I love packing.
I have waytoomuch fun trying to whittle down my belongings and pack the least amount of stuff possible. There’s so much joy in experiencing the world lightly, with less stuff in tow. It always reminds me that it’s not about what I bring, it’s about what I experience.
Aaron and I are heading to the beach this week for some much needed R&R — so I thought I’d chat about how I approach packing + what I’m bringing.
I approach packing for a trip the same way I approach creating a capsule:
I check the weather.
I make a mental list of my activities, making sure to note special events, dress codes, etc.
I settle on a color palette.
And then I start packing with what I already have in my closet. Because nothing brings out Shopping Caroline like packing for a trip.
See, when I travel, I find that I want to be this different, aspirational version of myself — and I want a wardrobe to match. But … after the trip, I know I’d just be left with clothes that don’t really work for my regular life + style.
So I try to fill up my suitcase with things I already own first.
Then — oops! — I guess there’s no room for that gauzy dress I was tempted to buy. ;)
Here’s what I’m packing:
• Chambray shirt: I wasn’t planning on bringing this shirt, but it’s just too versatile to leave at home — I can style it on it’s own or layer it over a tee if I get chilly. I can also wear it as a pool cover up — unbuttoned + knotted at the waist + swimsuit top peeking out + high waist jean shorts.
• Crop tee (old) / similar (made in USA) / similar in solids colors (made ethically): Hello sightseeing outfit: crop tee + high waisted denim shorts + sneakers. And I can always add my chambray shirt if I get chilly.
• Stripe tank / similar / similar with tight fit (made in USA) / similar in longer length (made in USA): For drinks at night, I can pair it with my black shorts and dressy sandals.
• Silk-like tank (old) / similar (made in USA) / similar with lace up detail (made in USA) : While real silk is too delicate to take to the beach, this plain black silk-like tank does just fine and looks fancy. I can tuck it into my black shorts for a romper-like look, like I did two years ago.
• Beach bag (old) / similar
• Dressy shorts (old) / similar (made in the USA): Hot days, you don’t scare me. At least not since I discovered these dressy + soft + flowy shorts. I’ll pair them with … just about anything in my bag.
• Denim shorts (old) / similar (made in the USA): Perfect for sightseeing or a pool cover-up.
• Straw hat: Now, you may be wondering how I’m going to pack this structured hat in my suitcase. This tutorial to the rescue!
• Mix and match swimsuits / high neck swim top (eco-friendly) / bikini bottoms (eco-friendly) / leopard swim top (old) / high rise bottoms (eco friendly)
• Maxi dress (old) / similar / similar for less / similar for less (made in the USA): This will be my fancy dinner dress.
• Midi dress (old) / similar / similar for less: A simple black dress is amazing on it’s own, but I can also add casual vibes by tying my chambray shirt around my waist + adding my straw hat.
• Sneakers / similar with slimmer fit: Thank you, comfortable sneakers, for keeping my feet happy while sightseeing.
• Dressy sandals: Repeat after me: Two inch heel. Bless my precious feet — I can do a two inch heel! I’ll pair these with my midi dress or my dressy shorts.
• Sunnies
And finally, a few things that aren’t pictured: Yoga pants + jacket for the airport. Toiletries. PJs. And my trusty travel steamer — I never travel without it.
Are you traveling any time soon? What are your favorite packing tips?
xo
AMAZING TASTE! I LOVE HOW YOU LAY OUT YOUR CLOTHES. I AM RECENTLY A PART-TIME BLOG WRITER MYSELF, BASED IN ATHENS GREECE, AND I AM ALWAYS INSPIRED BY YOUR POSTS AND YOUR PICTURES. SO GLAD THAT YOU ARE BACK!
A chambray shirt is like the one thing I ALWAYS have on me! IRL or an aspirational jet-setting trip. It is perfect, always.
Also, my OCD loves a perfectly packed suitcase. It’s a beautiful thing.
This “See, when I travel, I find that I want to be this different, aspirational version of myself — and I want a wardrobe to match.” So much this.
Each time I have went for a trip abroad I go and return with this idea in my head of what I should/want to wear. And it lasts for only about 2 weeks after I return, then I fall into my old habits and old clothes and, well you get the picture. i have never thought of it begin my aspirational self, but that is exactly what it is :-)
On a recent weekend away I did manage to pack way less than usual and pack clothes that I actually wear on a normal day at home – and it worked great!
Thanks for a great post!
