Friend Friday: Sudden World Traveler {Horrible Packer}

June 03, 2011

By Katrice 


Not too long ago, I was feeling good about having become a savvy packer. I even wrote a guest piece for The Crave Company in December on  efficient packing {Comfy Chic Travel Tips for the Holidays}. I had things down to a science and then I found out I was going to Jamaica for the first time. I fell slightly off the wagon with my sensibilities about taking only what was needed (and my commitment to carry-on traveling). Then, I was invited to Paris ... and the bottom fell out. 

I'm working on a recovery. 

1. When it comes to packing for vacation what’s your mantra?
Before I started traveling more recently, my mantra was to choose a black or brown shoe/handbag base and to work my way out from there. Somehow that has gone out the window and my luggage has been unbearably heavy ever since. So, I guess I'll try to set a new mantra now. The lesson I learned while traveling to Paris is that I know if I'm probably not going to wear something when I'm packing it, so I shouldn't ignore that small voice. Mantra: Be honest and strategic. Pack only what I need and know I'm going to use. 
2. What are your must packs? 
At least two shades of blush -- one bronze and one pink
A satin bonnet
Cardigan
Comfy but chic flats
iPad
Sunnies
3. What are you happy to leave behind?
My laptop because the weight of it has worn me out on my last two trips. I have sworn off taking it on any more trips that I can make due with just my iPad. And my robe; There is generally one for me to use in the hotel room. 
4. Any packing secrets that help you get everything into one suitcase? 
Rolling my clothes tightly works wonders and carrying just one pair of jeans. I'm always able to get enough clothes for four to five days into my carry-on if I'm focused. 

5. Beach reading … what are you taking with you to read in the sand? 
I recently finished Aliya S. King's "Platinum" while in Ocho Rios. My next beach read is "32 Candles" by Ernessa T. Carter as well as my daily browsing of The Cut and Flipboard via the iPad2. 

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1 comments

  1. Great post. I'm a committed carry-on traveler as well, so I'm obsessed with figuring out good packing strategies. This last time when I went on a trip, I imagined that I was hired as a stylist for some celebrity and I had to pull ensembles and pack according to "her" itinerary. Nothing more, nothing less. It worked! LOL
    I'm going to try rolling my clothes next time as well. Thanks!

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