Winter Trip Capsule Wardrobe
I’ve been dreaming up a capsule wardrobe for wintertime travel to a cold destination. Minimal packing when you expect hot weather is pretty easy, but sometimes cold places are worth visiting. Right? Yes, even for me, and I generally hate cold weather. The truth is, I hate feeling cold. So I embrace the adage, “There’s no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing.
Here’s my suggested capsule wardrobe: a minimal, curated collection of versatile pieces that keep you stylish and comfortable without the hassle of overpacking. Think cozy layers, rugged boots, warm PJs, and everything you need to embrace the chilly weather in effortless style—all while keeping it compact and carry-on friendly.
Cute and cozy, right?
The idea of a February getaway to a northern hemisphere city or quaint village becomes much more enticing when you know your luggage is packed with cozy clothes that will not let you suffer numb extremities or frozen buns. I’m envisioning staying comfy while strolling through counting snowflakes, sipping lattes in charming cafes, wandering through art museums, and window shopping a row of quirky boutiques.
Here’s your text checklist:
✅ knit scarf
✅ warm hat
✅ sweater dress
✅ fleece-lined tights
✅ coat (parka style)
✅ gloves
✅ tote (leather or vegan)
✅ shacket
✅ fleece top
✅ sweater
✅ tunic blouse
✅ active pants
✅ cozy pajamas
✅ chunky boots
✅ waterproof boots
At the time I started working on this blog post, the exact items you see pictured were available for purchase on Thredup. (All except for fleece-lined tights, which are game changers, and available via amazon[aff.]). By the time you are reading this, the Thredup items have probably sold, but you can find similar items there easily.
Thredup is my favorite site for sourcing second-hand women’s clothes. It’s well-categorized and maintained, and they’ve recently updated it with some fresh AI functionality that makes it incredibly addicting.
You can:
👗 Find a fit you love online, link or upload the image, and see similar items in your sizes (for example, you could even link the image in this post in the Thredup search bar, and it will give you similar options).
👗 Chat with the AI stylist and see images of the suggested outfits on a person
👗 Save your favorite items and wait for a sale
👗 Save your favorite searches so you can keep yourself well dressed in your favorite brands, colors, and materials
👗 You can sort by color, style, price, size, brand, and many other tags
It’s okay that the Thredup site is fun and addicting because you’re doing a good deed for the planet and your finances by shopping second-hand. 🌎
THE Essential All-Weather Minimalist Packing List: How to Pack Carry-On Only
Welcome to my essential packing list for a carry-on bag.
I put this blog post together with help from my sister, Lucia Parker.
Honed over seven years of international travel in dozens of countries and climates, this list distills everything I’ve learned about what to pack to be minimalist, comfortable, and fashionable, in any location - especially for a trip that includes weather extremes. I’ve taken the advice of my fashion icon sister to make sure each piece listed is not only adventure-friendly, but has a timeless elegance. In other words, this list is road-tested for practicality AND is stylish-sister approved.
Whether you’re planning a trip or just dreaming of travel, I hope this list is useful. No matter how cold it is where you land, you’ll be able to feel comfy and look presentable, and even glam, as my sister proves in this photo of her on a trip (Asia winter high desert climate - mild days and cold nights) wearing only items from this minimalist packing list:
Ready for anything and such a VIBE. ✨
Packing light is a challenge, especially for the inexperienced traveler, or the traveler who simply doesn’t have time to plan and think through packing in great detail. Did you know that a really good pack usually requires re-packing several time before your trip? Otherwise, we all tend to over pack. It’s human nature.
With this list, you won’t have to go through the effort to pack and re-pack.
This list will fast-track you to a thoughtfully-packed lightweight carry-on bag that contains enough of the right layers to keep you warm and cozy in cold, wet climates as well as cool and comfy when your location gets a bit of sunshine.
Other minimalist packs may contain less, but in my experience, truly tiny packs only work for hot climates. If you’re traveling to someplace with a variable climate (which is a lot of places, a lot of the year) you’ll need to pack a little more. But you can still fit it all in a carry-on suitcase that fits in the plane’s overhead bin.
In addition to clothes, I’ll also list the other necessities I find essential for any trip. I pretty much pack this way for all my trips, and if I don’t, I usually regret it.
This list will also provide for any length trip, from one week to one year, provided you are willing to do some sink laundry or find a laundromat or laundry service on your trip.
My goal is for this one blog post to serve as the last packing post you’ll ever need to consult to pack a minimalist carry-on bag. With this packing list, you can stop worrying about how heavy your bag is and focus on enjoying your travels!
Of course, you’ll want to make small changes to this list to make it work for your unique needs. But this is a great place to start to give you some structure. When thinking “do I need this?” you can reference this list. If it’s not on the list, you probably don’t need it.
Who it’s for: the list is designed for women planning any kind of travel except camping (which understandably requires different gear.) It’s not for family travel. (I have kids, and have to pack differently when we travel with the kids, and that kind of packing is more unique to each family situation.)
