Travelling Light

Going somewhere this summer? I used to take far too many things 'just in case' (and feel embarrassed about how much luggage I had) yet only wear some of them!

"This is NOT working." I grumbled. So I spent some time trying to figure out what did work, and how I could pack less but better.

Using the capsule concept to build your wardrobe really helps; neutrals for core essentials with flattering colours to liven things up. When you're packing, limit yourself to two neutrals eg a dark and a light*, and two colours (one main, one minor).
*a light neutral is good for holidays in the sun

Make sure you have an outfit for each type of occasion: Casual, Smart, and Dressy. Some items will work in two (or three) categories eg well-cut trousers for Smart and Dressy. Consider your trip; is it 50% Casual, 25% Smart and 25% Dressy? Then pack to that proportion.

Separates offer the most flexibility so pack more tops than bottoms (5:1)

Select items you can layer for maximum versatility. Take multi-purpose favourites - the ones you turn to again and again.

Choosing neutrals for footwear means they'll go with whatever you wear. One pair for each type of occasion; pack two and wear one for travelling (make sure they're comfortable as you'll probably do more walking than you expect, especially if you're flying - airports are enormous!)

Accessories don't take up much space yet can quickly take an outfit from Smart to Dressy. Scarves and sarongs are useful because they're so versatile: tied as a dress, a skirt, a top or a jacket. They'll cover your head / arms when sight-seeing or over-dosed on sun, and warm you in chilly air conditioning (or an NZ summer!)

Ideally, opt for things that hardly wrinkle (most creases will fall out if you hang items in the bathroom while you take a shower - it's the steam).

It can make sense to wear your Smart outfit to travel in as: a) you may be upgraded, b) you make a good impression en route and upon arrival, and c) you don't have to pack it (jackets can be bulky).