1. Choose versatile clothing and footwear that fit into your travel activities. Versatile clothing means you pack fewer items, especially if they can do double duty.
2. Stick to simple color schemes and patterns so that all clothing mixes and matches. Separates give you lots of outfit possibilities. Add colorful accents if desired.
3. A packing list can help you organize the items you’re bringing. Critically look at the packing list and see where items can be eliminated or replaced with lightweight or double duty items.
4. Do what I call a “shakedown” a week or so before departure. Lay everything out that’s on your packing list and make sure all clothing coordinates. Try things on if necessary because you may not have access to a full-length mirror during your trip and you want to ensure all your outfits fit well. Edit out any unnecessary items. Note any thing you might be missing.
5. Bring enough outfits to last a few days and plan on laundering clothing. That can mean doing laundry in hotel/hostel sinks, laundromats, or using a laundry service.
6. Lightweight materials dry quicker and take up less space than bulky knits. Look for clothing made from modal, viscose, rayon, tencel, cotton blends or lightweight cotton. Avoid 100% bulky cotton clothing, it takes too long to air dry and takes up too much precious space.
7. Wear bulky items on travel days. Items such as jeans, sweaters, boots, and coats worn on travel days keep your luggage light.
8. Choose clothes that help you layer appropriately for the weather conditions of your destination.
9. Accessories increase your outfit options and keep your looks from being boring. A belt changes a look instantly, so can a scarf. Introduce color and pattern in you accessories if you like.
10. Pack double duty toiletry items. If you are carrying on luggage make sure all toiletry items meet TSA standards.
11. Keep your secondary carry on bag light as well. There’s nothing worse than lugging around a heavy carry-on in addition to your luggage (I’ve been there).
12. Constantly edit and evaluate what you plan on bringing. Look at your packing list after a trip and note any unused items. This will help you pack for your next trip and become a light traveler.
What are your favorite packing light tips?
The visuals above show a suggested wardrobe for a visit to any cosmopolitan city with a typical tourist agenda of sightseeing and dining out.
How To Pack Light And Still Be Fashionable | Dump Your Frump
[…] From the wonderful Travelista: […]
Jewel at Eat.Drink.Shop.Love
Thanks for posting this! I’m headed to New York tomorrow and I still haven’t packed.
jen
That first black dress is something I would die for! Source?
Jen
http://www.1creativemomma.blogspot.com
Abigail
love this! (discovered it via pinterest) great tips you share here. I have to fly more than I would like and for traveling on the plane I always wear loose layers, nothing too tight, so that I’ll be comfortable in the plane. Also, I don’t wear any jewelry (less to worry about going through security or losing!). Instead, I accessorize with light scarves.
Anyway, I’m off to check out the rest of your site but I just love those boots you picture. Where could I find them?
Abigail
josie
Hi Jen,
The dress is from The Outnet -Halston Heritage Split Sleeve Jersey Dress.
http://www.theoutnet.com/product/214519
I chose it for the overall shape and for it’s versatility. Hope this helps!
josie
Hi Abigail,
The boots are by Steve Madden, the style is Intyce (Cognac color). They are $149 on Piperlime.
http://piperlime.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=59771&vid=1&pid=803377&scid=803377002
I love the slight wedge in the heel. A little height but still comfortable. Good luck!
Kate
I’d love to know where the black ballet flats and the oversized black shirt in the second row are from? Thanks!
Sarah
Need from the list above:
-blk scarf
-leopard shirt
-Tan shirt
Where might I find? 🙂
Skeleton Items for Travel | I'm Not Skinny, But That Doesn't Mean I'm Fat
[…] Items for Travel I found this awesome post on Pinterest by Travelista, it outlines the basic items you should take with you when you travel. From basic outerwear to […]
Annette
I’m off on a 4 week trip to the US & Canada with my family in 2 weeks. I have been keeping this in mind while I’ve been accumulating clothes for this trip. My packing is complicated by the fact that it is going to be very cold while we are away & where I’m from it never gets that cold. I’m thinking of just buying clothes for the weather when we get to NYC and buying an extra suitcase. It’s a challenge packing for kids. Packing for me is easy.