For some list items, I provide links to examples of the item or suggested items for your convenience. Some of these links may be affiliate links allowing me to earn a small fee through the link at no cost to you. This post is not sponsored. As always, all opinions are my own and are not for sale.
The List
Here it is: the last minimalist packing list you’ll ever need.
The Bags
1 Main carry-on bag. All other bags listed will be able to fit inside, should you need to deem this as your “personal item” for some particularly strict airlines. My sister recommends a leather or vegan leather backpack with a patterned lining (for fun and good visibility). While the exact bag my sister recommends is no longer available, you may want to check out this canvas option. Another option (and the one I prefer) is rolling carry-on luggage. I find rolling luggage generally better for my back and shoulder health, but it can be annoying to traverse a lot of cobblestone with a rolling bag. Either way you go, make sure your bag’s measurements fit your airline’s carry-on bag size specifications.
1 Slim cross body bag. A small bag to carry essentials like phone, wallet, and passport. Something that can leave your hands free.
1 Small press-closure clear quart size bag for liquids and toiletries that may leak. A Ziploc bag will do, with various airlines and aviation rules giving their own guidelines (check before you travel). I’ve been testing these Full Circle reusable plastic bags for about a year for snacks, and they have done well as a more sustainable option than disposable plastic bags. I used them to pack liquids and toiletries on an international trip and they did well.
2 Packing cubes. Too much bag organization is a waste of time, but a little is just right. I like to put my pajamas and other bedtime essentials, usually the first things I reach for when arriving, tired, at a new location, in one packing cube. You can choose what you put in the second packing cube, but I don’t recommend using more than two for the sake of saving time spent packing and unpacking.
Necessities
These are the absolute essentials for travel: ID and money. You won’t get far without them. In fact, arguably a passport and money are the only things you really need to travel internationally, as anything else you forget can be purchased easily. My necessities list includes a few more things as well.
1 passport,
1 alternate ID,
1 debit card/atm card
2 Credit Cards
100 USD, euro or local currency in cash
1 smart phone and charger
1 international plug adapter
1 small journal or sketch book and pen or pencil
1 mask if traveling with a cough or respiratory infection
Tops and Dresses
Let’s move on to clothing. We’ve recommended colors below, but of course you can choose your own colors, as long as everything goes together.
Bottoms
1 pair of blue jeans
1 pair of black jeans
1 pair of athletic /technical black leggings or yoga pants (I’ve been wearing these, hemmed for my shorter legs, for years. The Polygiene odor® control really works, so you can get away with laundering them less frequently than other leggings.)
1 pair of soft / lounge black leggings or sweatpants (You could go for a fleece-lined legging, or anything soft that doesn’t have a polyester or technical feel. You want a pair so comfortable you could lounge and sleep in them if need be. Here’s a highly rated pair.)
Shoes
1 pair of waterproof (or at least water resistant) hiking or running shoes
1 pair of walking boots (paddock or combat style)
1 pair waterproof slides (I have purchased these sandal slides several times and am wearing them right now).
Outerwear & Accessories
1 black thin synthetic down jacket
1 black snow coat or parka (if going to a cold or snowy climate)
1 scarf
You could go with something like the charcoal infinity scarf my sister is wearing in the photo or substitute the more versatile peshtemal, or Turkish towel. Have you ever used a Turkish towel? It’s a pile less (no terry cloth loops) quick-drying, absorbent towel that gets softer with each wash. I’ve been using them for years since my sister introduced me to them. I love how soft they feel and how they treat my hair - fewer breakages than when drying with terry cloth. On trips I’ve discovered that they double or triple as scarves, sarongs, beach towels, and light blankets. I love to tie one on as a beach or pool cover up, or roll them up to make a scarf.
1 knit hat (bright color)
1 pair sunglasses
1 silver bangle, or other preferred jewelry
3 silver rings, or other preferred jewelry
Intimates & swimwear
1 set of flannel pj's
3 pairs of wool socks (recommended)
3 pairs of cotton socks
8 pairs of undies (recommended)
3 bras (1 black, 1 nude, 1 sport)
1 swimsuit
Toiletries (health & grooming)
Toilet article kits are highly individual, but here are some suggestions.
tooth brush
toothpaste (to try: solid toothpaste tablets)
dental floss
refillable water bottle
solid shampoo - doubles as bar soap
solid conditioner - some find conditioner doubles as a shaving cream
moisturizer (any liquids must comply with airport security regulations)
SPF 30 stick or cream (any liquids must comply with airport security regulations)
any medications, vitamins, or supplements you need
menstrual cup - I’m a fan of the saalt soft
menstrual pads (see my blog post on sustainable period products, or go with disposables)
nail clippers
disposable razor (if you want to shave)
a bit of makeup if you like (any liquids must comply with airport security regulations)
small hair brush or comb and hair elastics (my favorite type).
Your Turn!
Use this list to pack for your next trip. Now, go get packing, and have a great trip!
If you loved this post, “heart” it using the button below, and if you want to share it, there’s a button for that too. Please share this blog as a way of helping others simplify their own packing for better, easier travel.
