packing tips for the well-dressed gal

packing can be a daunting task and probably doesn't make it into the category of "fun." but, if you leave packing to the last minute it leads to a poorly packed bag with wrinkled clothes and missing essential items. if you're worried about overpacking or the small carry-on cramping your style, don’t fret we’ve created a simple guide for you that helps you figure out what to bring without sacrificing anything. whether you’re going away for the weekend or traveling for work, here are a few tips to make your next trip much easier.

find the right bag

don’t cut corners and splurge on a really good carry-on. purchase one that is tailored to your personal style, but follows the airline's carry-on guidelines. you won’t have to replace it every year and it will make traveling much easier. when you limit what you pack to a carry-on bag it makes traveling quicker. you can skip past the bag check and leave immediately after your plane lands without any distractions. stores like tumi, j.crew, everlane, and hook + albert have some really great options, so start your search there. we love also love bri emery’s--the blogger behind the popular blog, design love fest-- luggage and travel accessories line for target.

create a packing strategy

how do you fit everything on a small carry-on? plan ahead what you’re going to wear for each occasion, check the weather, and choose a color palette of neutrals and patterns that work well together. be sure to only pack what you need so you don't take up any unnecessary space. here’s a handy checklist to keep in mind.

• select your travel clothes first and wear your bulkiest items on the plane. you’ll have more space in your bag without having to sacrifice your clothing options.
• if you’re traveling for work, pack a solid color pantsuit and wear it several ways. you can style it with different patterned blouses, layer sweaters over your suit pants or wear a skirt with the suit blazer. you'll have tons of options without having to pack a ton of stuff. also, you can wear your suit jacket with dark washed jeans for dinner.
• wear your heaviest shoes on the plane and pack at the bottom of your bag an all-purpose pair of shoes. roll up your scarves and tights, and store them inside your shoes.
• small items like underwear and t-shirts should be tightly rolled and store at the bottom of the bag to hold everything together.
• carefully fold your pantsuit and store it in a plastic bag. place your pantsuit at the bottom of your bag.
• the next layer of items should be your jeans, blouses, and sweaters. only bring 1 or 2 of each at most and layer these items flat on top.
• store chargers and small accessories on your bag’s extra pockets.
• create a beauty travel kit with travel-size toiletries. figure out what items you can get from your hotel, so you can save space in your bag.

remember that you’re allowed to bring a second smaller bag for personal items. this can be a backpack, purse or messenger bag. you should use this second bag to pack your ipad, smartphone, laptop, headphones and any other personal essentials that you might need during your flight.

photo credit: 1 // 2 // 3