Oh, I make also a list but I have to admit I don’t like packing :)
xx from Bavaria/Germany, Rena
http://www.dressedwithsoul.com
We aren’t traveling anywhere soon, BUT my husband’s family is visiting from Spain for 10 days, so we are giving them our house and temporarily moving in with my parents. My husband, our four kids ages 6 months to 11 years, and I! This is no small feat, and I’ve been having nightmares about packing for all of us! Fortunately, my tween athletic daughter has a capsule wardrobe and so does my husband. I live in yoga pants because that simply fits my lifestyle, and those streeeeetchy pants make me feel less terrible about still holding onto the baby weight. Unfortunately, the baby’s cloth diapers and always soaked-through clothes mean she’ll be the heaviest packer of us all! All of my son’s allergy-free foods and keeping them convenient, healthy, not overly processed, and without sugar is another challenge. Packing capaules are such a great idea, you just inspired me to blog about it for my family! Wish me luck on this crazy 10-day ride! xoxo
Now I am even more impatient for the arrival of summer, this has just wetted my appetite for some clothes, the beach and casual summer living. We had one day this week when I wore shorts, but now it’s back to cashmere and jeans sigh!!! Hope you have a wonderful trip
First, I enjoy this packing list and approach. I always limit myself to carry-on only for long trips (doesn’t matter how many countries!), but I essentially always overpack for short trips. Picking a color palette and sticking to it might help in the future, so thank you for the suggestion.
Second, at first when I realized you were blogging at a slower pace than last time I was a little bummed out, just because I wanted more Un-fancy *right now*, lots more! But I feel like the pace of your blogging perfectly patches the pace of your general approach: curate great pieces and looks without a huge rush, focusing on quantity and not quality, while enjoying the time in between.
Now I feel like I can think on and apply some aspects of your posts before another one comes out. :) Not sure if that was your intention, but it’s a really nice effect.
Ack, perfectly matches* not perfectly patches lol
Looks like this will all fit in a carry-on bag. What is your favorite carry-on bag to use for quick trips? Do you use a suitcase, tote, or duffel bag style? You always have such quality clothes and accessories, so I’d love to know what quality bags you like for travel!
splurge on a Rimowa Salsa Deluxe, it is worth every penny. I can pack 10 days of clothes and shoes in it (summer), 5-7 days in winter. Its a tad bit larger than international carryon, but I’ve never had an issue getting it overhead bin (can be heavy with bulky shoes). It is a thing of beauty.
http://a2.zassets.com/images/z/1/2/9/2/5/0/1292505-p-MULTIVIEW.jpg
I am heading to San Francisco and Napa in three weeks. I have already been brainstorming packing and you are totally right about wanting to shop for a vacation. I have definitely been browsing, but I don’t think I truly need anything. Except I do need a pair of black tights as I ripped my last pair a few weeks ago. Since it will probably be chilly for us, I pretty much plan on bringing a couple pairs of jeans and a handful of tops to mix and match. And a jacket! I am also going to be bringing a black and white striped dress to wear with the previously mentioned tights for dinner. And I will be picking out a skirt to bring as well. I also think I should invest in that travel steamer! It would be so helpful for me and for my husband.
I can totally relate to the pre-trip shopping urge and the post-trip shopping regret. Here’s something that helps me overcome it. I buy a piece of jewelry or a scarf while on vacation. It gives me that “special shopping” lift, but with the added bonus of buying something that’s linked with happy memories of the trip. Now, when I wear my shell ring from Ocean City or my polka dot scarf (with hidden mickeys) from Disney I don’t have buyers regret, I relive that good vacation vibe. :) Enjoy the beach!
Hi Caroline,
I am so happy you are back! I subscribed to your blog when you were on hiatus, and was so inspired by it that I too have created a capsule wardrobe, much to the shock of my husband and friends…and I love it! This post couldn’t have come at a better time for me as I’m about to pack for a week in Mexico…thank you for the advice on what to pack!
This. Is. Awesome. I always stress about outfits for the beach/vacation and tend to over-pack, but your list makes it feel so much more manageable and approachable. Thank you for sharing!
I know exactly what you mean about wanting to be a different version of yourself on vacation. Making a packing list is a good way for me to see what my true favorites are in my capsule. We’re heading to New Orleans tomorrow, so I’ve been whittling down my wardrobe, trying to pack light but also account for all the different activities and unpredictable weather! Always a fun challenge :) I try to include lots of layers and basics that can be worn with everything else.