Travel The World Indefinitely Packing List
To: Everywhere and AnywhereTrip Duration: Undefined
Originally Published June 2012.
This is the dream list, not the real list. I enjoy variety in clothes and shoes too much to be this minimalist, but I'm getting here one step at a time and one multi-use item discovery at a time.
The Two Bags
One carry on size back pack
One cross-body smaller bag, purse, or hip-bag for holding money, papers, small camera, etc.
Electronics
Small laptop/netbook, cables, extra battery
All necessary adapters and battery chargers
Small camera & case
Phone/Ipad/Iphone /kindle? For entertainment, reading, skyping?
Doorstop alarm (or plastic door stop)
Earphones/headphones
Kindle and charger
Random But Important
Passport (with copies of all documents with trusted folks back hom)
Credit cards/debit cards
Cash
ID
Travel documents
Paper notebook
Pencil, pen
Jumping rope or parachute cable
Can opener
Flashlight
Small matches
Granola bar
2-3 gallon ziploc bags
Very small cable lock
Small travel candle
Vitamins and/or emercenG
Scissors
tape
Toiletries
Deodorant
Toothbrush
Fingernail clippers (share)
Comb
Solid shampoo/soap from Lush
Razor for shaving
Sexessories
Lip balm - burts bees spf 8 (share)
Tweezers
Face/body wipes (share)
Solid perfume
Travel GLO brush
GLO basic makeup pressed powder
Solid eyeliner- brown
GLO quadri-color eyes and cheeks
Band-aids (share)
Advil (share)
Eyebrow comber/thin brush
Small, super-absorbent towel (share)
Lunette
Pantiliners
Liquids (limited)
Hair conditioner for hair and shaving
Nail polish
Jojoba oil (trader joes) for moisturizing
Toothpaste (share)
Waterproof Mascara
Face cleanser (share)
Acne spot cream
Small concealer
SPF (recomended riemann once a day spf 20) (share)
Neosporin (share)
Wardobe - Medium Climate
Underthings
One strapless bra
One sports bra that doubles as a bikini top
One regular bra (wear)
Four pairs of underwear, one that doubles as a bikini bottom (wear one)
Three pairs of light-weight socks
black stockings, one pair
Accessories
Inexpensive/hard to steal jewelry
Lightweight hair accessories/headbands
Hair bands
Hair pins
Watch
Running shoes
Ballet Flats (good for walking)
Medium weight scarf
One warm hat
Belt in the same color as my ballet flats
Sunglasses
Clothes
Black tee
Black skirt
Black icebreaker bodyfit crew top
Nightgown
Long colorful broomstick skirt (wear as skirt or dress)
Light-weight jeans
yoga pants - dark color
Black workout shorts
One quick-drying workout top
One spagetti strap tank top
One long (tunic-dress) tee shirt
One tank top
Light weight trench coat with waterproof coating for travel
Emergency rain pain poncho (plastic)
Cold and/or Wet Climate Alterations
Boots instead of ballet flats (boots with caribiners)
Additional two pairs of heavy socks
Waterproof jacket with hood or warmer rain poncho
Gloves or mittens
Heavier weight scarf
Additional vest like ExOfficia women's convertible vest
Switch out warm cap to a extra warm hat with ear area warmth
Thermal underwear (long johns)
Switch out nightgown for warm pajama set
Hot Climate and/or Beach/Tropical Alterations
Flipflops instead of ballet flats
Additional swimsuit
Sarong/scarf instead of medium weight scarf
Sun hat instead of warm hat
Skip long yoga/travel pants
For more fantasy packing fun, check out my Pinterest board, What to Pack to Travel the World.
What About You?
Is there anything I left off that you think should be on there? Could you travel with this list? Need more? Need less?
Adventures in the Antarctic (and what to pack)
Note: This is a guest post by Christine Bernasconi, a professional photographer, blogger, avid traveler and people lover. I'm really excited she's sharing her 2013 adventures in the Antarctic with the Packing Lust Community. I hope you enjoy! --Genevieve
Going to the Antarctic was always a dream of mine since I was 5 years old :) I'm not exactly sure why I had this dream at such a young age. I just remember looking at books and giving my Dad the 'Scott' book {not sure which one} for a birthday one year.
It obviously started something for me.
It way exceeded my expectations and I feel humble and blessed that I've had the privilege of experiencing this awesome part of our planet.
It really was the trip of my dreams. Whales, seals, penguins (lots of them) birds, beautiful landscapes and icebergs – I really, really loved the icebergs.:)
_MG_8730
We organised our trip through Quark (click here if you’re in the States) or Peregrine in Australia (click here).
We booked the ‘Crossing the Circle’ Tour which was 14 days aboard the ‘Sea Spirit.’ – a beautiful ship. Well appointed spacious rooms, an open bar :), dining room, theatre lounge, a library, gym, a hot tub, gift shop and lots of deck areas to relax and take in the sights. The service? Seamless. Nothing was a chore for the staff and everything was done with a smile.
