Pack Smarter—Not Harder
The only way to carry on without lost luggage stress on a trip is to have a carry-on-only packing strategy! Whether it’s for work or for pleasure, packing for a trip can be a challenging task, especially when it comes to bringing enough of THE RIGHT clothes while not overpacking. In this resource article, Natalie guides you through a step-by-step approach for packing smarter—not harder!
One of the most satisfying small things in life for me is a well-thought-out, successful, carry-on-only packing plan! There’s something about fitting many days’ worth of clothes in a small space—and still having more options than I need that gives me a high and great sense of satisfaction!
Step 1: Prep Before You Pack
First, I want to talk about the fact that, unless you are going on a special trip with special clothing requirements (e.g., something outdoors or modesty requirements of a country), you DON’T need to go out and buy new clothes just for the trip.
In fact, it’s good to wear what you already have—because you KNOW what you like to wear every day and what pairs with what. For most trips, you should be wearing what you know works. This takes out a lot of the guessing and stressing game of packing.
Now, with that in mind, before you mindlessly start pulling things out of your drawers and closet, do the following steps:
List the days you will be traveling and the itinerary (e.g., Monday daytime: Meetings and panel; Monday evening: client dinner)
Check and write out the weather forecast for each day (as far out as possible)
Decide how you want to show up for this trip, particularly if it includes big itinerary events like a celebratory dinner or a major speaking engagement
If the trip includes one of the above special events, pick those “hero” outfits first. You’ll want to work the rest of your packing strategy around these preferred looks
To help you with this important preparation work, download our free wardrobe packing plan worksheet:
Now that you are organized and in the right mindset for the upcoming trip, it’s time for the practicalities of putting all of it together. Before you put anything in a suitcase, lay out each of the following categories:
Step 2: Start with (and Limit) Shoes
Begin your packing process by selecting the shoes you'll need for your trip. Shoes tend to take up the most room in your luggage. Choose pairs that are versatile, you have worn before, and can complement multiple outfits. Consider the activities you'll be engaged in and the expected weather conditions. For pleasure trips, I like a daytime sneaker, a dressier evening shoe, and maybe one smart-casual flat. Remember to consider the terrain you will be walking on. For example, in a recent trip to Lisbon, I learned that the city is very hilly and full of cobblestone—but also mostly walkable. As such, I made sure my evening shoe choice was sturdy enough for these considerations.
Aim to bring no more than three pairs of shoes to limit the space they occupy in your luggage. If you can, wear your bulkiest pair during travel to save space!
Step 3: Bottoms that Coordinate with Shoes
Build up from the shoes, and choose bottoms that work with multiple shoe choices and can be mixed and matched with different layters and tops to create various outfits. For me, it tends to be easier in this category to opt for neutral colors that can easily coordinate with multiple tops. For some, you might prefer fun skirts, and then you’ll likely want to make your tops neutral.
Step 4: Choose Your 3rd Layers Wisely
Now you’ll want to pack the next-bulkiest items, your third layer (i.e., jackets, blazers, cardigans). Again, select options that can be paired with different bottoms. Consider the versatility of each layering piece and how they can be dressed up or down. Layering is an excellent way to create multiple outfit combinations while keeping your packing pared down.
Step 4: Add Thin Tops
Fill in the outfit gaps by picking a variety of thin tops that don’t take up a lot of luggage real estate. I usually select T-shirts and other thin knits for the day and light silk blouses for nicer evening events. Again, choose pieces that can be easily mixed and matched with your bottoms, shoes, and your chosen third layers to work for the day or evening activities.
Step 5: Versatile Dresses or Jumpsuits
If you're planning to bring dresses or jumpsuits, pack them after the layers. If you run cold, make sure they work with your chosen third layers, as well. Another hack I like to do is pack a maxi shirt dress that can also double as a third layer over a top and bottom and, when seasonally appropriate, a slip dress that can be worn many different ways and takes up the tiniest amount of room in my suitcase.
Step 6: Add Flare
Accessories like jewelry, scarves, and belts are a great way to add pop and personality to your outfits without taking up a lot of room. I love adding a few of my favorite thin silk scarves to my suitcase that can switch up an otherwise-neutral outfit to add extra “Natalie” pizzazz.
Note, don’t forget undergarments, many of which can be rolled and stuffed into your shoes!
Step 7: Small Handbags
Choose bags that can fit into your larger personal item or suitcase. I often pick a small crossbody that works for the daytime or evening, as well as a waterproof belt bag for any inclement weather daytimes. Tip, you can put some of your toiletries in one of these bags for added packing efficiency.
Step 8: Mix, Match, & Photograph
Once you have laid out all of your pieces, mix and match your various outfit combinations and photograph them. We personally like to try them on to make sure we feel great and start to picture ourselves wearing them in the upcoming trip setting.
It’s easy to forget the plethora of looks we can make the moment we get to our destination and open our suitcase to decide what to wear. Pre-styling and photographing looks allows you to not only document all of your choices ahead of time but also ensures you have packed enough of what you need for each item on your itinerary and that you don’t have any gaps in your wardrobe plan.
Step 9: Enjoy Making Memories
Now you’ve packed strategically, and you don’t have to worry about lost luggage headaches or what you are going to wear. It’s time to embrace what this trip is all about—making memories, nailing the business trip, and focusing on whatever you set out to do!
Packing not your thing? We LOVE a good strategic packing session either in your NYC home or virtually. We’re always happy to help you check this item off your travel prep to-do list!
Check out Natalie’s Instagram highlights under “Travel” for a step-by-step visual guide to packing strategically.