Now, I don't like to blame my gender for my faults but in the case of preparing for a trip, I can't seem to take enough! And yes, I attribute much of it to being a girl! I love clothes, shoes, hair products, make-up and accessories. Even more so, I love taking photographs and want to look cute in my photographs, therefore I tend to over-pack! The trip that suffered from the worse case of over-packing was Hawaii in April 2008. One would think that while visiting Hawaii you only need a few items, maybe sandals, a bathing suit and some sunscreen, yet I seemed to take nearly half my wardrobe. I can sort through items, place them neatly in piles of what I need and what I don't, and yet somehow I always end up packing so much that I have to physically sit on my suitcase to zip it! (Sound familiar ladies?) All this extra baggage can really tie a girl down! Which is why I brought together some ideas to avoid sore arms at the airport and help you lift your luggage over that city curb to get to your hotel!
1. Pick a color theme:
Color coordinate depending on the season or location. Example: When relaxing in the Islands during the summer pick a khaki or white theme, so you can add in bright colors accordingly. When visiting London in the winter, pick a dark, warm petticoat and add patterned scarves with a great pair of black boots. Switching scarves will allow you to add variety in your wardrobe while continuing to keep your suitcase light.
2. Find out what the locals wear:
While traveling, try to blend with the culture. Doing so can allow you to enjoy the culture without being gawked at as an American in floral print, and you'll look good while taking photographs! Example: When going to Paris, no matter what time of year, Parisians seem to always be wearing black! During the summer in the South of France, the locals seem to wear light colored cotton fabrics. Do your homework about a country or culture before you leave, you can find out a lot more than just how to dress.
3. Think like a man:
Men seem to pack the essentials. Try taking only what you need, just like your boyfriend/husband. Instead of packing your blow-dryer (which takes up extra space), plan on using the one in your hotel room. Same goes for shampoo and conditioner do we really need our specific products? Use the hotel products! (They'll even give you extra if you ask!) Try taking only a few outfits, re-use and wash as you go (That's a hard one!)
Releasing the excess in our lives can feel so liberating! Isn't that what traveling is all about, being free to explore?! How can you free yourself when your belongings are consuming you? By following these 3 simple rules, you should be able to Feng shui your packing skills!
BON CHANCE FELLOW TRAVELERS!
-Lindsay