A zodiac heading back towards the Sea Spirit
A zodiac heading back towards the Sea Spirit
The Sea Spirit
The Sea Spirit
The ship carried 114 passengers of which 49 of them were Australian. Being such a small group meant great friendships were formed early. We were all linked by the same thread – an adventurous nature and the desire to experience the Antarctic. I met people from all over the world. I know I will remain friends with some of them forever. We all shared something very special.
Our voyage left from Ushuaia (the bottom of Argentina) and it was a two day trip to the Antarctic Peninsula across the Drake Passage. I loved watching the mainland of Argentina disappear behind us. To me it felt like a true adventure. We explored many bays, islands and channels of the Antarctic Peninsula over the 14 days of our voyage.
Leaving Ushuaia and the South American Continent behind
Leaving Ushuaia and the South American Continent behind
The most amazing part of the trip however (besides the scenery) was the service and professionalism provided by the expedition leader and her team. Cheli is a true leader and a wonderful, passionate individual. All of her staff have an expertise, whether it be birds, whales, glaciers, photography or history. They have all done many similar trips and their experience and knowledge is second to none.
Each day in the Oeanus lounge, one of them would present a lecture on a particular aspect of the Antarctic – marine mammals, the great Antarctic explorers or sea birds – just to name a few. There were even some documentary movies about this fascinating part of the world. It was wonderful to be educated and to hear them speak so passionately.
Most nights one of the expedition staff would sit at your dinner table to get to know you and mix with the passengers. This really personalised the trip and within a few days, they were also friends.
Each day we usually had two zodiac expeditions to an island or part of the Antarctic mainland. Getting everyone in and out of the zodiacs plus keeping everyone safe and informed was handled brilliantly by the expedition staff.
Each disembarkation and embarkation meant going through a disinfection process (you had to step in a solution) to protect the fragile environment.
These outings were fantastic. Whilst you saw lots of scenery from the ship, getting out on the water, feeling the wind in your face and observing the scenery and wildlife from this low perspective was awesome :)
Hootin along...
Hooting along
Every single island or mainland excursion offered something individual. The landscape was always vastly different, and yes, there were always penguins :)
_MG_0556
I never tired of looking at the endless beauty that surrounded us. I loved being on the shore and exploring. Lots of the islands had relics from days gone bye – old whaling boats and whaling stations, whale bones and huts that would have housed the brave people that spent part of their lives living here.
An old hut - Deception Island
An old hut – Deception Island
The wildlife was spectacular. Albatross flying at the back of the ship, humpback whales, Minke whales and even Orca’s! Wedell, Leopard and Crabeater seals and of course, penguins. Sometimes these animals were seen from the decks of the Sea Spirit. At other times you were up close and personal with these animals in the zodiacs.
Imagine being in a zodiac – drifting through the brash ice – icebergs all around you and a humpback surfaces around 50 metres away? What a scene. Absolute magic.
This humpback whale was so close to our zodiac...
This humpback whale was so close to our zodiac…
_MG_8260
Look at the size of him…
So close...
So close…
The Albatross. What a magnificent bird
The Albatross. What a magnificent bird.
The staff organised trivia games, we danced the night away a couple of times , met the Captain at the ‘Cocktail Party’ and I got ‘over enthusiastic’ in an auction to raise money for the penguins (I really wanted that Antarctic water.)
Other nights we sat in the bar talking to our new friends over a glass of wine (or two) – well, you couldn’t go to bed early as there was up to 18 hours of light per day!
We celebrated Australia Day on board with a BBQ up on deck and one patriotic Australian had our flag – I certainly won’t forget Australia Day 2013 in a hurry!
I also participated in ‘The Polar Plunge’ – yes, you could dive into the Southern Ocean (with a rope tied around your waist) to experience the ‘coolish’ waters of the Antarctic. Yep, I did this too. Click here to read about that adventure.
I slept a night on the ice – yes, I did. You can also read about that here :)
I also also slid down a mountain at Neko Harbour (it was so much fun, I felt like a 5 year old)
Yours truly...
Yours truly…
One of the highlights (there were so many) was Crossing the Antarctic Circle. That was a great day. The weather was really cold (-2) and it was a fantastic to think we were at 66 deg 33’44′ S. To mark this occasion, the crew organised a fantastic event called ‘Kiss the Fish’. We all grouped outside on the bow of the ship to Cross the Circle and the crew dressed up in various ‘fishy’ style outfits. King Neptune was there and we all had to ‘Kiss the Fish’ before being given a red mark on our foreheads which denoted ‘Crossing the circle.’ One word – hilarious – especially kissing a frozen fish!!
Me, taking a pic and kissing the fish
Me, taking a pic and kissing the fish
The most common question I’ve been asked since being home is ‘How cold was it’? On the warmest day it was 8 degrees and the coldest -2. Nowhere near as bad as I thought. The only time I felt really cold was on the ‘crossing the circle day’ and at times in the zodiacs when we were going a little faster than the normal trawling speed. Quark supplies you with a parka (yours to take home) that really does the job. They also lend you ‘boots’ for the duration of the trip. These are used every time you leave the ship.
