Tired of hearing travel pros telling you to make it work with only a carry-on suitcase? Packing lighter can make traveling more convenient (no extra baggage fees) and more enjoyable (no lost or damaged checked bags to worry about). There is a lot of advice on how to cram all your stuff into one small roller bag and a personal item, like this blog post: "Packing Prep 101." It can be overwhelming. I suggest you start with a few simple rules.
Here are my top three tips for women who want to pack lighter on their next trip:
Opt for a Scarf Instead of a Jacket
Packing a scarf instead of a jacket can help in many ways. Here are a few reasons I always travel with a scarf:
Versatility:
A scarf can add a pop of color to your capsule-style wardrobe. I always pack neutral (mostly dark) colors that I can wear more than once, so adding a colorful scarf changes the look every time.
And, a scarf can be used in many ways – around your neck, a shawl for cold evenings or when you need to cover your shoulders inside churches, a head covering when it rains or is colder than you expected, or even a makeshift blanket on a chilly flight. I have even used a scarf as an eye mask on an overnight flight to Italy.
Space-saving:
Scarves are typically lightweight and take up minimal space in your luggage compared to a bulky jacket. Even a lightweight jacket demands more square footage in your carry-on suitcase. I always wear my scarf on the flight so it doesn't even need to take up space in my luggage. I even pack a lightweight scarf in my daily travel purse or shoulder bag for any of the uses listed above.
Layering options:
Packing a scarf allows you to focus on layering lightweight clothing items to adjust to changing temperatures. You can easily remove or add a scarf to regulate your body temperature without having to carry around a heavy coat all day.
TRAVEL TIP: Bring only one scarf and buy a few at your destination. It's a fantastic souvenir that will bring back fun travel memories every time you wear it.
Three Pair Shoe Limit
My personal rule for shoes is to choose only three pairs for a trip. I pack the two lightest pairs and wear the heaviest and/or bulkiest pair on the plane. It's a great way to minimize the space your footwear takes up in your luggage. Here are my suggestions on how to make the most of these three pair categories:
Comfortable walking shoes (most likely worn on the plane)
Choose a comfortable pair of walking shoes that are suited for your specific feet to walk long distances. It took me a long time to find the brand that is best for me and my feet. Waterproof sneakers, running shoes, or walking shoes are good options. Many brands are so stylish you can't even tell it's made for athletics.
Casual everyday shoes
Select a casual pair of shoes in a neutral color that can be worn during the day for sightseeing or casual outings. Remember you will most likely need to walk several miles in these shoes, so be sure to test them before you pack them.
Consider versatile options that provide comfort like stylish soft-strap sandals or rubber-soled loafers with foam support.
Dressier evening shoes
Bring a pair of shoes that can be dressed up for evening events or dinners and still be used for daily walking. This could be a pair of wedges, or flats, depending on your style. My go-to is a chic black flat for its elegance and goes-with-everything style.
TRAVEL TIP: Most 4 and 5-star hotels (I have even seen them in 3-star hotels) offer complimentary slippers. I always use one pair and take home the second pair so I always have a pair packed when I arrive at a hotel without the complimentary offer.
Leave Hair Appliances at Home
When traveling to Europe, you have to remember the voltage difference and plug types used in various countries. Take it from me, packing hair appliances that are not compatible with European electrical systems can damage your devices. I have fried my favorite curling iron and damaged my hair because I didn't realize how hot the iron was getting - even with the outlet adapter.
Here are some tips on how to manage your hair care routine without packing appliances that won't work in Europe:
Use the hotel or apartment rental blow dryer:
Most European hotels have a standard practice of supplying blow dryers in each guest room. I have even found them in long-stay apartment rentals.
TRAVEL TIP: Always call ahead or have your Travel Agent confirm they have blow dryers available.
Consider alternative styling methods:
Instead of packing your hair appliances that may be damaged in Europe, consider other hairstyles you like that don't require electrical appliances. I sometimes go curly on my last few days abroad and avoid blow-drying my hair altogether. I also do a French twist style so I don't have to pack my flat iron. You could opt for other heatless styling techniques like braids, ponytails, or and hair accessories like headbands and clips to create different looks.
If you have time you might want to visit a local salon for a blowout or styling. My mom and I always look for Aveda-branded salons as we know at least one person will speak English. But for the more adventuresome, you can always go super local.
Purchase dual-voltage or European-compatible appliances:
If you travel a lot and need to use special hair appliances during your trip, consider purchasing dual-voltage devices or appliances specifically designed to work with European electrical systems. This will ensure that your devices will work properly and safely without the need for a voltage converter.
By following these tips and being mindful of what you pack, you can lighten your load and make traveling a bit easier and way more fun.
What are your favorite tips for packing light? Please share them with us by posting in the Comment section below.
The Way To Italy has been providing fee-based, custom travel planning for travelers to Italy for 23 years. I handcraft once-in-a-lifetime Italy
experiences down to the last detail.
Absolutely great article Pamela! Lot of great alternatives that I never thought about. She has physically shown me how to pack for a 7 day trip to Italy with one carryon and 1 large tote. My problem is I can't part with my hair dryer and products, and I can't limit my shoes! But I'm learning and trying!😊✈️