When Traveling, Pack Bare Minimum

Do you always pack twice as much as you need when you travel, wanting to be prepared for every conceivable occasion? You’re not alone - if there’s one thing travel experts agree on, it’s that most people pack far too much for trips.

Believe it or not, it is possible to pack a suitcase that’s easy on your arms, yet holds enough outfit options to keep you covered.

First, pare your packing list to a bare minimum.

You’ll want to be prepared for climate ups and downs and special events you’ll attend, but keep things reasonable. Decide what you really need - and be willing to leave the rest behind.

Pack pieces that work together. Versatility is key when choosing clothes for your trip. Choose a turtleneck that goes with trousers that go with a blazer that goes with a skirt…. You get the idea.

Kim Johnson Gross, co-founder of Chic Simple International and co-author of many of the books in that series, recommends packing basics in simple shapes and neutral colors. The punch comes from brightly colored accessories, which can be neatly tucked away in a zippered pouch.

It’s also a good idea to choose fabrics that are lightweight and wrinkle-resistant, like Lycra, microfiber and light wool.

Here are a few more things to keep in mind:

Take a good look at your luggage.

Do you really need that oversized garment bag? If you will be gone for less than a week, you can probably get by with one large carry-on bag.

It’s tough to know just how much you can take on board with you, with each airline enforcing different restrictions on carry-on luggage. Most will not allow more than one major piece of luggage, which usually can be no more than 45 linear inches (that’s height plus width plus depth).

So be sure to call your travel agent or airline to find out what’s allowed. Then, if possible, plan to pack everything in a large carry-on, the kind with a handle and wheels.

Luggage with plenty of zippered pockets will keep clothes organized and also provide a separate spot for soiled clothes.

To avoid wrinkles, use a trick fashion designers have long employed when sending collections to shows: Line a piece of clothing with a sheet or two of tissue paper. Then fold it over and roll it like you would a blanket. Carefully place the rolls in your suitcase.

Place shoes and other heavy items on the bottom of the suitcase, lighter clothing at the top. Place fragile items and appliances in the middle to cushion against breakage.

If you’re packing an extra handbag, fill it with underwear, jewelry, or other small items to maximize space and help it keep its shape. The same goes for extra pairs of shoes - fill them with socks and hose. Then pack each pair in a plastic bag.

And to conserve suitcase space, wear a blazer or jacket on the plane.

Always pack essentials in a carry-on bag. Never check medicine and valuables. Also keep important documents like your passport, credit cards, driver’s license and insurance card with you at all times. Other little extras that are nice to keep on hand, in case the rest of your luggage turns up missing: a change of underwear, an extra pair of glasses or contacts, makeup, and a little cash.

And no matter where you’re going, packing and dressing in layers is a smart move. Planes are often chilly, climates unpredictable, so wear a tee shirt, sweater and jacket, then peel off layers as needed.