There’s nothing more discouraging than getting to the airport only to find your suitcase is over the maximum weight and it’s going to cost you an extra fee. You can scramble to move things from bag to the other, or you can learn to pack lighter, more efficiently, no matter the destination.
One thing we hear at Kara Mac Shoes, is that our shoe design really helps limit the number of shoes customers pack for travel. So we decided to help further with a “how to” pack lighter even if you’re going to Europe for two weeks.
Here are some tips to help you pack efficiently:
Consider where you’re traveling. It’s important to remember certain customs in foreign countries. For instance, if you are visiting the Vatican, you must wear pants. In other parts of the world, you may need a specific kind of scarf as a head cover. Be respectful. Plan ahead. You don’t want to miss an experience because you did not. This also goes for weather!
Choose the Right Suitcase and Carry-on Bag
Opt for a lightweight, durable carry-on suitcase or backpack.
Make sure it complies with the airline’s size and weight restrictions.
Easy to maneuver. European travel can mean trains and walking. Make sure you can manage your luggage with ease.
Pack Versatile Clothing
Layering Pieces: Choose clothing that can be layered to adapt to different weather conditions.
Mix and Match: Bring neutral-colored pieces that can be mixed and matched to create multiple outfits or match with a few patterned pieces. The idea is that you should get multiple looks from the few clothes you pack.
Minimal Footwear: Pack one pair of comfortable walking shoes and one pair of dressier shoes or sandals. Kara Mac shoes can help you dress up or down.
Weather-appropriate: Research the weather for your destination and pack accordingly.
Use Packing Cubes. The Roll Method
Use packing cubes to organize your clothing and maximize space.
Or use the Roll Method. By rolling your clothes instead of stacking them, you can create a better fit and get more into your bag.
Limit Toiletries
Pack travel-sized toiletries or transfer products into smaller containers.
Adhere to the 3-1-1 rule for liquids (3.4 ounces or less per container, in a one-quart bag), if you don’t plan to check your bag.
The great thing here is that they will add weight when you depart but can be thrown away or bottles can be brought home empty upon return.
Essential Accessories
Scarf: A lightweight scarf that can serve multiple purposes (warmth, accessory, cover-up) and be worn several different ways.
Sunglasses: UV-protective sunglasses.
Daypack: A small foldable daypack for daily excursions. Select one that is close to the body and keeps your valuables safe.
Hat and sunscreen
Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste.
Electronics and Documents
Minimal Electronics: Bring essential electronics (phone, headphones, charger, e-reader). Things that easily fit in your carry on to get you through the long flight. Once abroad, you should be site seeing and experiencing the country not watching movies in the hotel.
Important Documents: Passport, travel insurance, hotel confirmations, copies of your itinerary, and any tickets, which can be left in the hotel room safe. The State Department also recommends that you make and bring copies of these documents as well as taking photos that are accessible on your phone.
Leave Room for Souvenirs
Pack light enough to leave space for souvenirs you might purchase. Have an idea of the kinds of things you would like to bring back. Visualizing will help you determine how much space you need.
If you’re going to wine country, be sure to budget for the wine to be shipped home. Even the most carefully wrapped bottles can explode in your luggage ruining…everything and leading to major disappointment.
Plan for Laundry
Plan to do laundry during your trip. That’s the great thing about traveling, especially to Europe where this is a common practice. They have mastered packing light because they know they will do laundry.
Pack a small amount of laundry detergent if you’re renting a home and choose to air dry or use hotel laundry services. You can hand wash quite a few pieces in a hotel room bathroom and hang to dry, as well.
Sample Packing List from Our Resident Expert and Founder
When Kara Mac was working as a designer in the fashion industry, she traveled frequently internationally. That’s why we tapped her for her best packing light advice and recommendations.
Clothing:
4-5 tops (mix of short and long sleeves)
2-3 bottoms (mix of pants, skirts, or shorts)
1-2 dresses (optional, if preferred)
1 light sweater or cardigan
1 jacket (waterproof if needed pending weather and time of year)
1 set of sleepwear
6-8 pairs of underwear
4-5 pairs of socks
Footwear:
1 pair of comfortable walking shoes
1 pair of dressier shoes or sandals that are neutral enough to go with anything
Toiletries:
Travel-sized shampoo and conditioner
Soap or body wash
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Sunscreen
Deodorant
Razor
Minimal makeup. Europeans know how to go natural and look good doing it.
Accessories:
Sunglasses
Lightweight scarf
Daypack
Reusable water bottle
Hat or ball cap – for the beach, hiking or general sun protection walking around
Miscellaneous:
Travel umbrella
Small first aid kit
Travel-sized laundry detergent
By following these tips, you can enjoy a comfortable and efficient trip to Europe and still have everything that you need.
コメント