Thursday, July 30, 2009

The Proper Packing Guide


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As a girl that spends a lot of time travelling, I felt that packing would be the perfect topic to tackle today. Packing a suitcase is of vital importance for anyone travelling because; after all, no one wants to be stuck in a far away town or foreign country without their most important things!
There’s an art to packing a suitcase and I’ve mastered being able to do it quickly. It can be a very overwhelming process with all of the laundry and thinking through that needs to take place. But, don’t let the scare of the ordeal frighten you into throwing random clothing into a bag! This will leave you with mismatched outfits, random clothing, and the possibility of forgetting what you really need to bring with you.

The first thing you need to do is consider where you’re going. Check the weather and consider the activities you’ll be partaking in while on vacation. If you’re planning on going to the Alps, then there’s no sense in packing cute pumps and your favorite new summer dress. Likewise, if you’re spending time in the Hamptons, why take a coat?

Carry On


The carry-on bag you take is incredibly important, especially if you’re flying. But even if you’re driving or taking a train to your destination, you need to have a medium sized bag that is with you at almost all times. This should carry everything to keep you entertained while in flight, of course, but also pack everything you absolutely cannot live without or is expensive, in case your suitcase is lost or gets on the wrong plane.
Zune, iPod, mp3 player
Laptop if necessary
Cell Phone Charger
Camera
Medications
One top
Pair of Jeans
Underwear
Sweater
Some sort of pouch to keep trip collage materials in (tickets, stubs, etc.)

Suitcase

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Your suitcase should be big enough to fit all that you take but well-sized so your belongings stay in place without falling around and getting beat up. Always pack extra clothing, but don’t stuff your suitcase because typically you will come back from vacation with more than you left with! Another thing to keep in mind while packing is the aesthetic look of suitcase. I find it incredibly helpful to have a bag that sticks out when on a luggage carousel. Bright or patterned bags are good for this reason.
Basic Dresses – Casual dresses are a travelling essential. For fall travelling, throw on a cardigan and a pair of leggings, plus accessories. A dress that is made from fabric that doesn’t wrinkle is a huge plus.
Tops – tanks, cute shirts – Those who know me are aware of the fact that I hardly ever wear t-shirts. These may be easy to travel in because they’re so casual and comfortable, but it’s very easy to look bland while wearing one. Pack tees if you can accessorize them well. Be sure to put in cute tops that work for day-to-night looks or to throw on with jeans.
Jeans – Denim is INCREDIBLY important always. Be sure to pack your shorts, skinnies and flares. They are another travel essential because they can be good for day-to-day activities with lots of walking, or for nightwear when paired with heels.
Skirts – If you have room, skirts can be very handy to bring with you on vacation. They’re an easy and comfortable fix. Try to stick with basic neutrals that can be paired with your tops.
Cardigans – I cannot stress the importance of cardigans enough! You know the feeling of being cold in a theater or outdoors at night. They’re small enough to put in your day bag and a very cute way to layer an outfit.
Jacket or Coat – Try to pack a cute a versatile jacket or coat that is easy to layer. You’ll need it.
Too Many Pairs of Underoos – self explanatory.
Swim Suit – Of course this is a little area-specific, but if you’re going to be staying in a hotel with a pool or going to the beach, of course you’ll need your swim suit!
Sleepwear – Usually you’ll need to bring a few sets of shorts and tanks, or whatever you enjoy sleeping in. I almost always forget to pack them, and trust me! It’s important!
Shoes – Pumps, ballet flats, sandals, boots - For travelling, you’re going to need a nice, trendy pair of pumps that go with almost anything you packed. You never know when you’ll need to quickly dress up, which a quality pair of heels will do. Ballet flats are crucial while on trips, particularly on days that you need to do walking. They’re a chic alternative to tennis shoes. Sandals are important as well. More than one pair will come in handy. Anything from hip studded slip-ons to flip flips are nice. Also, since fall is approaching, boots are important. They may be a better choice to wear on your travel day because they take up lots of room in a suitcase.
Day Bag – When you’re out and about, you need a bag to put many things in, such as your camera, jacket, notebook, wallet, and anything else you may be carrying with you. Use a stylish bag that zips, because large bags are particularly easy to steal from when you’re travelling.
Smaller Bag or Wristlet – Instead of taking your large travel bag when you go out for the night, be sure to pack a simple wristlet or small clutch to keep your vitals in. It’s easy to keep track of, but still refrain from keeping your important information in it while on vacation.
Sunglasses – This is a season specific choice, but they’re very necessary when participating in outdoor activities with lots of sun. Sunglasses are very easy to lose, so it’s best to pack two cheap pairs. Target?
Accessories – versatile earrings, rings, bracelets, and necklaces to dress up any outfit.

Beauty

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Beauty Bags are imperative for all female travelers. Having a separate bag (which could be located inside your suitcase, of course) for your beauty products is needed. Who wants all their beauty products to accidentally open and ruin all of your clothing? This has happened to me, and trust me, I learned my lesson.
Makeup Necessities – It’s always best to not travel with loose powders because they get very messy once you open them, but most of your other makeup and brushes should be travel-friendly. Every girl has different needs as far as makeup goes, but be sure to pack your foundation, blush or bronzer, eye shadow, eyeliner, mascara, brushes and makeup remover.
Skin Care – Sunscreen, cleanser, moisturizer – Don’t ever make up excuses for not wearing sunscreen. Ever. I wear it on a daily basis and it’s vitally important. After all, tanning now is classified as a “Group 1 Carcinogen.” Cleansers and moisturizers are equally important for keeping your skin looking fresh when you’re not on your daily eating or exercising routine, as well.
Hair Care – Shampoo, Conditioner, Hair Spray, Heat Protector – I always forget my shampoo and conditioner, so try to keep it in mind! Be sure to pack all you need to style your hair, such as brushes or bobby pins.
Flat Iron or Curling Iron


What do you do differently when packing for vacation? Any other tips or tricks? Leave a comment!

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