That’s crazy! Before I travel, I also want to be this other, aspirational version of myself. But it’s getting better :) I actually was inspired by you to start the Capsule Wardrobe and it helped me IMMENSELY when I moved to Italy last year. Thank you for continuing to inspire <3
http://www.thebusinessofblooming.com
I love this, as usual! I might use this as inspiration for my entire casual dressing this summer :)
Hi! I just recently started following your blog because I saw some commonalities in our way of approaching wardrobe building:) Like you, I’m obsessed with packing as little as possible and yet still be fully prepared and looking good! Always working on building the maximum efficiency wardrobe…Anyway, great post and have a great vacation!
My blog: http://www.petitestylestudio.com
I’m so happy you’re back to blogging. I love your style! Happy vacationing! Bring anything good to read?
“…when I travel, I find that I want to be this different, aspirational version of myself… ”
You hit the nail on the head! I so do this and now recognizing that I do this, I need to reign it in and not sure trips as an excuse to shop or try to be a perfect version of myself, whatever that means.
Also, word on the 2-inch heel. This I can do.
Have a great time at the beach!!
For me personally the aspirational self is my best friend and it is a joy to dream when I travel and maybe buy something new. I have found that my style really comes alive in these moments and incorporating aspects of these revelations into everyday life is very helpful for my overall wellbeing and happiness.
One great tip is to pack a maxi skirt. You can dress it up or down easily and it makes a great cover up to wear to the pool by wearing it like a strapless dress. So versatile.
Love that you are noting stuff made ethically/in the USA. I always have such a hard time finding stuff that I like…
Have a lovely holiday! Love this post!
Love,
http://www.thestyleventure.com
Wow, thank you so much for sharing this Caroline!
I must say, ever since I began to simplify my wardrobe I enjoy packing a lot more! Planning which pieces to bring along ( ones that can be mixed and matched to create several outfits) is a lot of fun! :)
Have a lovely time at the beach!
I loved this post and enjoyed reading it. I’ve been searching for just the right maxi dress for this spring, but haven’t found something that I really liked yet. through your link, I just purchased 3 dresses from Nordstrom. yeah! i’m ready for some sunshine here in Seattle…
Oh, how I wish I was headed to the beach! Portland is seeing sun this week, but it’s still freeeezing! Ready for warmer weather. I’ll be living vicariously through you/this post, and referencing in the summertime!
I guess I am already a minimalist? I just arrived back from Fort Lauderdale this morning, and my packing list is nearly identical to yours! My only tip is that I could not even wear my denim shorts as I got a sunburn the first day and found them to be too irritating so I stuck to an airy skirt instead. Also, as far as undergarments, I only wore a strapless bra the entire time because of the sunburn as well.
I love the thought of packing light… But how do you keep items clean? I feel like I would have to wash them in the sink each day. What do you do?
I am traveling to Greece this summer and before even purchasing hotel rooms I made and refined my packing list. I want to be as minimalist and stylish as possible. I even did a trial pack with 4 months to go…Luckily your blog has helped me to refine my wardrobe down to my essential style so it’s all quite enjoyable.
Love this! one question though: do you do a lot of laundry? When traveling to a hot climate and being at a beach setting it seems you’d get just one ‘wearing’ of an outfit due to sweat and such. How do you manage this? I aspire to pack lightly but that always seems easier when traveling to a cool or cold climate. I’d love to hear your thoughts.
Oooh a travel steamer! fun! I agree, nothing like a trip to make me want to buy or look like Audrey Hepburn in Roman Holiday.
http://www.mrsfranzos.blogspot.com
Love this! We’re going to the beach at the end of April and I’m always such a mess when it comes to packing (though it’s so much fun!!) and I always always end up packing too much and all the wrong stuff. thanks!
Great post! Thanks for sharing! It’s inspiring! I’ve also been packing much lighter when I travel. I have a trip coming up in a couple of weeks and I’m going to apply this and pack even lighter. I also love the steamer tip as I’ve been thinking about purchasing one. :)
This is considerably more put-together than my beach trip bag! Mine is usually just swimsuit, baseball hat (my wide-brim hats always blow away), 1 pair of 70’s style running shorts (they dry so fast!), sandals, a t-shirt, sundress, and lighweight hoodie or denim shirt for if it’s cold. I always keep our dopp kit packed (and there’s sunscreen included), so we just grab it, 2 towels, the cooler bag, an umbrella or pop-up tent, and we’re on the road! I’ll slap on the shorts/t-shirt combo if we have to leave the beach during the day, and the sun-dress if we’re going out for din-din.