Naina @ STYLE'N
This is such a great collage and list of items 🙂
Emily
Thanks for posting! I’m studying abroad in London next summer, and these are great tips!
Kristin
Great tips and great pieces, I need to know where to find them. The khaki jacket, the jeans, the black tee, striped tee, black flats , hat and glasses. It’s all my style and so perfect for alot of my travel. Thanks
the gracious gaze
Brilliant! What a terrific collection you curated here. I am always looking for “simple packing” resources!
xo,
Kim
Travelista’s Guide to Packing Light « Pretty Please Us Blog: Your guide to fashion, beauty, style & everything else in between.
[…] I found this awesome guide by Travelista on How to Pack Light. My goal is to not compromise my outfits and, at the same time, not injure my […]
Heidi
I just posted this idea on my blog. So great!!
http://oliveobserver.blogspot.com/2012/01/mondaymorningmust-linklove.html
Have a Relaxing + Fun Weekend « Kensington Lane
[…] you’re heading out of town for the weekend, here’s an article that can help with packing […]
Marisafaye1
I love all these clothes :))
Chrissy
I love the black shorts above. Can you please tell me where to find them? Thanks!
Fashion Fatale
I love all the items pictured above, would you be kind enough to tell me where I can find the blue scarf and black wallet?
Chloe
Love love the black shorts! Can you please let me know where they’re from or any others that you’ve seen similar?
On second thought, are you able to post a list of where all the items are from??
🙂
Kate
LOVE your style!!! Is there ANY chance you could give a list of what you have above!? And can you please dress me every morning?
I’m specifically obsessed with the plain t and the striped top you have above!!
Emily
LOVE everything listed above! could you please tell me where i can find these items, or something similar?! thanks!!
» How to pack fashionably, but light From Lindley, with Love | Your Body is Perfect Just the Way It Is
[…] first guide, from Travelista.com, is all about packing light while keeping your options […]
Straighten Up and Fly Light: Tips for Easier Airline Travel | The Design Tree by Greentea Design
[…] (Photo: Travelista) […]
kayla
Just wondering the source of the tan leather bag?
Tracy
Would you please include where these items are from? Thanks!
Sunday Saviours #34 | Musings from the Pigeon's Nest
[…] need all the help I can get for my holiday in August! Or maybe just a weekend […]
modchen
“funtional”?
Confessions of a Tired Backpacker « Many The Miles
[…] did manage to find one great article on a blog called Travelista. I especially like the way she uses photos to show different outfit possibilities. Does anyone know […]
laura
chiming in to request sources on these items! i want them all! thanks.
josie
@modchen ha! There’s no spellcheck in GIMP, I’ll have to fix that.
josie
Ok, here’s a list of all the sources by row:
Black Dress- The dress is from The Outnet -Halston Heritage Split Sleeve Jersey Dress.
