Planning Your Travel Capsule Wardrobe
One of the main reasons people struggle to build a travel capsule wardrobe is that they do not plan it in any way and end up packing way more than they need. There are several things you should consider before you even start packing;
- How long are you away?
- Are there washing facilities?
- What is the climate like? This is an important one. It is easy to forget how cold or warm another climate can be. Research this and pack accordingly.
- How much can you carry?
- Are you planning on days out?
- Are there any activities that require particular clothes?
Consider all of these things before you start packing, write a list based on these elements.
How To Pack For Your Vacation
Once you have a clear idea of what you need regarding the climate, length of stay, activities and facilities, you must choose the most appropriate clothes. It is very easy at this stage to pack too much or ‘in the event’ items based on your experience at home. For example, it is often tough to imagine a climate so different to your own and take extra warm clothes ‘just in case’
The problem with dressing inappropriately is not only do you feel uncomfortable, but you also stand out as a tourist. Living in London, I constantly saw American tourists roasting in waterproof raincoats in the summer. I am not saying it does not rain here, but check the weather for the period you are travelling to your destination. In some places, you could be taken advantage of if, as a result, unscrupulous individuals can see you are a tourist.
Start by pulling out clothes you might need and pile them somewhere about a week before your trip. Try to look at each item and how you will wear it in an outfit. Ordinarily, you will need more tops than bottoms. Try to limit the colours you take so you can mix and match items easily.
Travel Capsule Wardrobe Essentials
I have based this list on a two-week trip to a warm destination with washing facilities. Your capsule should be based on the climate at your destination and the time you intend to stay there.
- Three bottoms, skirts or trousers
- Six sleeveless or short-sleeved tops
- A lightweight jacket
- A lightweight cardigan or jacket.
- Swimwear
- Two pairs of shorts
- Two dresses (one can be more appropriate for the evening)
- A travel bag with room on the way to your destination to accommodate any purchases
- A day bag for day trip essentials
- Flat walking shoes
- Beach shoes or sandals
- Shoes or heels appropriate for the evening
This collection of clothes will cover a couple of evenings out, seven daytime outfits, and a trip to the beach before any need for wash facilities.
What To Avoid Packing For A Vacation
Avoid the classic pitfalls when packing for a holiday. So many people have a wardrobe full of clothes but nothing to wear. Many more pack a suitcase full of clothes they never wear despite paying a premium to put it in the luggage hold.
The trick is to start planning a week before, as mentioned above. Most people will pull out too many options initially. Look at that pile a few days later and remove apparent repeats. Analyse what you have and be honest with yourself; if you have not worn that bright pink dress at home, are you likely to wear it on vacation? If not, remove it.