2 weeks of travel in a carry on suitcase? How is it possible? With a capsule wardrobe, of course!
I have utilized this way of packing for several years, and it has helped me travel to over 80 countries and 7 continents in only a carry on (or only a backpack!)
Before we get into the details, you should consider making a packing list. This can help you stay organized, and prevent overpacking. You can sign up here to get on our email list, and get our FREE packing lists, complete with 2 examples, and a blank one, to fill out yourself.
What exactly is a capsule wardrobe? It is a minimal amount of garments that you can mix and match to make multiple outfits. This is a great way to pack for women and men, and even teenagers, and children.
It takes the stress out of packing, and the weight out of your bag. Being able to pack in only a carry on can save you time, money, and drama.
It also helps you feel like you have options when you get dressed in the morning, as most people like to have. The example I am going to give (for my trip to El Salvador that I am currently on) shows 4 bottoms and 6 tops, to create 24 outfits. Easy peasy!
How to do it??
Step 1: Look at the weather and your itinerary
Is the weather during your trip going to be warm or cold? Is it rainy season or dry season? Never assume the weather and always check.
You also want to consider your itinerary, or what you have planned on your trip. Are you hiking? Snorkeling? Volunteering at an elephant sanctuary? Seeing the northern lights? Going to a wedding? All of these plans require different types of outfits, and they should be taken into consideration when planning your garments.
For the trip I am headed on, it will be very hot, up to 90 degrees possibly. I will be doing some hiking, swimming, and sightseeing.
Step 2: Choose a color scheme
One of my favorite tips is to pick a color scheme. This will make the next few steps a lot easier. When you plan a color scheme, this will help eventually put outfits together. Stick to 2-3 colors and a pattern. This will include your outerwear and your accessories, too.
Black, white, gray and houndstooth? Olive, maroon, khaki, with stripes? Tropical print and bright colors? Blue, white, red and stripes? You can have so much fun with this.
I am doing a mixture of boho prints, with some neutrals and brights.
Step 3: Choose your bottoms
I always start with bottoms first. Your pants, shorts, and/or skirts. I like to pick 3 or 4.
I always love a nice versatile pair of wide leg black pants. These can be comfortable or stylish, and be worn both ways. I usually wear them on the plane.
I will be picking black denim shorts, 2 patterned skirts, and striped pants for my bottoms on this trip.
Set these aside. We’re moving on.
Step 4: Choose your tops.
Now we are going to do the same thing, but with tops. We are going to pick within our color scheme, and then eventually eliminate.
Once you have your pile of shirts you are considering, lets hover each shirt above the bottoms you chose. The goal is to pack about 6.
Does that top match all of your bottoms? Then it can be packed.
Does that top only match half of your bottoms? Eliminate it. Unless you have a specific outfit for a special occasion that cannot be eliminated, do not bring it.
In this case, we are going to pack 6 tops to go with the 4 bottoms. Which leaves you with 10 items for your trip to make 24 outfits.
Step 5: Choose Accessories
This is your shoes, jewelry, handbags, sunglasses, etc. I’m going to be minimal with this as well. As if you didn’t already know that.
For shoes, I am following my 2 shoe rule: pack a pair, and wear a pair. THAT’S IT. Am I tempted to bring more? Of course. Am I going to? No. I posted a blog recently about how to choose your two pairs of shoes based on your trip. Always consider Vessi shoes, because they are waterproof and comfortable. They are the best travel shoes, in my opinion, and I am bringing them on this trip, as well as my favorite croc sandals.
One crossbody handbag, or a sling, or a backpack should be fine. Pick what is best for your outfits, and makes the most sense for your travel activities.
I am bringing my cincha travel belt bag. Not only will it attach my personal item to my luggage, but it is a great crossbody sling, or waist pack, upon arrival.
As for jewelry, I only really travel with the jewelry I have on (which is waterproof and I never take it off) and pack a cute pair of earrings to match all of my outfits.
I packed two pairs of sunglasses, and I always pack two, incase one breaks.
I hope this helped! Check out my video on YouTube for a video version of this blog!
Happy packing!
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