Let’s face it: packing light is a challenge, even for the experienced traveler. If you’re looking for a few hints to help you lighten the load, consider these:
1. Take a suitcase that's easy to pack, lift and roll
You’ve heard it before: KISS (Keep It Small, Silly!). An airline-size carryon — about 22 inches long by 14 inches wide by 9 inches high — is ample for a week or so abroad, especially if you have access to a W/D (like we do in Cornwall and Scotland). You can find a plethora of lightweight rollable bags at a variety of price points. Cheryl’s favorite is the hard-side Bigger Carry-on from Away; Jean’s is a soft-side Samsonite. “FYI: A hard-side case is squash-, water- and stain-resistant and opens like a book; a soft-side case makes last minute cramming easy and has outer pockets for jackets and travel essentials. Your back, shoulders, neck, hips and clothes will thank you, either way.”
2. Pick a comfy stylish travel outfit
On travel days, dress for comfort and practicality. Sure, you want to look nice. “But let's be honest,” says Johnson. “You're on vacation and you'll sitting in one place for a long time en route. You may love leggings, jeans, jumpsuits and maxi dresses, but they're not ideal for travel — too tight, too voluminous, and too hard to walk in, run to the gate or deal with in the restroom!” Instead, Johnson suggests wearing “slip-on sneakers or closed-toe espadrilles, ankle pants with stretch and a seasonal sweatshirt or jacket.” Cheryl recommends lots of pockets to hold your passport, lip balm, cell phone, mints, etc. so you don’t have to dig into your luggage. Whatever you wear, make sure this outfit work with all your packed clothing so that you can maximize your options in country.
3. Pack 12 pieces of clothing total that mix and match
Johnson says, “The items you pack depend on your trip and preferences, so adjust this list to get your ideal dozen but keep that magic number. A base of neutral colors is best, but don't just think black or navy. Lighter neutrals like khaki, tan, olive and light-wash denim add a warm sunny vibe — and so does white. Add a pop of bright color in a dress or top. In addition to your travel outfit, pack: two bottoms (your combo of pants, jeans, pull-on skirts or shorts); two swimsuits; five tops (your combo of tanks and tees); one day/night T-shirt dress (your preferred length); one loungey nightie that doubles as beach coverup; and one hoodie sweatshirt.” Of course, if you’re not planning on splashing in the English Channel, skip the swimsuits.
4. Take fewer shoes and accessories, more underwear
Good advice: “Estimate two pairs of underwear for each day (so doing laundry isn't always on your mind), and take an extra bra besides the one you wear to travel” (or wear a vest with pockets and skip the bra!). Big tip: “Limit shoes and accessories. We always take too many.” You’ll want comfy shoes for travel and sturdy shoes for exploring possibly rugged terrain.
5. Plan for pieces that multitask
Another hint: “For packing light to be successful you need to get more creative about styling your clothes. In other words, make less do more. The best pieces easily pivot from day to night, hot outdoors to chilly indoors, super casual to polished without looking over or under done.” Keep in mind that the homes we stay in have a washer/dryer, so you can do laundry while we’re there.
6. Roll and pack in pouches like pros do
Lots of ways to do this. Johnson says, “Packing your stuff neatly in separate bags inside your suitcase keeps clothes tidy and wrinkle-free while you travel and after arrival. Make stacks of like items — underwear, tops, bottoms. Then roll or fold everything (your preference) and slip into a bag.” Cheryl uses a bundle wrapping technique that fits a lot of clothing in a small amount of space. In addition, use compression bags (or Ziploc bags) that are easily crammed into luggage corners to help keep you organized. Another Johnson tip: “Pack shoes at the wheel end of your suitcase for weight distribution and balance when the case is upright.”
7. Bring travel-size toiletries and minimal makeup
Transfer your favorite toiletries to travel-size bottles to save space. “Remember TSA rules: If you bring carry-on luggage (see tip number 1), liquids must be under 3.4 ounces and fit into a quart plastic bag. When it comes to makeup, aim for low effort, high payoff.” Thankfully, if you run out of necessaries, we can pop by a Marks and Spencer or a Tesco to resupply.
8. Prep for the grubby stuff and return trip
And, finally, a few hints for the return: “A scented dryer sheet tucked inside the suitcase keeps all smelling fresh. Always keep a spare plastic baggie or two for dirty laundry, wet shoes to prevent dirty soles from contact with clothing. Keep liquid or cream beauty items (including sunscreen) away from clothes and slip them into separate pouches before repacking. Note that altitude and air pressure changes … often cause products to expand, contract, leak or drip. You don't want to arrive home to find your belongings and suitcase a mess.”
We’d love to hear your favorite packing tips. Email them to us at aylitours@gmail.com.
(adapted from Lois Joy Johnson, AARP, 07.01.21)