For anyone that's going on one of these trips, here is what I took with me…..
All the sea sick medication I could find (travel calm, the wrist bands, ginger tablets) – It worked for me, I took one travel calm the first night – just in case and a couple of other ‘rougher’ sea days wore the wrist bands – all good.
2 sets of thermals – bought from the Kathmandu store – black bottoms and pink/black/white and blue/black/white long sleeve tops.
2 really warm zip up hoodies – one from Kathmandu and the other from the gift shop on the ship.
4 pairs of super warm socks (Kathmandu store.)
2 pairs of warm track suit pants.
A warm hat.
2 pairs of water proof gloves (only ever wore one pair) and they were too cumbersome to take pics with, so I bought a fingerless pair from the gift shop on the ship.
A warm sleeveless vest (bought from a shop in Ushuaia.)
Waterproof pants – if you're an Aussie, you will pay a fortune at home for these. I bought them in Ushuaia the day before we left at around $50AUD – bargain – (there were plenty of sizes and choices and plenty of shops selling this gear in Ushuaia.)
Check out the sunny weather...on this day I just had a tshirt on under a hoodie...
Check out the sunny weather…on this day I just had a tshirt on under a hoodie…
Each day when we went on a shore excursion off the boat I wore…
A thermal top and bottom and trackpants over the thermals.
Waterproof pants over the track pants (the track pants tucked INTO the boots.)
A warm sleeveless vest over the thermals or, if I felt a bit colder a long sleeve hoodie.
2 pairs of socks (always.)
The parka, hat and gloves.
Here I am in one of my 'thermal tops'
Here I am in one of my ‘thermal tops’
On the ship (which was as warm as toast) I wore…
Jeans and a tshirt and sometimes a hoodie. I dressed up one night for the Captains cocktail party (if you call a skirt and top seriously dressing up.)
Closed in shoes (my rockports.)
Back in Buenos Aires and Santiago I wore….
shorts and tshirts (super humid.)
So if you’re interested in going and want to know more – I'm gonna have to come with you to show you the ropes :)
Please feel free to contact me in the comments section below or on Facebook , twitter or pinterest.
Me in action...
Me in action
Top 5 Packing Tips for A Long-Term Mission Trip
This is part one of a guest post by Thomaida Hudanish, a blog reader and traveler who I met when she came to Palestine as part of the trip she talks about in this post. Stay tuned for part two which will be published in early November. Enjoy. - Genevieve
Type of Trip:
Extended Volunteer/Mission Trip/Pilgrimage a.k.a. Around-the-World-to- Help-Children
Length of Trip:
Indefinite
Destinations:
India, the Middle East, Western Europe
Overview
In November 2013, I set off for a trip to volunteer with Orthodox Christian ministries in various places, beginning with an orphanage outside of Kolkata, India and continuing to a school in the West Bank, Palestine. While I packed with the intention of continuing to volunteer after these first two assignments, instead I returned to the United States via a 5-week tour of France, Germany & England, to seize a job opportunity in line with the same goals and mission that inspired me to take this journey.
Tips
1. Two Kinds.
Rick Steves says that there are two kinds of travelers: those who packed light and those who wish they had. I agree and I'm still in the second camp. As much as I wish that I could throw everything on my back and jump onto a moving train, that's not the kind of trip I planned and let's face it, that's not the kind of traveler I am. So, yes, PACK AS LIGHT AS YOU CAN. Then read on to learn why I'm still glad I brought more than I wanted to.
2. Tell Your Story.
I packed a letter-size laminated US/World map and an inexpensive, 20-pg photo album with pictures of friends, family members and everyday happenings in my life at home. These are two tools that helped me to share about my life and relate with new friends, in many cases across language barriers. Alternatively, you might consider making a little slide show to flip through on whatever electronic device you bring.
3. Compartmentalize
I'm a huge fan of packing sacks, regardless of brand. They help me to stay organized even after I settle into a location. The other thing I did was to create designated Ziploc bags for my office, first aid & medications and electronic accessories. For example, the "Office" bag held pen refills, a permanent marker, binder clips, a highlighter, sticky tack, post-its, and a glue stick. The "First Aid" bag had Bandaids, anti-diarrhea medication, vitamin-C packets, hydrocortizone cream and so on. Another Ziploc held chargers, plug converters, cords, and extra batteries. This way, even on the road, everything had a place. I also packed a few extra Ziplocs in varying sizes.
4. Fashion vs. Function
Knowing that my travel destinations could involve the beach, a formal event or a professional work setting, I had to plan for variety, but focus my packing on the known activities: playing with children and going to church. Long skirts were a must for the conservative cultures and monastic environments that I intended to be a part of, so I brought three. Additional favorites were: a merino wool pullover, a cream-colored long- sleeve shirt with some lace detail to help dress up some outfits, a lightweight henley with adjustable sleeve-length, black leggings, and a pair of comfortable, sturdy mary-jane style Privos. A daily moisturizer with SPF was the MVP of my cosmetics, but I also used a little makeup, sparkly hair accessories and earrings for special occasions.
