Packing Light

I like to think I've always been a light traveller, from sleepovers to holidays, yet packing poses a problem for everyone. I'm not too sympathetic to people who can't fit all their hair products in, don't want to choose between hair curlers or straighteners or don't understand how 10 bikinis is too much, but I can sympathise with wanting to take luxuries in moderation. Here are some simple rules I've picked up from experience to make packing a stress-free(ish) experience...

1. Start with the basics
I know I said I like a few luxuries, but its easier to start with essentials then add in extras if you have space, rather than the other way around. When you consider all you REALLY need is a few pairs of underwear, shorts, a t-shirt and a bar of soap then everything else feels like more of a treat!


2. One soap to rule them all
Toiletries are a tricky one, especially if you're only taking hand luggage. My solution to this is keep it simple and keep it solid! There are a lot of all-purpose soaps on the market which act as shampoo, shower gel and clothes detergent, which are great for travelling. But here's a tip - it's all soap! A solid bar of soap goes a long way and can be used for washing clothes and even hair if you get desperate. If you're not sure about this theory, some shops sell multi-purpose soap/shampoo bars (ask the shop assistant what it can be used for to set your mind at ease).


3. Make it multifunctional
If you can take one item that does many jobs, take it! My personal favourite in this category is a sarong. Far from a lousy fashion item of the '90's, a sarong is a traveller's best friend. It can be a towel (honestly!) both for lying on the beach and drying yourself AND it's quick-drying itself. It can be a top, a dress and a skirt! It's also small enough to pop in your bag so if you need a cover up for entering a cultural attraction, such as a place of worship or just to keep off the sun.
4. Mix and match wardrobe
When it comes to clothing, it may be obvious if you're going to need to wrap up warm or want to live in a bikini. But often there's a possibility that things could go either way, so it's best to be prepared! Consider making the cold weather clothes an addition to the warm ones. For example, pack a pair of leggings to wear under your shorts or dress if it starts to get nippy. Take a really warm jumper that can be paired with anything else you're taking. If you try and take clothes that all match with each other, then its easier to make more outfits for different occasions. Pack a necklace or earrings that can turn a daytime outfit into a dressier one. Remember that if you are caught out, you can buy something at your destination.

5. Wear it if you can
If it won't go in your bag, can you wear it? There is the possibility of looking like you've gained 8 stone if you go mad on this one, but the best idea is just to wear the heaviest stuff. If you're going walking and need to take wellies or walking boots, wear them! A pair of flip flops weighs nothing and can slip in spare luggage space so don't bother wearing them on the plane. Swallow your pride and tie your jumper around your waist - this saves space, weight and is handy when the plane gets chilly!


Happy Packing!