In college I’d actually keep a bag packed with all my beach or swimmin’-hole gear so all I had to do was grab & go! Need to do that again…
Great post! Loved the tips and seeing what you are packing in for the beach. Gemma x
http://www.jacquardflower.uk
Thanks for the tips! You’re so right, everything is already in my closet!
xo, Cam
http://www.camillaandme.com
“There is so much joy in experiencing the world lightly”…thank you Caroline for your blog and encouragement and honesty. I “found” you via Madewell a few months ago and just completed the culling of my wardrobe (I first just wore my minimalist clothes from a very full closet?)…I gave my clothes to a few girls that are my size who work in ministry and in the adopted community — it has made for extra joy! Thank you!
I have traveled more in the last few years (and very minimally — a mid-size backpack only) and it was definitely a kick-start to the “everyday.” I love your thought process for your trip to the beach and some r&r…so good for you. See ya when you get back.???
You make it look SO EASY! Ugh, I am always trying to over-complicate things.
Easy = awesome.
Texas beaches are the best!
I noticed you’re looking into more ethically made clothing to represent on here. Have you seen The True Cost? (so good). Everlane is such an incredible brand, too, and I feel like your style fits their clothing best!
I’ll be going on a trip to Marrakech and the Atlantic coast soon, so thank you for the helpful tips, Caroline!
And also for linking “a pair & a spare”, so I got to discover this beautiful blog!
I just clicked through so many of Genevas pretty and informative articles!
Many greetings from Berlin/Germany!
http://chaosimkleiderschrank.de/
I have been loving your blog again. Don’t ever stop writing. :)
Do you own the Mamuye leather tote from fashionABLE too? I’ve had mine for 1.5 years now, and use it daily. And still, even after all that time, I can’t take my hands off of it. It’s so buttery and soft and I fall more in love with it every day. Haha.
Sarah
sarahesh.com
Love that collage! Seriously, so clean and pretty, it makes this post so easy to read.
coffeeslag
COFFEESLAG New Phone Cases!
I’m glad to know I am not the only one who loves packing for a trip! I plan weeks in advance for a big trip and take pleasure in having everything I need and nothing that I don’t. I also take pleasure in being able to look my best and feel great in my clothes but still have the smallest bag of any of the women on the trip. I can travel for weeks with one carry on bag!
I think a key you hit on in this post is the color palette. If you stick to a color palette then you can limit the pairs of shoes you bring…shoes take up precious room in a carry on bag!
Only other things I would add for the beach trip are perhaps a scarf to accessorize with and to keep off a chill (also great for plane travel) and some jewelry. I never travel with my most expensive pieces but some pieces that are fun and can make a statement and that I love to wear.
Enjoy your break!
Caroline! So glad that you are back!!!
Along the lines of secondhand… if anyone is looking for the Madewell crop top in this post, I have one listed on Ebay (my torso is just too long to pull it off even with high rise bottoms. Too bad because it’s super cute. Live and learn!) :: http://www.ebay.com/itm/281971245620?ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1555.l2649
oh, I wish! dreamy! (will definitely be traveling during the summer school break)
I love everything you packed and how you planned it beforehand! I need at least 3 lists to cover it all – I also pack for 4 kids so I’m sometimes losing myself in the process, forgetting stuff. Definitely need lists and checking off every item I pack.
Hi Caroline, I read you from Germany and I’m so glad you’re blogging again. I totally relate to this ‘I love packing’ and ‘I have waytoomuch fun trying to whittle down my belongings and pack the least amount of stuff possible’. For me part of the fun in a trip is deciding what to bring so that it fits in my 20-liter backpack and I still look good. Your beach packing list is a nice example for me, I like your style a lot.
It´s so much my taste! Love this, thank you. Although I´m not travelling right now, I will return to this post for inspiration for my summer capsule!
Oh my word I totally get you when you say travel brings out the desire to be something you aren’t entirely! I want people to think I’m super cool and have a fabulous wardrobe! Human nature is so weird.
Karin, truncationblog.com
I have a semi-unrelated question – my sister and I live together and are close enough in age and size to share a wardrobe. I’m really interested in creating a capsule wardrobe, but much of what I would get rid of are things she still wears. Also, I’m afraid that the pieces that I would want to base my capsule wardrobe on will get double-wear. I know this is probably a super isolated situation, but having one giant closet that I’m constantly digging through is the stuff of headaches. Do I politely tell her that I’m doing this new thing and then attempt to separate my clothes? Is this a double-standard if I still want to borrow something of hers? Any thoughts are greatly appreciated!
