What type of travel packer are you?….The last minute packer, the prolonged packer (you know suitcase in the hall for 3 weeks!), the chronic over packer, the serial traveller who has their capsule wardrobe down pat.

Travel packing can be a daunting task and can take away from the excitement of the trip. especially if it’s an overseas trips with different climates and activities. Where do you start! I love helping  my clients pack for their holidays and goodness do a love a packing cube and creating a capsule travel wardrobe based on weather, itinerary, luggage allowance and duration.  With the holidays approaching I would love to share some of my tips. This can be applied across the family.  Good luck and happy holidays!

 

TRAVEL ESSENTIALS

Suitcase: Make sure your luggage is in good condition and within airline size and weight restrictions. I recommend light weight suitcase to allow for more kilos for your clothes! Don't forget to weigh it before you head to the airport to avoid charges

Packing Cubes: My number one packing essential Packing cubes are a great way to organize your clothing and maximize space in your luggage. They also help you keep things tidy during your trip. No more messy suitcase.

Moldable Carry on bag that can be used as a backpack or other use during your stay.

—————————————————————————————————-

THE 5 RULES OF PACKING

1. Choose clothes that mix and match easily

The easiest way to pack and feel like you have multiple outfits is to select items that mix and match effortlessly in the same colour palette I recommend you think about your outfits, in terms of maximising each item you choose to pack and how many different ways you can wear it. There is definitely a place for pattern of course but make sure it goes with other items in your capsule travel packing.

If you're traveling to a destination with variable weather, pack items that can be layered to adapt to changing conditions.

When  you choose to pack items that  mix and match multiple ways, you will save time, space and ensure that you wear everything in your suitcase.

2. Be strict on your shoes - rule of 3

You only really need a maximum of 3 pairs of shoes. I know I know but seriously this is my tried and tested rule. Trainers, 2 x slides, one formal and one casual or swap one pair of slides for heels. It is amazing how much weight shoes can take up. Edit Edit Edit.

3. Accessory Edit

Coordinate each look down to the jewellery, shoes and bags. This helps you pack less, as all accessories you bring have a place within your outfits. Avoiding the tempatation to add in that extra bag or pair of shoes!

4. Try It all On

Try on all outfits before you pack, so you are confident that everything in your suitcase is going to be worn, you like and feels great!

5. Snap it before you pack it

Photograph each outfit. A great reference point for when you are away, taking the stress out of getting dressed in the morning

——————————————————————-

PACKING HACKS

Packing Hacks to simplify your journey and keep your baggage allowance in check.

++Pack spare clothes

If worst comes to worst and you’re stuck without your checked luggage, you’ll be thankful you packed a spare set of clothes (part of your planned wardrobe) in your carry-on bag

++Wear heavier items

Heavy shoes or Jackets...wear them on the plane don't pack them! This saves room in your case for other items and will reduce your baggage weight.

++Use the space inside your shoes

Maximise space by packing items inside your shoes, socks, underwear, this helps keep the shape of the shoes too.

++Pack heavy items over the wheels

If you’re packing a small bag with wheels, load the heavier items over the wheelbase. This will help prevent your bag from toppling over and make it easy to manoeuvre through the airport.

++Decant cosmetics

Bottles that are two-thirds empty can end up wasting a lot of space and taking up too much weight. Decant your cosmetics into smaller containers if appropriate. You could mention the Well Store  for make up containers etc and also the Walls Pharmacy

++Pack high-value items in your carry on

High-value items like travel documents, sunglasses, jewellery and cash are all best kept with you, especially as some of them may not be covered by your travel insurance if packed in checked luggage. You could mention the Eye Piece

++Separate your devices and liquids in carry on

Security screening 101. Yes I know we all know this ...but do we do it? Pack your laptop at the top of your carry on or in its own compartment so it’s easy to remove when required. Same with your liquids. I suggest the family follows this rule too  definatley helps keep everyone calm if you are running late!