4 Tips to Pack All You Need in One Carry On
After working on cruise ships for a few years, I got used to packing my whole life into a couple of giant suitcases. I learned how to make clothes multitask for me, and those tips and tricks make life a lot easier when traveling nowadays. In a couple weeks I’m heading to London, the beach in Portugal, and Dublin for 12 days. A lot of folks are wondering how I’m going to fit everything in a carry on, so I put together a quick look at what I’m taking and why I chose those items.
The following tips are suited for a spring/summer trip. But the same strategy applies to other seasons and climates as well, just change the type of clothing.
Choose a color scheme: Pick a few coordinating colors that can easily be worn with each other rather than trying to fit pieces that only match one other item.
Layer it up: Bring long-sleeved button up shirts and lightweight tunics that can be worn as layers, alone, or as beach coverups. Sun dresses can be worn alone or with an open shirt if it’s chilly.
Accessorize: Scarves, belts, and jewelry are great for changing up the look of an outfit without taking up much space.
Day to evening: Choose shoes that are comfortable and casual during the day, but can pass for a more polished or fun look in the evening. Not all shoes have to work double duty, but sparkly sandals and wedges are great day to evening options.
Not quite everything I’m taking on my upcoming trip is shown below. I’ll be bring along a couple sports bras and leggings for yoga (also will wear leggings on plane) and a spring jacket. Of course, skincare, make up, hair items, and all the other bits and bobs will have to be included as well. But between by carry-on and my bag, I’ll manage it all. I’ll post another blog with my toiletry tips before I go.
Naturally, I want to look good while traveling, but I don’t want to risk loosing my baggage, lugging it around, or paying extra if I can avoid it. Pack strategically and you’ll save yourself some travel drama and likely won’t have to wear the same thing more than a couple times. And if need be, there’s usually a laundromat or a laundry services around if you scout it out.