5. Technology on the Road
I didn't want to lug my laptop around the world--what a hassle! As a writer, however, it's the one tool I used every day. I brought along an extra hard drive for biweekly backups and packed it in a separate bag from the laptop in case of theft. In addition to writing a blog, editing photos and keeping up with my family and friends via Skype, I used the laptop extensively in each volunteer position. I purchased a new camera for the trip because documenting my experiences for readers at home was a priority. My older point & shoot camera came along as backup for excursions involving sand, water or questionable security.
Another gadget I like for journeys big and small is the humble headlamp. It's great for reading in bed after you've crawled under the mosquito net for the night.
Thomaida wrote a series of articles about her 7-month volunteer pilgrimage covering India, Turkey, Israel/Palestine, France, Germany and England at www.honeybeebuzz.org. She lives, writes and dreams up new ways to make the world a better place in Portland, Oregon.
Packing for Someplace You Visit Frequently
Today's guest post comes to us from my Prince Charming, who generously offered up this advice after I generously complimented his speedy (ten minute) packing for a trip to Gaza. Considering it still takes me an hour to pack, I was impressed. He makes this trip to Gaza so frequently because he has a lot of work to do in the Gaza office of his organization; he sort of lives there for a few days every couple of weeks. This information will be helpful to you if you:
a) Often travel to the Gaza Strip. b) Often travel to any one location (for example, you travel to your sister's house every couple of weeks to accompany her to medical appointments). c) Are a minimalist international (or national) traveler.
How to Pack for a Split Life in Gaza
By Prince Charming
For a visit every two-three weeks, when you start traveling each time you come, bring at least one or two items you can leave behind. The things you leave behind should be
toiletries
a pair of jeans
a clean white t-shirt
pajamas
flip-flops or slippers
a hat
a sweater
extra socks
underwear
If you arrived as a minimalist and only have one of each of these things, slowly acquire cheap extras as you build up your Gaza closet. In an ideal world, if you will have lots of important meetings, it is good to leave a sports jacket or suit behind as well as a tie or two, one tone no fancy design, in blue, yellow, or red.
I brought in an extra flashlight, travel alarm clock, and two pictures of my wife (can I get a collective "awww" says Genevieve) for my bed stand.
Once you’ve got a basic after-work attire settled there, all you need to bring in is work attire. I usually stay 2 – 3 days at a time.
My usual clothes packing list is:
2 pair khakis
2 -3 pair socks and underwear (enough to leave at least one clean pair of each behind for the next visit)
2 t-shirts, exchange with the last one you left behind
1 Work sweater if winter
1 – 2 long sleeve knit shirts or button down depending on weather
1 jacket, casual if no special meetings planned
1 pair of shorts if summer
In the event that I have to stay longer than three days, there is a washing machine available.
I also bring:
dual-sim card cell phone (to cover the trip from Palestine-Israel-Palestine,)
Kindle
travel umbrella if looking like rain
reading glasses
a snack
R2-D2 (a small good luck token - see above photo)
my work laptop
phone charger or mini-usb cable for phone charging on laptop
I usually bring a phone charger, but that is only because I’ve been too lazy to pick one up in Gaza. An even easier approach is to bring a mini-usb cable and charge the phone through my laptop. A travel speaker such as our Jawbone is good if going for a longer visit. I take the projector from my office and use it with my laptop and speaker to watch movies in the evening.
Of course, you can assess the local market and buy within Gaza as needed too if you don’t want to shuttle items back and forth. I bought a chess set and cards locally for the guesthouse in case anyone else is staying aside from me and wants to play a match. You can get a pocket knife locally as well; don’t bring one across the border, and don’t bring any spirits either.
Having done this, it now takes me ten minutes to pack for Gaza and for a while I was leaving with less than what I brought it.
Pack With Style
Your Basic Wardrobe
You may also enjoy my Pinterest board, What to Pack to Travel the World.
Clothes
- Little Black Skirt
- Little Black Tank
Together, they create an LBD look
- Trench Coat - great for wearing with the above LBD look. The classic trench coat is not meant to handle rain, but if you can get one that doubles as a rain coat, all the better.
- Cream V-neck Tee
- Classic Button up shirt - white is the standard color, but you can also pick any solid neutral color that flatters you: think grey, tan, gold, cream, etc. Pick a color that looks nice with your trench coat, as the trench and the collared button-up are a classic combo.
- Medium or Dark rinse jeans that make you look and feel great. Keep embellishments and trendy details to minimum.
- Jacket - Probably in black. find one that emphasizes your waist and makes you feel amazing. Style can be lapel, tuxedo, double-breasted, mandarin collar, whatever style suits you. I have a light black jacket in thick cotton. I can roll up the sleeve a little for a warmer day.