http://www.theoutnet.com/product/214519
Black Blazer- From TopShop http://us.topshop.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?catalogId=33060&storeId=13052&productId=2538065&langId=-1
Short Trench- From Uniqlo http://shop.uniqlo.com/uk/goods/068674
Leopard Print Blouse- Equipment http://www.net-a-porter.com/product/161227
2nd row:
High Rise Skinny Jean- Rag & Bone http://www.lagarconne.com/store/item.htm?itemid=10226&sid=&pid=
Black Long Sweater-I have to confess I’ve lost track of this one, I believe it’s made by IRO & I found it on The Outnet
Striped Boatneck-LL Bean Signature http://www.llbean.com/llbeansignature/llb/shop/505956?page=knits-tees&subrnd=1&nav=sigsn-21 (no longer available)
Black Jean Leggings-I’ve also lost track of the source but generally I go w/the high rise from Urban Outfitters http://www.urbanoutfitters.com/urban/catalog/productdetail.jsp?id=15886211
3rd Row:
Black Tee- James Perse http://www.net-a-porter.com/product/41090
Black Tank-http://www.generalpants.com.au/store/womens/tops/scoop-long-tank-1000021591.html
Tan Top-Splendid (no longer available) similar: http://www.net-a-porter.com/product/188226
Black Shorts- http://www.farfetch.com/shopping/women/wish-social-short-item-10102460.aspx
4th row:
Steve Madden boots- http://piperlime.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=59771&vid=1&pid=803377&scid=803377002
Sneakers- Bensimon http://www.gravitypope.com/shoes/product/10363-bensimon-f15032c15145-mid
Sandals-Steve Madden http://www.heels.com/womens-shoes/guesst-cognac-leather.html
Black Flats- Cole Haan http://www.zappos.com/cole-haan-air-bacara-ballet-black-nappa
5th Row:
Tote- Nordstrom Brass Plum (no longer available) similar: http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/cesca-jane-weathered-faux-leather-tote/3243226?origin=category&resultback=1385
Square Scarf- similar: http://www.fashion-conscience.com/accessories/hats-gloves-scarves/vintage-silk-scarf-medium-12.html
Black Scarf- http://www.us.allsaints.com/women/scarves/allsaints-wmns-odeon-scarf/?colour=2086&category=630
Tan Belt- http://www.wetseal.com/catalog/product.jsp?productId=48308
Skinny Brown Belt- http://www.barneys.com/Basic-Skinny-Belt/501187149,default,pd.html?cgid=WOMENS_BELTS
Sorry I’ve lost track of where the necklaces and black purse came from
Bracelet- Chan Luu mix wrap bracelet http://www.chanluu.com/Wrap-Bracelets-s/335.htm
Straw Hat-no longer available originally listed on StyleBop
Sunglasses-Ray Ban tortoise shell Wayfarer
Thanks for your interest! This is one of the few graphics I’ve put together and I didn’t expect it to get so much attention. I’ve learned from this one and will make sure to identify and link all products in the future. Check back for more packing tips!
the art of packing | Something Styled
[…] {all about packÂing light via travelista.com} […]
Claudia
Hi I’m going to do business travel and need to know what clothing suggestions you can make according to fabric care for a smart casual lifestyle?
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[…] how to pack, packing light, packing checklist, how to pack 2, how to pack 3 Like what you see? Tell your […]
{pin this} how to pack light via travelista
[…] {https://travelista.com/packing/how-to-pack-light/} […]
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[…] the original copy) is this one. Because of my love for it, I am always scoping out copy cats, like this. But really, I have made copies of the fave one and handed it out to people as a PSA. This is […]
Top 5 –
[…] How To: Pack Light. I have the hardest time when it comes to packing.  Head over to Travelista to learn her […]
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[…] Everything from Travelista’s How to Pack Light […]
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[…] suitcase and okay to bring on the plane. Great travel outfit for warm weather. More wardrobe ideas for packing […]
Keryn @ walkingon travels
So glad I found this. I have the most terrible time packing and I’m headed to Europe for 5 weeks this fall. The kicker is I have to pack myself AND my two little boys into one medium sized suitcase for the entire trip. And of course I want to look fabulous while over there. Thanks for the tips!
MAZ
The advice is great!! But I am just rubbish at packing light! I think to myself ‘Okkay Mazie, I am going to pack light this year’ and it doesn’t work. For example I have just packed for a holiday to France with my 2 children and they seemed to have packed the bare minimum but there is me with my 7 pairs of shoes and 13 t-shirts. It is ridiculous. These instructions are great but I just don’t manage!
Bethaney - Flashpacker Family
This is exactly what I needed to see!
Personally I’d probably ditch the trench coat and sub in a big black cardi. I’d also add in some yoga pants and/or leggings because I need something I can chase a toddler in.
Sasha Lopez
LOVE this post!! I’ve found all these items on the Forever 21 website 🙂 super affordable!
Sarah
I take photographs on my phone of my outfits ahead of time so that when I’m on a trip I remember how I was planning to style something. It makes getting dressed on the trip easier!
