Pack lightly, and carry a credit card
I’m limiting myself to one suitcase. One backpack. One tote.
I will freely admit I am not the world’s best packer. I tend to bring a lot of things I don’t need (including super cute but blister-inducing shoes and a clutch in every color) and forget key items (contact lenses and extra underwear are among my worst forgets). The only thing I obsessively check to make sure I don’t forget is my straightener, my credit card and my passport. Don’t judge about the straightener: there is no ponytail option for short hair.
The longest trip I’ve taken up until now was six weeks. I packed for a summer in northern France as if I were spending the summer in Sacramento. However, instead of 110 degree weather, I was greeted with rain. And more rain. Most of my sundresses went to waste, and I was forced to invest in a quality umbrella and heavy sweater.
I’m determined to do a better job this time, but I already feel like I’ve failed. The source of my stress? My destination itself. I have long come to terms with the fact that the French are innately more stylish than me- and most Americans. Even when I take the time to plan out an outfit, I still feel sloppy and unfashionable next to the perfectly chic French woman. I can’t accessorize. I wear flipflops pretty much all the time. I still haven’t figured out how to put on eyeshadow.
My packing plan so far? Six months worth of contacts and underwear (I’ll be double-checking those this time), and lots and lots of scarves. Even Samantha Brown believes in power of scarves–she calls them her “favorite accessory.” Lightweight, easy to pack and an instant flash of color to my jeans and neutral V-neck staple outfit. My trusty straightener, and a cardigan and set of earrings that seem to go with everything. Plenty of sundresses, since then I don’t have to worry about coordinating tops and bottoms! Be prepared to see a lot of outfit repeats in upcoming photos- but I guess that’s better than trying to lug an extra suitcase through the airport by myself.
What are your tips for long-term packing? What do you wish you had left behind? What do you wish you had taken with you? And…do those space bags really work?