Ahoy from France! Just discovered your blog right when I was having a “OMG i literally hate all of my closet, what’s wrong with me ???” moment. I read it all (almost) and got rid of most of my stuff and I feel sooo much better now ! I don’t have enough money to plan for the upcoming season but I’m saving and making plans ! Thank you so much, you’re an inspiration !
Not sure if you know about Veja (http://www.veja-store.com/fr/17-femme) it’s a French environmental conscious brand. The materials they use are all produced in a very respectful way, their shoes are hand made in Porto Alegre and they make sure that their worker’s rights are respected, even the shipping is handled by an association that hire people facing social exclusion…etc And of course their shoes are incredibly pretty and comfy (i swear i’m not working for them hahaha). Anyway, thought that maybe you’d like to have a look at their shoes !
Keet it up !
xxx
That tote looks like the Mamuye tote — I just bought one and I think they are still on the market! I believe it is ethically made too.
https://livefashionable.com/product/mamuye-leather-tote/
Sooooooo happy you are back! Your blog changed my life in the most positive way. I now look good in the few nice things I have. I am expressing myself creatively in carefully building my capsules. Thank you so much for what you do!
I love your graphics! All of your packing lists and capsule wardrobe lists are always so pristine. The font is perfect, the layout of the clothing is perfect and the picture you used for the Beach Packing List is perfect (and gorgeous).
Hi Caroline! Quick question for you – how long will the trip be? I’ve gathered from reading your other posts that you try to pack relatively few pieces, ones that work well together. I’m just curious if this is a short weekend trip, or a longer one. On a side note, I love reading your blog, but especially the travel posts, because I am terrible about overpacking when going on vacation, and I’m trying to pack lighter. :) Thank you!
My partner and I always only bring carry-on wherever we go, including a six month trip abroad. While I really enjoy packing and the excited anticipation that goes along with it, he has a much easier time of it than I do. He owns one pair of jeans and two pairs of shorts and just swaps out different t-shirts. So simple.
We are going to Jamaica this December and I learned a lot on our recent trip there. I brought two summer dresses and LIVED in them. I never once wore the T-shirt I brought (too hot a humid, plus who wants a farmer’s tan!) And rarely, if ever, wore either of the two pairs of shorts I had with me. Next time, I’m bringing a bag full of sundresses and that’s it!
I’m anticipating a month of travel this summer, probably June and July. I’m already planning! Is that crazy? I think I’ll be taking more than this, but I definitely don’t want to take too much, since I will also be traveling with my five kids!
Thanks for denoting which items are made in the USA!!!
Love your tips, thank you! Question, when it comes to PJS do you just pack one pair? Also wondering about this in general…thanks!
I adore this list!
“See, when I travel, I find that I want to be this different, aspirational version of myself — and I want a wardrobe to match. But … after the trip, I know I’d just be left with clothes that don’t really work for my regular life + style.” –> Oh my god, PREACH. PREACHHH. That single quote perfectly sums up my (misguided) travel wardrobe experience. For example, if I visit a tropical place, all of a sudden I want to incorporate seashell-related paraphernalia into my wardrobe. If I visit an edgier place, all of a sudden I want to incorporate studs into my wardrobe. And it always seems like a great idea at the time…..until I get home, back to “real” life, and the pieces just sit there, neglected, because they’re not what I tend to reach for on a day-to-day basis. Ugh! I need to take a page from your book – er, blog! – and focus on the pieces that are already in my wardrobe first and foremost before incorporating anything new. :) Fantastic advice, as always! xx
Caroline, do you like your Everything But Water high waisted bottoms? I’m contemplating them (love the coverage and old-school look), but wonder how well they hold up over time.
Hello! What brand is the black maxi dress included in the set? I love the silhouette!
Thank you!
We are going to the beach (Jamaica) in a month with our two kids. It will be our first major trip with them. The amount of things needed to travel with kids is so overwhelming! We are thankfully renting a condo that has a washer and dryer in it! So at least for me I plan to pack light, and pack my toddlers stuff in the same suitcase as mine. I’ll just do laundry a couple times during the 12 day vacation! I love the idea of choosing a colour palate so that everything goes together!
Hi! I’m new to your site and was looking for what to pack in my carry-on for 7 days in FL. Ta-da! I found you ? I can’t even decide on a color scheme..blues ( I have a multi blue polka dot skirt) or pinkish/blush tops. Yes, I’m stressing since I fly out Monday early.
Thank you for this idea on what to pack in a carry-on!