Sunday reading | Bite-sized Travel
[…] gear” and super stylish piles of stuff. Travelista suggests my kind of travel outfit and a packing light how-to that is common sense and […]
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[…] Infograph from Travelista.com: […]
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[…] great travel articles to check out : 10 days into a Carry On How to Pack Two Weeks into a Carry On How to Pack Light Getaway Esscentials My favorite way to label mini containers My vacation Pinterest page Share […]
dolores
I went to Switzerland for 3 months – Sept to Dec. Packed one suitcase that I could manage by myself and a light carry on. I’m also a photographer and wanted to bring my camera. Packed very light because I had no winter clothes. When I got there I went shopping – at thrift stores. Bought a coat for $30 that was perfect, made in Germany and also a couple of tops. Also note that bright colors are not fashionable in Europe. Go for the neutrals, accessorize with scarves. Buy those in Europe too. When time to come home I donated the clothing I didn’t want. Some of the clothes were those that I had brought from Florida. So that left room for my NEW clothing!
Remember that there are STAIRS in Europe that you have to negotiate and you will have to carry your suitcase, carryon, etc. You will also have to put your stuff in an overhead bin by yourself. Many times a gentleman will help you, but there are times when it is just you. Plan accordingly.
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[…] From Travelista […]
IsabellesTravel
Great list, will come in handy for my next city break.
Suitcase Fashion Staples : Detours Magazine
[…] with this issue and trying to find a way to balance fashion with efficiency, I have created some guidelines to follow to make sure that I will be able to look stylish wherever I’m going while being […]
5 Finds | Explore
[…] These packing tips. It may not be the most exhaustive list, but after a year of  long distance travel (I’ll have done 13 flights in 2012 , most of those cross country and a few train trips ) I’ve been learning a few things.  Like the beauty of four wheel spinners luggage and that when it comes to packing, less may actually be more. This outline is a good starter for packing light! Source […]
Ben Johnson
great tips, going to start taking photos myself before I travel.
Corey
You can pack lighter by doing laundry on the road. However drying the clothes was a problem, until now.
There is a new invention called the Vapper Dryer which can (really) dry a shirt in under 10 minutes and folds to the size of a newspaper when not in use. More information including a video is available at http://www.laundry-alternative.com/drying.htm
How to Pack for Your Trip - Lookstyle
[…] pack twice the normal amount and don’t even wear half! Â Well, Lookstyle is here to help. Â Check out this article we found with plenty of tips for packing efficiently and lightly for your upcoming trip, then […]
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[…] travelista.com via Belinda @ Found Love. on […]
Guillaume
Pack light sites getting out of date. I am running into carry-on restrictions limiting weight to 12 lbs — not 20 lbs. The case alone can weigh from 5-8 lbs.
Spring Attitude | daily-pins.com
[…] travelista.com Category: Women's & Fashion Tags: accesories, attitude, beauty, clothing, […]
Kristy Lyn
I love this idea…..looking forward to packing for my San Diego trip I’m getting ready to leave on in a few days. As a flight attendant you get really good at packing light but myself it always seems to help finding these wonderful ideas! Curious if you would have the # of possible outfits for this collection? Check out my blog….My Sky View thoughts from the jumpseat 😉 <3 kristy
How to Survive WPPI 2012 - Prep | Dallas Wedding Photography & Senior Portraits - Catie Ronquillo
[…] 3. Pack Light – I was Googling “how to pack light†a couple of months ago because I fall into one of two categories: packing SO light that I forget something or overpacking and the suitcase is bursting. I highly recommend packing light. Las Vegas is in the desert and it’s super dry. You’ll constantly feel thirsty and your skin will get itchy (okay, again, that may just be me), so be sure to dress in layers. It’s February, but in between walking through the casino, the tradeshow, and hanging out with people, you will get hot, cold, and maybe even a little sweaty. Check out this AWESOME post by TRAVELISTA. […]
Mona
Great tips, thank you! I will keep them in mind for my next trip.
