Pack Me Up

Sharing the latest from one of our favorite blogs, Vanilla Extract (who recently got a killer makeover). Today, it’s all about packing for that weekend getaway…

I used to be the girl who waited until the very last second to pack, throwing absolutely anything (and everything) into my bag. Once I got to my destination and sorted through the mess, I was either missing a crucial article of clothing or putting outfits together that just weren’t me. 99 problems, I tell ya, and I was all of them. I finally decided to put a system into place so I could be stress free and enjoy my vacation.

Step 1: Make a List and check it twice

About a week prior to a trip, I start making lists. I actually have an excel spreadsheet that I follow, which includes the usual suspects that I can forget (everything from socks to tylenol). Then, I begin listing out outfit ideas based on what we have planned. I always figure two outfits per day and typically break the list down as follows: Friday Day/Friday Night/Saturday Day/Saturday Night – you catch my drift.

Step 2: Plan all outfits

Some outfits seem so good in my head, but when I try them on they don’t always translate. This is when I try on everything I’ve written down and make adjustments. I literally plan the outfit out as if it’s the day I’m wearing it – shoes, accessories, hair, the whole bit. I snap a quick photo of each look so I can refer back to it, if necessary. That way, I’m spending next to no time in front of the mirror while I’m on vacation and soaking up every last bit of whatever city we’re visiting.

Step 3: Pack it up, pack it in

I burrito roll everything. It’s a major space saver. Like, maaaajor. You’ll never pack folded clothes again. You’ll be able to pack so much more and avoid annoying fold lines in the process. When it comes to shoes, I always back them in dust bags. My Catalina bag from Lo & Sons has a bottom zipper pocket perfect for shoes. Beach towels and toiletries also work in this pocket. Then, once on vacay, I use the pocket at a place to store dirty clothes. No cross contamination up in here. I keep jewelry pretty low-key when traveling. I prefer dainty pieces because they’re light and ty(ically work with any outfit. All pieces get packed into cloth bags.

Step 4: Add in last minute items

All makeup and toiletries get packed last because I’m usually using them until we leave. I also check THE LIST again – chargers, cameras, computer, phones, and a good attitude to name a few.

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