I do a lot of travelling and I absolutely love it but packing for a trip is really a daunting task for me. I experience packing anxiety – if that’s a thing, it should be. At least a week before I am due to hop onto a plane and get my tourist on I start panicking about packing. I am always browsing the internet for ways to lighten my load and save space. I won’t say I am an expert but I’ve learnt a few things along the way and I would like to share what I’ve learnt about packing for trips with all of you.

1. Plan your outfits 

It is important to think about where you are going in terms of climate and what you would be doing in terms of physical activities and pack accordingly. Plan your outfits in advance to avoid over packing and ending up having a “nothing to wear” scare far away from home because you didn’t think things through properly – this has happened to me on more than one occasion. Do not make the same mistake.

2. Roll your clothes

You will be astonished at how much you can fit into your suitcase when you do this. This is definitely  the best way for me to make the most of my space.  Another thing I love about this trick is that rolling my clothes minimizes wrinkling and creases.

3. Use shower caps to store shoes 

I’ve only recently started doing this but it is such a helpful hack. It helps to prevent the transfer of dirty soles soiling your clothes. I now keep all the complementary shower caps I receive at hotels because they are a vital part of my packing routine.

4. Simple makeup looks

I struggle with this so much but just like planning outfits, plan simple and quick makeup looks to help minimize the amount of makeup you take with on your trip. This will make it so easy to get ready as well as lighten your load. My basic look includes foundation, face powder, eyebrow kit, mascara, bronzer and a nude lipstick.

5. Pack travel size toiletries

Regular size toiletries take up way too much space, add unwanted weight and you don’t even need it all. I refill my old travel size containers all the time and pack those instead. Another important tip is to only pack the essentials – deodorant, wash cloth, soap, lotion, razor, toothpaste, toothbrush, shampoo/conditioner and Q-tips.

I like to keep it simple and basic so that I can spend more time on enjoying my holiday rather than having to worry about the bill of overweight charges during my getaway. Travelling is such an immense experience and should be enjoyed at every point – even packing.

Thank you for reading,

Fazeelah