Jess- getSNAZZY.com
Great list! I’m glad I found it on Pinterest! I’m your newest follower. I saw that you are in Fort Worth – me too 🙂
Travel tips | Pearl Grey Tea
[…] so 3 bottoms will do, but not inclusive of night wear) i thought these 2 articles are a good read: How to pack light and Ten ways to cut down your […]
James @ The Savvy Backpacker
Wow, this is a great article about packing light!
How do you pack lightly? Is it possible? - Page 27 - FlyerTalk Forums
[…] found this link https://travelista.com/packing/how-to-pack-light/ on how it'll help you,I also had the same problem when traveling and thanks to this article I had […]
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[…] Travelista.com’s guide to packing light. […]
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[…] via: travelista.com […]
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[…] thing’s first – packing for the fashionista. The Travelista blog (by Josie) has loads of basic tips to keep your suitcase light – and she’s all […]
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[…] love blog posts, like this one from Travelista, that share tips for packing along with a packing list. They always feature photos of cute little […]
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[…] service.†For ladies, bring a good skirt or knit wrap dress and sandals or flats for evenings. Travelista gives outstanding packing tips and great visual breakdowns of what to […]
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[…] https://travelista.com/packing/how-to-pack-light/ […]
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[…] How to Pack Light – Travelista […]
How to Pack Light for Travel | ArtspireingArtspireing
[…] Source […]
vc
I definitely like the idea of the shakedown and to think about laundering clothes. I’ve been looking around at different websites of how people travel. I’d probably cut out shoes, but guys tend to have it easier there…flip flops, athletic shoes, and nice, nice pair of dress shoes cover just about everything.
(Packing for) A Weekend Getaway | The Window Shopper
[…] how to pack, packing light, packing checklist, how to pack 2, how to pack […]
Friday Faves...
[…] to pack light and still look […]
gold id bracelets
Pretty! This was an extremely wonderful post.
Many thanks for providing this information.
Pinteresting this week! | sevenlies.net
[…] travelista.com via Karen on […]
Melissa
Love this. But can we talk about the hat?! I really want to take a similar one to Paris, but not sure how to pack it! And wearing it on an overnight international flight isn’t very practical either. Any tips?!
josie
MelissaYes, rather than explaining my method, I found this post that is similar to what I would do.
http://apairandasparediy.com/2014/07/how-to-pack-a-hat.html?crlt.pid=camp.8yq9wajOwh17
Just be cautious, and make sure it is packed tightly to keep the integrity of the shape of your hat. Good luck!
Last Minute Vacation Packing | vanilla & rose
[…] great travel articles to check out : 10 days into a Carry On How to Pack Two Weeks into a Carry On How to Pack Light Getaway Esscentials My favorite way to label mini containers My vacation Pinterest […]
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[…] must read articles are How to Pack Light and 8 Ways to Pack Like a Fashionista. Â The information and advice shared in these article is […]
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[…] DON’T CHECK BAGS. Even with small children, it is possible to simplify your life & bring less on your trips. Each child should be pulling his own weight, literally, from the day he can walk. A small […]
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[…] Boston! This is perhaps the greatest thing that will ever happen to this glasses lover. This packing list, for travel, is pure genius. P.S. Word is it’s going to be almost 70 on Tuesday! This news […]
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[…] the season… for traveling! It is ritual that I always over pack. Use the diagram above to thoughfully plan what to […]
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[…] here via […]
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[…] de Oufit Posts explica cómo con sólo 16 prendas puedes armar más de 40 diferentes atuendos, y en Travelista explican qué tipo de elementos […]
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[…] this picture really helps give a better idea of what kinds of things might work together. This is also really […]
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[…] I think this picture really helps give a better idea of what kinds of things might work together. This is also really […]
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[…] some extensive research on “How to pack light” from some very helpful bloggers and the wonderful Pinterest, I managed to pack rather well […]
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[…] travelista.com […]
Sue
I am so incredibly happy to have found your site! Your ideas are fantastic, and so helpful and doable. Many many thanks to you Josie 🙂
josie
SueThank you so much! That means the world to me 🙂