If you’ve been following along on Instagram, then you know we just got back from a vacation to Italy. And, so many of you asked how I packed because it probably looked like I had a month’s worth of outfits! So, as I was unpacking I put together a list of the packing tips and tricks I’ve learned over the years. I’ve been to more than 20 countries, many of which I used only a carry-on bag. As a result, I’ve learned the art of packing a suitcase along the way. A few easy tips include using chic organizers, planning my outfits and bringing all my favorite travel size products.
Shop this International Packing Tips Post:
Packing for International Travel: Top 10 Tips
It’s a fact – nearly 90% of women admit to not wearing everything they pack for a trip!* Whether you’re a fan of folding or swear by rolling your clothes, that’s just scratching the surface of the things you can do to save space and organize your suitcase. Without further ado, here are my top 10 packing tips for international trips (and most apply to domestic travel too!).
Use organizers for your face and hair products
for years I used a quart size Ziploc bag that continually got dirty and would never zip all the way when I traveled. Then, I found Truffle organizers. They’re chic, come in a ton of colors and have a certain set of items that are TSA-approved. I used the clarity clutch small for my serum, Summer Friday’s face mask and other products. For hair products, see my next tip.
Stock up on travel size mini’s of your favorite products
like I mentioned in my post here, there are certain hair products I use everyday, like my Oribe Dry Texturizing spray and Oribe hair oil. Both come in travel size bottles, so I always pack those with me when I go overseas. Next time, I’m going to bring this Oribe travel set which includes a mini shampoo and conditioner too. I store them all in this clarity jetset case.
Carry important items in a separate pouch
I put my passport and Euros (that I converted at the bank prior to leaving) in this slim privacy clutch. The only time I’ll carry my passport on me is if I know I’m doing tax-free shopping where they need those details for the refunds!
Take only the makeup you need
my train case stores far more makeup that I need on my trip. To save space, I took out extra blushes, highlighters and mascaras that I wouldn’t need. I’m toying with the idea of just using this palette from Charlotte Tilbury for my next trip.
Bring your curler but forget your hair dryer
for domestic travel, I bring my own T3 travel hair dryer because it blows away (see what I did there ;)) the ones in the hotel. But, European hotels seem to provide better tools. Only caveat? You need a converter for most curling irons. See next tip below.
Don’t forget adapters and a converter
I have this adapter that I picked up years ago that works for all different countries. Since we all have multiple devices these days, I’d bring at least 2-3 (one for your phone, another your tablet or computer and another for your camera).
Pack with a color palette in mind
it might seem hard to pack only 1-2 pairs of shorts or denim and only 2-3 tops or jackets. But, if you bring things that coordinate you’ll ultimately take up less space in your luggage and have room for souvenirs. I stick to white, army green, black and occasionally a floral print.
Plan your outfits by day
over-packing is easy to do if you don’t plan your outfits in advance. I use my notes app in my iPhone to prep my looks day by day and include an accessories list too. Refer back to your color palette so you only bring bags and jewelry that will go with multiple outfits. I like to bring Julie Vos baubles with me because they literally go with everything.
Pack only 2-3 pairs of shoes
fight the temptation to bring a pair for each outfit. Instead, pack neutral shoes that will go with everything, like these M.Gemi sneakers for walking on any tours you take (also love these canvas espadrilles by Soludos), white sandals and nude ankle strap sandals.
Carry your hat
accessories make an outfit! So, bring your favorite hat (mine is this boater hat!) and use a case like this hat box to keep it in perfect condition as you travel.
There you have it! My best packing tips for organizing your suitcase. I highly suggest you also organize your handbag too. For our recent trip, I used this clarity pouch mini for my headphones, powder and charger cables so I could easily find them inflight (such a lifesaver).
If you have any questions on packing for international travel, leave a comment below!
*According to Glamour magazine.
