This year I’ve done a good bit of traveling on the weekends, or just for a couple of days. Now I’m one of those chronic over-packers, and I know that I need to carry less baggage–especially when I’m flying. I’ve finally (kind of) mastered packing in just a carry-on bag for a Friday-Monday trip…I mean, with a big purse. I’m a fan of rolling luggage, and this fun, fall carry-on rolly is my new favorite bag for weekend travel. So, here we go with a few travel tips.
1. Go Mini I know, this seems like a given when you’re flying, but I’ve always been the girl that packed her full-size products for every trip and had to check my bag. This lightens my load considerably, and yes it includes my makeup bag. A foundation stick and a palette like this one can take the place of a foundation, eyeshadow palette, blush, and highlighter. These two with a liner and a mascara and you’re good to go with a much lighter makeup bag. Pick up a pack of TSA-approved plastic bottles and transfer your must-have items that don’t come in minis so that you can have them with you. (I’ve gotta have my Mystic moisture spray, especially when I’m flying, and it doesn’t come in a mini…yet.)
2. Bring Basics. When it comes to clothes, pack some basic colors that you can mix and match, along with one or two statement pieces. I tend to stick to black, gray, and black & white stripes (you know, the usual), and then toss in a couple of basic dresses, one pair of jeans, and a couple of pairs of leggings. This trip I’ve got to pack this fun tee, too! Wear your bulkiest shoes to the airport, and pack a pair that will match everything else. And if you’re like me, you’ll need an extra layer at some point, so wear an extra layer to the airport, too.
3. Roll It Up Tightly roll your clothes, don’t fold them. It takes up so much less space in your bag. Plus, it’s supposed to reduce the amount of wrinkles in your clothes when you unpack. I don’t know about that part, I always pack my travel steamer anyway.
4. Bring a Tote. On most airlines, you can bring one carry-on and a personal item. Use your tote to carry your tablet or computer, camera, headphones, a small purse or clutch, and anything you might need to access during the flight or while you’re at the airport.
5. Narrow down your electronics. This is tough these days, we all want to stay connected, even when we’re trying to get away. Think about what you really need on your trip. If you’re off work, skip the laptop and only take your tablet. A tablet can take the place of books and magazines, and can hold movies and music. Charge your tablet before you go, then leave that charger at home. You’ll probably only use it in the airport anyway. I’ve usually got to have my camera, but it’s pretty bulky, so on occasion I’ll just use my phone for photos to alleviate the weight of carrying my camera.
After all of my quick trips this year, these little changes have helped me pack a bit lighter and travel smarter when I’m heading off for a weekend away. And of course, I hope these little travel tips help you when you’re packing for your next quick trip. I’ve teamed up with Cinda B to give you the chance to win one of their Traveling Bowlers in Autumn Night (a perfect fall pattern!)
Carry-On Rolly & Vertical Cosmetic Bag c/o Cinda B
This post was created in collaboration with Cinda B. As always, all opinions are my own.