Packing (deciding what to take)

[CoraggioCara]

I've been searching for threads on this but have mostly found threads on how to place the items in the case when what I'm looking for are tips and insight on deciding what to take.

Does anyone feel they get this right? And if so, what are the secrets?

• do you plan the outfits or just chuck in an assortment that's likely to provide good combinations?
• how do you deal with weather uncertainty- specifically for coats and shoes? (I end up wanting to pack them all so I can do waterproof and warm and stylish)
• accessories, I'm wondering whether to just commit to a couple of things (one scarf and a pair of earrings) and wear them with everything.

Probably i just need to accept the simple fact that if I want outdoor wear & sportswear and smart stuff it's going to turn into a big pile of clothes to take. Or

• do you just accept that when you go away from home wearing the same thing for several days in a row is an inevitably?

This is quite rambly. Grateful for any thoughts!

It might help if you provided more info on where you are going (abroad/UK), time of year, what will you be doing when you get there (fell walking, visiting museums, sunbathing/swimming, shopping etc etc), how long are you going for, any constraints i.e. are you flying and only allowed hand luggage or are you taking a big case etc etc.

To start with I would check the weather forecast as close to the date as possible. Then lie items on the bed and think about what goes with what in terms of colours, print, cut, think about footwear, jackets, jewellery, handbag if appropriate etc.

If you are fell walking in the Lakes or Wales warm clothes and quality waterproofs are essential and a priority for example.

Pack in outfits for every day with a couple spare items like leggings for under dresses if it is colder than expected or a smart top to go with the jeans from my casual outfit. 1 pair of sandals and 1 pair of trainers. Minimum accessories for me and wear a decent jacket on the day I go so I have it with me if needed.

I start with a general colour scheme! Then I know that the shoes/coats/accessories will go with multiple outfits. Even if it's a beach holiday I like my bikini/swimsuit to be able to double up as a vest top type thing.

Then I'll choose an outfit for daytime 'going out' depending on activity - hot place/sightseeing maybe a sundress for example.

Next some shorts and vest tops (not t-shirts cos I hate tan lines!) and a light jumper that goes with all the above.

Then a couple of dressier things if I'll be ' out out' at night, including a pair of heels that will go with both.

If I'm in the Uk walking or whatever it's just one pair of trousers/shorts (or shorts and some tights), couple of vest tops and a long sleeved layer, plus sweatshirt.

Lay it all out on the bed and see what can do double-duty and check any special underwear needed (eg Spanx or seamless or whatever)

I always also pack a bit of washing powder or liquid and plan to rinse things through if needed. I hate overpacking and over the years have realised that I often don't wear a lot of what I take, and I take the minimum.

Really, a hot beach holiday hardly needs anything apart from beachwear, shorts and vest and something to go out in!

A UK holiday just needs a couple more lightweight things that can be doubled up.

A weekend away can literally be done with just clean undies! But planning beforehand makes it so much easier!

Thank you!

Really helpful suggestions.

Packing in outfits is something I'll try. & Taking a nice top to pair with jeans. I'm interested in the idea of a colour palette.

Definitely need to get into the habit of checking the forecast, esp for UK trips.

I'm going to Spain for 3 nights/4 days in a couple of weeks and the forecast at the moment is a bit cooler than normal. I'm also, for the first time, only taking a carry-on backpack that goes under the seat - it's a cheap trip and not having a wheelie has saved me a lot. I'm planning layers and will travel in light-weight trousers, strappy top, cotton t-shirt and a thin loose jumper thrown on top. I'm packing a strappy dress (to go over bikini) and a loose midi dress with short sleeves. Both of these 'go' with my travel t-shirt and jumper and they don't crease. I'll be travelling in Skechers sandals and they'll have to do as I'm not taking any more footwear. It helps to imagine what you might do on holiday and visualise what you could wear for it (with some cool weather choices) and then check that your capsule wardrobe vaguely coordinates.

I'm in the process of planning a month long trip taking me from rural Scotland to southern Europe with a couple of nights out in London in between, so an interesting packing challenge.

Like B0J0ker I start with a base colour and plan out shoes and bags from that - they take up space and need to be able to double up, also I'm grumpy about shoes if my feet are sore, then doesn't matter what I'm wearing, I'll feel "off".
Then I start loosely planning outfits, and see what can double up, anything that can only be worn once has to be really worth it to make it to the suitcase, even if its a favourite (it can still be a favourite just has to wait til I'm home). Once I've got that I fill in the blanks, so I'll need at least one jumper so I work out which one goes with most of the outfits I've got in mind. Also a separate list for stuff like PJ's or a robe, swimmers, socks and underwear.

Lastly - especially if it's a big trip like mine - I throw in some spares or substitute some things that have seen a better day or I'm thinking of replacing. I know some people like all new holiday clothes, but I know I'll pick up items as I travel, so if I've some teeshirts or whatever that are on their last leg but will work for travel days or under jumpers, I'll take them and then recycle along the way to make room for anything I bought on the trip.