How to Pack Light

I left Morocco where it was regularly a warm 80 degrees,.. only to enter what seems like the Philly tundra. I can’t leave my house without several layers of clothing and even then, I’m still freezing my butt off. But I digress…

If you read my last issue (and I’m sure you did), I’m continuing that conversation with some tips on how to pack light. Some of you may be tempted to pack your entire wardrobe into your luggage because human beings like options. Don’t do it! Not only is it a hassle to have to check in luggage at the airport, but some airlines like Frontier will charge you an extra $50-$90 dollars for each bag you check in. 🙄 It’s robbery!

How to Pack Light:

Only bring essential clothing

While this may seem tedious, plan your outfits ahead of time for each day of your trip. Yes, even your underwear. 😆 This will definitely lighten your load and give you a bit of extra room for souvenirs on the way back... if that’s your thing.

Put items in smaller bottles

TSA recommends travel-sized bottles of 3.4 ounces or less for your shampoo, conditioner, shower gel etcetera. Most people I know don't end up using the entirety of the 3-ounce bottles. I recommend getting the 1 ounce bottles to free up some space.

One more thing about bottles…travel-size perfume, usually in the form of a spray, are available at most makeup stores like Sephora and Ulta. Even if you don’t see the travel size of your favorite perfume on the shelf, they might still have it, so ask an employee.

Packing cubes

Just search packing cubes on Amazon and you can find a ton of options. Some packing cubes have compression capabilities and will help you limit the amount of clothes, food etc. that you bring on the flight.

1 pair of shoes… 2 pairs max

Shoes take up a lot of space so the fewer pairs of shoes you bring the better. Bring a pair of versatile shoes that you can walk in, but also look nice enough to go out to a restaurant or bar. I know some love heels, so opt for thicker heels instead (i.e. not stilettos). You might need to walk on cobblestone and a sprained or twisted ankle could ruin your trip. Flip-flops take up very little space, so stick those in your bag when you can.

Versatile clothes

Remember that you can layer your clothing. Scarves are light and can be used for warmth when you don’t want to lug a coat around. To save room in your bag, you can also wear all of your desired layers of clothing to the airport. You’ll look weird, but they can’t charge you extra for something that’s on your body. Just a thought.

What tricks do you use to pack light?