore. I suggest trying to keep it to three pairs of shoes. A great walking shoe, a going out shoe and a casual shoe are three excellent choices. Sometimes your casual shoe can double as your walking shoe but know the comfort of your shoe before relying on it to play both roles. *TIP: Build your outfits around the shoes you’ve decided to bring.

COLOR SCHEME

Make the most out of the things you pack by sticking to one color scheme. Pick one or two of your favorite neutrals and add one or two coordinating colors. Include solids and prints. This will also expand your outfit options because you can mix and match and everything will work together.

Another idea is to pick one color and vary the textures. Use your accessories to bring in some interest through color, patterns, and shine. Add a denim piece or two (jeans or a jean jacket), and you’ve rounded out your travel wardrobe.

ESSENTIALS

What are those essentials that you don’t want to leave behind? Make sure you leave room for them in your carryon. They could include your cozy slippers, your music speaker, a wide-brimmed hat, a travel steamer, your journal, or your favorite moisturizer in a three-ounce container. Is there an item or items that give you instant comfort and joy? Having something with you, that’s part of your normal home routine can make the chaos of traveling easier to bear.

I’ve had lots of experience helping clients plan their wardrobes for all sorts of trips. This is one of the hardest things to do on your own so don’t hesitate in asking for my assistance. I’ll help you with those wardrobe puzzle pieces. You’ll start out your trip with peace of mind and the assurance that you have everything you need.

“Thank you LeAnn for your fabulous help!  Your professionalism and creativity were awesome.  You truly took out all of the stress of packing for an extended multi-season trip–and made it fun and seem almost easy!   I am grateful for the thoughtfulness and personal consideration you displayed in choosing each and every outfit (and eliminating those that were really not needed)!  I would highly recommend your expert services to anyone who travels! Thanks again, LeAnn!  You were amazing!” –Shirley K. (Kalamazoo, MI)