TRAVELING LIGHT LAGOM STYLE

I think fall is the best time in the whole year to travel. The weather is usually good, crowds are thinner and the crisp air invigorates. I am doing some traveling this season and want to make sure that I have packed carefully and smart. Too little (seldom the case), too much (more likely) or wrong choices (sometimes) can really affect the enjoyment of your travel- very lagom (Swedish for just enough). I’m not packing for the worst-case scenario. I’m packing for the best-case scenario and will buy myself out of any jams (some of my most treasured purchases). As Rick Steves says, “Think in terms of what you can do without — not what will be handy on your trip.”

• Always start your travel wardrobe from your feet up. Your shoes are the most important part of your wardrobe.  I like to bring a pair of weather resistant ankle boots, some versatile sneakers, and a pair of flats or sandals (that you can walk in). All of your clothes will need to go with these shoe selections. Unless you have a formal event to attend, leave your heels at home.
• Color-wise, base your wardrobe around black, navy, gray and another muted color. Leave your brights & lights at home.
• For a trip over a week, I like the ratio of 3 to 4 bottoms combined with 6 to 8 tops. Long sleeves are great in the fall.
• Lightweight knits are my go to in simple elegant designs.
• The weather can be unpredictable at any time of the year, but fall especially. I am including some layering camisoles, wool socks, lightweight gloves and a hat. 
• A lightweight jacket/blazer is a must. This jacket needs to be big enough to go comfortably over several layers.
• Good looking dark denim jeans. Denim is universal world wide, wears well and disguises dirt and stains.
• Pull on (yoga style) black pants. The smooth front is flattering and woks well with different tops and jackets.
• A pair of leggings can be a good addition. wear with a tunic or wear under jeans if the temperatures drop.
• A cashmere wrap/scarf. This multi purpose wrap is great on the plane, can be used as a wrap and can provide warmth if the temperatures are chilly. Scarves are also a great way to change up your outfits and add variety to your neutral colors.
• Your plane uniform should be comfortable with layered pieces- wear your heaviest and bulkiest garments to save room in your suitcase.
• Rule of three: wear three layers and think that each piece should be worn at least three times.
• A lightweight puffer jacket that folds up into a bag.
• Rain gear (include an umbrella).
• Try on all of your combinations and photograph these combinations with your phone. The pictures will jog your jet-lagged brain.
• Think comfort and mobility. Make sure that you can sit and move comfortably in all of the clothing you bring- no tight or constraining garments.
• Everything should fit into a carry-on.  Think about getting on and off trains and pulling your suitcase much farther than you ever imagined.
• Use vacuum bags to compress your clothing. Packing cubes are great to keep your gear organized.
• Backpacks make great carry-ons. I store a cross-body purse in the backpack.
• Think climate change: weather is more unpredictable than ever. Layers are a must for comfort.

What are your favorite travel tips?

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