My Packing List: My Method Part 1

Hello all!

Today I'm going to ramble about how I personally create a trip-specific packing list for clothes, shoes and accessories. This is the method that works for me, not universally, so try to be open-minded and enjoy!

First, I consider the length of the trip and THE SIZE LIMITS OF MY BAGGAGE. This gives me a guideline as to how many pieces of clothing to bring. In this particular case, I'll be away for 43 days, but I still need to be able to fit everything into one carry on bag.

Second, I look up the weather for my destination. During my stay in Moncton, the weather could be anywhere from low 60s to mid 80s, with the occasional rain shower. This let me know to bring a variety of clothes to fit different weather and temperature scenarios such as a rain coat, tank tops, and items that can be (un)layered such as cardigans and scarves.

Third, I list out all of the things I will be doing while I'm away from home.

• Going to class
• Walking and exploring
• Volunteering
• Going to the pool and beach
• Going out at night
• Attending a welcome dinner and completion ceremony

This helps me decide what situation-specific stuff needs to make it onto my final list, such as comfy shoes, sandals a bathing suit (or 4), and a mix of casual and dressy pieces such as a blazer and versatile dresses.

Fourth, I evaluate all of the clothes I already have AHEAD OF TIME, try everything on, and set aside what I think will work for the trip (including PJs, undershirts, and undergarments) onto one side of my closet. I then narrow the core pieces down to a neutral color palette. For Canada, I chose black, white, blue and tan. Bolder colors can be added later with statement pieces and accessories.

The 'Canada half' of my closet

Over the course of a few weeks, I move things back and fourth from that side of the closet based on several factors:

• Comfort: Do I feel confident while wearing it? Does it fit comfortably?
• Flexibility: Does it fit my color palette? Does it match with several other items including common pairs of shoes? Can it be layered?
• Packability: Does it roll or fold small? Is it wrinkle resistant? Does it require no special care?
• Personality: Does it reflect who I am as a person? Does it give off the kind of impression I would like to emit?

In this stage, I pre-pack at least one to insure everything will fit in my luggage.

Fifth, with the above rules in mind, I make a list of the other essential items and accessories I need to supplement what I already have to complete my trip-worthy wardrobe. Then, I shop! Still, I try to work around my neutral  base colors, adding pops of color in the form of light scarves.

Finally, I try everything on and create outfits! The less flexible items can be eliminated in this step, leaving only the most mixable pieces. Then, I take pictures of everything so I can remember what to put together when I'm away (and of course share with you all!).

There you have it! Stick around for more on my packing methods.

Until then, tell me how you choose what clothes to take when you travel in the comments below.

See ya!