- "Business in the front, Party every where else" top - this is a top that can look modest in the front for wearing with a jacket in conservative parts of the world. It doubles as a cute flattering top for going out without the jacket. Maybe a silky backless halter top, a tee with cut outs, or an embellished tank?
- Black cotton yoga pants - for lounging and sleeping in - and doing yoga after a long day of tourism.
- Soft tee for sleeping. PJ preferences vary widely, but bring something super soft and comfy that is reserved for bedtime.
- Soft, long sleeved, high neckline shirt. For wearing in the cold or conservative religious areas.
I recommend one of the following, depending on your destination:
- Long, comfy skirt that goes with everything. - better in conservative places.
- Day dress - a super comfy mini dress, probably in cotton, that is easy to throw on for shopping, hitting the beach, or touring on a hot day. Can be worn with heels and jewelry for a night out. Ideally, it goes with your jacket and your trench coat. This is better for destinations where it is acceptable for women to show their legs.
If you are a runner or like to exercise, add:
- Long pants for running (shorts are not frequently seen in many parts of the world)
- Sports bra
- Running shoes
- Quick drying tank or tee.
Accessories
- Scarf - in almost any color or pattern. It should look good next to your face. Since most of your clothes are neutral tones, almost any kind of scarf should go. I like a pretty big scarf for doubling as a swimsuit cover up.
- Swim suits - two. Interchangeable bikinis are my favorite.
- Jewelry - I like to bring inexpensive, colorful statement jewelry, plus a couple of special delicate things that add a little shimmer.
- Cap - keep your heat in your head on those cold nights. Consider a sunhat for desert and beach locations.
- Big sunglasses - big, dark sunglasses are a great for so many reasons. They protect your eyes, and the skin on your face from wrinkles and sun damage. They provide privacy from staring eyes in parts of the world where ladies that look like you are a rare sight.
- Optional for rainy locations: Umbrella or rain poncho.
Foundation Wear
- 1 black bra
- 1 skin-toned bra
- As many pairs of clean socks as you want. (This is a personal pet peeve of me and Prince Charming's we both like to have clean, dry socks to change into anytime. If your feet are happy, the rest of you is happy.)
- 1 black thong
- 1 skin toned thong
- 1 black underwear
- 1 skin-toned underwear
Get your underwear in in quick-drying material (hanky panky is the is the best brand - quick drying, long-lasting, and very comfortable). I recommend thongs because they dry even faster (overnight) and you can do a quick sink wash and have clean, dry knickers in the morning.
Shoes
1. One pair of calf high or knee high boots (for walking in cool weather). You should be able to wear them with a skirt, dress, or jeans. No heel for comfort (unless you are one of those rare people who can do everything in heels - in which case, go ahead!)
2. One pair of beach-appropriate sandals - I have a pair of gold flip flops that I feel comfortable walking around a city in, and also getting wet and sandy on the beach. A better option would probably be something that stays closer to my foot (to keep rocks and dirt further from my feet). Something like a gladiator sandal or Birkenstocks or Tivvas. However, I haven't been able to find anything that has met my aesthetic sensibilities as well as my gold flip flops.
3. One pair of going out shoes. You'll be able to go out at night to casual venues in any of your shoes (except your running shoes) but optionally, pack a special pair with a heel. Anything you want.
Options:
- Classic black heels
- Eye-catching Red heels
- Strappy gold heels
- Turqoise Peep-toes with a kitten-heel
- Espadrilles (a super summery option)
4. One pair of cute walking shoes. I saved the most challenging for last. My style-friendly pick would be a sturdy ballet flat. Make sure there is a good buffer between your soles and the hard, rocky street.
Other options:
- a classic sneaker, from Converse or Puma, for example.
- A flat, lace up ankle boot.
- Comfy leather sandals.
- Peep-toe flats (especially in a hot climate).
For versatility, this shoe should look good with a skirt, dress, and jeans. Your choice will depend on your body type and personal style.
I hope this helps you have fun with fashion while having a light bag.
Packing Ideas on Pinterest
I've recently updated my packing list ideas board on Pinterest. It's a great resource that's updated as I find clothes and things that might be useful or beautiful for traveling. Check it out here.
Minimizing Makeup
Happiness is a light makeup bag.
- 1. Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunblock SPF 30: Sunscreen is an always-must-use. Every single day. I make sure to put a double dose it on places that face the noon sun: the top of my nose, my shoulders, and my boobs on a perky day. I'm looking for a better sun cream since this one smells chemically and feels bad on my skin.
- 2. Concealer: This is a little container of the remainder of a large tube I had before I left. It is Sheer Tint Base from Glo. A little goes a long way. The original tube lasted over a year. I really like this product.
- 3. Vaseline: The Queen of multi-use products.
- I use this on my lips before lip color,
- Then I blend a little lip color with some Vaseline in my palm and use it as a cheek stain.
- I use it to groom my brows.
- I use it on small cuts or dry hangnails.
- I use it to remove eye make up.
