THE PACKING PICKLE: how to (hopefully) not over pack for spring break
I am the QUEEN of over packing, and if you’re reading this, chances are you are too! It must run in my family, because my dad always says he could be going away for “a month or a week and need the same amount of stuff.” Here’s some tips that will hopefully help you (and myself) stay under those 50lbs.
THE NECESSITIES
1. There’s some things you just can’t be shy on, such as: UNDERWEAR! Pack as much as you think you’ll need. Don’t count on having access to washing machines. Along with this goes socks and any other under garments.
2. Sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen (if you’re going somewhere warm and sunny, which hopefully you are). I’m a diva and usually bring about 3 pairs of sunglasses, but whatever floats your boat! Try to bring a neutral color hat like white or grey that can match almost everything.
THE STRUGGLES
1. Swimsuits! I always want to pack more swimsuits than I need…seriously, I want to pack more suits than days I’ll be there. One thing I try to keep in mind is to pack neutral pieces that you can mix and match with, that way you’ll feel like you’re bringing lots of options but will only be taking up minimal space.
2. Shoes. Shoes are a tough one because some shoes (such as your beloved white converse) tend to be the heavier items in your bag. I try to keep it down to three categories: flip flops/beach shoes, casual shoes, and nice shoes. Try to only stick to one pair per category and pick some that can be worn for multiple things. For example, you’ll never see me on vacation without my Jack Rogers, because they can be both casual and fancy. Also, wear your heaviest shoes on the plane, like those sneakers you’re bringing as you try to convince yourself you’re going to work out while you’re away.
3. Actual CLOTHES. This is always the hardest part for me because it’s hard to know what you’ll be doing! You could be spending the whole day at the beach and hardly need real clothes, or you could be going out to do things every day. Similar to swimsuits, try to bring staple items that you can wear with multiple things. I always like to make sure I have at least one pair of denim shorts, usually more than one white shirt, and at least one pair of printed shorts. From there I’ll add a couple shirts, and always remember to bring (at least) one sundress!
THE EXTRAS
A few things I never go on vacation without are:
1. Sun-In! Let those “natural” highlights out!
2. A cute bag that can multi-task as a beach bag and a going into town bag.
3. My GoPro for snorkeling pics!
THE CARRY-ON
Your carry-on is the place where you get to cheat, because you can throw in all those little extra things that you think you need but can’t fit in your suitcase. Here’s a few starters:
1. A good book. This is good for if you get stuck in the airport for longer than planned, especially if you have bad Wi-Fi. Also, a good thing for the beach!
2. Phone charger (obvious reasons).
3. Laptop, to watch movies on the plane and for the inevitable homework you’ll have assigned.
4. A face mask! My mom and I read about this once, and the idea is that it will you help you get off the plane with fresh and hydrated skin if you put it on a little before you land. We like to use the sleeping masks from Sephora because they come in small, easy, disposable packs. Also, remember to drink plenty of water throughout your travel days to stay hydrated!!!