Confession time…I am THE WORST at packing light. I am the girl who packs for every situation and all weather types, even if it means taking my ankle boots for Summer in Spain, three different types of shampoo and medication for colds and flu.
This summer, however, my husband and I are jetting off for a city break in Rome for four days and we are only allowed hand luggage. I have been searching the internet for the best packing light tips, and today I will bring you the ten that have helped me the most!
- Don’t take all your tech
These days, your smart phone is likely to be able to be used for multiple functions (e.g. camera, e-reader, map, guidebook, games) meaning you do not really need to pack any of these things extra. This will also cut down on the amount of chargers you need to take.
- Take a smaller purse
You are unlikely to need many of the cards you usually carry around in your purse at home. Clubcards, shop membership cards, student cards, library cards etc all add up to extra space and weight. Buy a small coin purse with a zip, big enough for a credit card, travel cash, health card and your driving licence.
- Take mini toiletries
Most major supermarkets and pharmacy shops will have a travel section with mini products. Or if you really want to be savvy, you can buy small empty containers and pour the products you already have into them.
- Don’t pack at the last minute
When you pack at the last minute, you start to panic and just throw things into the case. The earlier you pack, the more organised you can be with deciding what you do really need and what you don’t.
- Do not take more than two pairs of shoes
You are very unlikely to need any more than two pairs of shoes. Take a practical comfy pair for walking around it, and a prettier pair for if you go somewhere nicer at night.
- Don’t pack anything ‘Just in case’
If it is very unlikely you’ll need it, do not pack it.
- Make a holiday Capsule Wardrobe
I LOVE the idea of a capsule wardrobe, and Pinterest has some great inspiration for holiday wardrobes, whether you’re going for a few days, a week, or longer! The best thing about capsule wardrobes is that it enables you to mix and match a small number of clothes to make multiple outfits.
- Take minimal accessories
You probably only need one sunhat, one bag, one necklace etc…they all take up room!
- Remember that in most destinations you can buy essentials when you get there
If the thought of not taking everything stresses you out, remember there are shops where you’re going! If you find out you don’t have something you need you can buy it when you get there.
- Make a list!
Plan Plan Plan! Make sure you have a list of essentials before you come to pack, it will make life a lot easier!
I hope these tips help you pack more effectively this summer! Happy travels!