- 1. Red color stick: This is an organic Zuzu Luxe lipliner in Hazelnut that I bought at Whole Foods in LA. It works great on top of Vaseline on the lips and as a cheek stain when blended with Vaseline.
- 2. Eyelash curler: Revlon, I think.
- 3. Brow Tweezers: Revlon. Also good for splinters and picking up very tiny things.
- 4. Brow/eye liner brush tool: I can use this to groom my browns and remove clumps of mascara. I use the other end to apply:
- 5. Gel eyeliner: Maybelline Eye Studio, in brown. I just smudge it on with the small slanted brush mentioned above and it seems somewhat waterproof.
- 6. Rimmel Volume Accelerator Mascara: In extreme black. Ick. I don't like this formula. It clumps my lashes together. When I run out I will try something else.
- 7. GloMinerals Revive Hydration Mist: This is a luxury item that my sister gave me, but for me it replaces powder as a setting agent and feels much better than powder in this hot, dry season. It smells and feels nice to spritz on at the end of doing make up.
Perfume to me does not count as make up. I'll have to do another post about my perfume needs, er, desires.
Finally, these are the products I use daily, but I brought more with me, and I haven't gotten rid of them… yet. I don't know if I will since, like jewelry, cosmetics don't take up much space and provide variety in looks when one's clothing choices are slim due to bag space.
The Real Packing List
To: The Middle EastTrip Duration: Two Years
So this list, which leaves out those non-essential in the boxes, is what I brought with me on the plane, the Real Packing List. (Not what I affectionately refer to as the Travel the World Indefinitely Packing List, which is even more minimal and is aspirational for me at this point).
First, a photo of almost everything (except for what I mention below) that went into two checked bags:
- One long, multicolored skirt.
- Black skirt, knee length, classic
- Black skirt, calf length, vintage silk lace
- Reversible quick-drying work-out & yoga pants
- Multi-colored dress, knee length
- Black jacket, heavy cotton blend, double breasted style
- Pink and grey workout jacket, quick drying, sporty
- Grey cardigan, long, basic
- Tan sweater, cropped
- Black cardigan, short sleeved, flowy
- Blue silk scarf, Mozart print
- Pink umbrella, travel size
- Ivory tee, v-neck
- Black tank
- Tan tank
- Black tee, scoop neck
- White hat, wide brimmed
- Black hat, ball cap
- Regular bra
- Strapless bra
- Lingerie
- 12 pairs knickers
- Two bikinis, interchangable colors, bikini bottoms double as knickers
- 5-7 pairs socks
- Black belt, skinny, woven
- Tan and black belt, wide
- Sunglasses
- Gold flip flops
- Silver heels
- Red hand bag
- Two neck stashes (one I'm bringing to my prince)
- Two blank journals
- Clothes drying cords, Rick Steves brand
- Assorted kitchen-ware for my prince
- Tape
- Scissors
- Pens
- Pencils
- Checkbooks
- Small flashlight
- Camera lens cover (bringing for my prince)
- Assorted CD's (mostly for learning Arabic)
- Camera
- Video camera
- Assorted cables for: phone, Kindle, camera
- Batteries
- Plug adaptors
- Assorted jewelry
- Assorted hair accessories
- Pantiliners
- Lunette (way better than pads or tampons in so many ways, ladies)
- Small microfiber towel
- Two nighties
- Blue robe, vintage silk
- Assorted toiletries: makeup, wet wipes, skincare, sexessories, etc.
And this is what I kept out until the last minute (plane outfit, workout clothes and shoes) and the things that went in my carry-on:
- Running/hiking shoes
- sports bra (doubles as bikini top)
- Black & white tank top, halter, quick-drying fabric
- Black shorts, quick drying fabric
- Mesh bag for dirty laundry
- Laptop and charger
- Mousepad
- Mouse
- Phone & Charger
- Razor
- Yellow pad of paper
Then there's what I wore on the plane:
- Red tank with shelf bra
- Red and white striped t-shirt, flowy scoop neck
- turquoise necklace
- Dark rinse jeans, wide-leg high-waist trouser style
- Black and tan ballet flats
All that's left to list is what I carried on with me:
- Travel documents (passport, forms, etc)
- Wallet with cash, CA drivers license, debit cards, coins
- Black Moleskine journal
- Kindle
- Cell phone
- Cell phone charger
- toothbrush
- small makeup kit
- toothpaste
- hand moisterizer
- comb
- one pair of socks
- extra pair of knickers
- My prince's old sweater-shirt for warmth and snuggling
And that concludes the real list!
Things I'm Leaving Out Until the Last Minute
Things I am leaving out of the bags I'm packing for the Middle East move until the very last minute:
- Phone and charger
- Journal
- Kindle
- Computer, mouse, etc.
- Wear-on-plane outfit
- toothbrush
It's a very basic list, but writing this list down helped me decide what to pack first. I was feeling overwhelmed and not sure where to start, so I sat down and created this short list before I could move on to the big list. The point here is that packing to go abroad for two years is a big job; to make it a little less daunting, divide it up into small parts and promise yourself a break after completing just one of those small parts.