Packing efficiently for summer trips can be a challenge, especially when you want to stay stylish and avoid overpacking. As a personal stylist, I’ve discovered a few lesser-known tips and tricks that can make your summer packing experience a breeze. In this article, I’ll share some efficient and smart packing tips that will help you optimize your suitcase space while ensuring you have a fabulous and fashionable summer wardrobe. Let’s dive in!

(DON’T MISS THE FUNNY VIDEO AT THE END :))

Know the weather and plan accordingly. 

Layers are key and picking items that can be mixed and matched and taken from day to night. For example a sun dress that can be worn with sneakers during the day and add a lightweight jacket or cardigan with a block sandal and clutch for evening.

Shoe Space

Packing the essential shoes are key because they take up a lot of space and can add to that overage luggage fee so try to limit your shoes to 3- a sneaker, a flat or platform sandal, and a dressier option.

SHOP OUR TOP SANDAL PICKS FOR SUMMER 2023

Keep it neutral & multi-functional

Keep to a more neutral palate and add one key color or add color in your accessories it will be easier to mix and match the items during your trip.

a) Neutral shades such as white, beige, black or navy blue. These colors can easily be paired with each other or combined with bolder accessories for a variety of stylish looks.

b) Pack multi-functional garments: Look for convertible or reversible clothing items. For example, a coverup that can double as a casual dinner dress, offering different outfit options. Lightweight scarves or wraps can serve multiple purposes. Use them as a beach cover-up, a headscarf, or tie them around your handbag for a pop of color.

c) Layer strategically: Instead of packing heavy sweaters or jackets, focus on lightweight layers. A denim or linen jacket is perfect for cold restaurants.

Blair’s Travel Tip for Shopping: “I always take an extra foldable bag in my suitcase in case I go shopping while on vacation (which happens every time) so then I can check two bags on the way home!” Here’s Blair’s favorite bag for this trick.

Optimize Space with Packing Cubes/Compression Bags:

Efficiently utilizing the available space in your suitcase is essential, and packing cubes and compression bags can be your secret weapons. Here’s how to make the most of them:

a) Categorize and compress: Sort your clothing items into categories like tops, bottoms, swimwear, and accessories. Place each category in separate packing cubes to keep your suitcase organized. Additionally, compression bags can be used to compress bulky items like beach towels or dresses, maximizing space.

b) Roll, don’t fold: Rolling your clothes instead of folding them not only minimizes wrinkles but also helps save space. Roll thinner fabrics like t-shirts and dresses, and stack them vertically in your packing cubes or compression bags.

c) Utilize the “dead spaces”: Don’t overlook the “dead spaces” in your suitcase, such as the insides of shoes or gaps between larger items or inside a clutch/extra handbag. Utilize these areas by stuffing small items like socks, belts, or accessories, helping you optimize every inch of space.

Belts and hats

Pack a couple of belts to cinch dresses or add shape to loose tops. Additionally, a stylish hat is best attached to your carry on bag to prevent damage. Our favorite way to securely travel with a hat hands-free, is this stylish cutie.

Do you tend to overpack? We do too. And here’s a funny video to prove it 😉

Safe travels this summer! Stay Stylish!