Having the “right” travel wardrobe really helps make a trip enjoyable. The biggest challenge is figuring out how to pack for the unknowns: weather, different climates and varied activities. Researching, planning and editing are essential. The goal for me is to not only travel light, but to feel stylish and comfortable.

• I like to look at pictures of where I am going and see what type of clothes people are wearing.
• Check the temperatures and factor in the lows and the highs. You might have both extremes on the same trip. Spring travel is always unpredictable.
• I use a clothing rack to hang my potential wardrobe. It is much easier to edit when the clothing is on hangers. Keep asking the question, “can I wear this garment three times and can I layer it?”
• Start with a simple color scheme; non-wrinkle, washable fabrics; mix and match designs seem to be the way to go. For this trip I am going with black and olive.
• I have one pair of city shoes and one pair of more rugged “walkers”. I also am including a pair of low boots for the city.
• Plan to layer- start with an A’nue Ligne tank, add a tee shirt, sweater or jacket and a scarf. You can then adjust for varying temperatures. You want to be able to wear each garment you select at least three times.
• A good rule of thumb is to pack two tops to every pair of bottoms. I am bringing 4 pants/jeans, 8 cotton tops, 2 vests, one sweater, one sweatshirt & one raincoat.
• Carry on is best, but if that doesn’t work for you, decorate your suitcase with colorful duct tap. Make sure that you mark (with a Sharpie) the inside of your suitcase with your contact information. Also, include your travel itinerary inside the bag- that way you are covered if your tags fall off.
• Photograph the outside of your suitcase and the inside contents. You will have a record if it is delayed or lost.
• Always bring a scented scarf or pashmina on the plane. It can serve as an accessory, odor shield, blanket or head scarf.
  Pack a sleep mask and ear plugs. Roll your clothes instead of folding- you can fit in more. I also use packing cubes to keep things organized.
• Carry plastic bags in all sizes- use to store dirty clothes, bag electronics, space savers etc.
• Carry an emergency kit stocked with band-aids, antihistamines, pain reliever, anti-diarrhea medicine, tape, sewing kit, alcohol wipes & anti-bacterial ointment. Bring along your prescription bottles (in case you need a refill).
• Bring a multi-socket extension cord so that you can charge your electronics. Make sure you have the right adapter for foreign countries.
  Make photocopies of your passport and credit cards before leaving home and bring a copy with you.
• Bring your own snacks. You can skip airport food, save money and keep hunger at bay in case your flight is delayed.
• Use a back-pack as your carry-on or go for a multi purpose tote that can stack on the handle of your luggage.
  Use the hotel hair dryer rather than haul yours.
• Thieves Oil (available on Amazon) is great to have on hand. It deodorizes and kills bacteria & mold on you and any surfaces.
• Have a plane “uniform” (layers) and wear it on all flights. Wear your heaviest clothes. Bring a good looking jacket or sweater- you never know when you are going to be invited to a fancy restaurant. I found one that is soft cotton and packs very well.
• This seems silly, but try on all of your clothes before you pack them. Make sure that everything fits and that you have the proper underwear and the right accessories. It is good to rehearse your outfits so that you know what goes with what, and you won’t be overwhelmed with choices once you arrive at your destination.
• Pack well- feel confident- enjoy the experience.
  Carpe Diem
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