So.... I have 11 days annual leave away from my full time job as General Manager, so this means I have some time to write blogs and run The Lifestyler (www.thelifestyler.co.uk) :)
I am having a lovely day so far. It started with a professional make-over by my very talented sister Jess. www.jessicamillsmakeup.co.uk. Jess went for a natural day look with a slight smokey eye. It was lovely to be pampered on my birthday. I then went to the hairdressers for a quick cut and blow dry.
Later on today I am having a meal with my family and then I am off to Devon for one night with Mr B. We are hoping to visit The Angel in Dartmouth, a Michelin starred restaurant on the harbour (which I will probably write a post about next time). My little trip away gave me some inspiration to write about packing. If like me you end up taking the whole contents of your life away with you and you need some tips on "packing light" have a butchers on this:
Tip 1
Good Luggage is Key
It is a good idea to invest in a strong, light, wheeled suitcase that has lots of pockets. Try a reputable brand like Antler. I like this Union Jack medium case (very Jubilee inspired - but probably not the best for a business trip!).
http://www.antler.co.uk/luggage/medium-suitcases/antler-union-jack-medium-case
Good luggage will expand when you need it to, will keep your clothes safe and neat, is easy to wheel around, is light, easy to maneuver and to spot. It doesn't even need to be expensive.
Tip 2
Think your outfits through
Now that we have the luggage covered, on to the actual packing. A lot of people just throw everything in, thinking that they may need that particular item. In today's world of baggage fees and lost luggage - this tactic just won't do.
Chart out the number of days you are away for, and the number of outfits per day that you will need. Something casual during the day, and some "going out" clothes and accessories for the evening. If you plan what you are going to wear than there is less room for "ooohh I MIGHT need this top that I haven't worn for about 3 years!".
Pack versatile day-to-night items that you can dress up or down, whatever the circumstance.
Tip 3
Think your Airport/Travel Outfit Through
Try wearing the heaviest or bulkiest items on the day you travel - this in turn gives you some precious extra space in your case. Also these items are usually the comfiest (jeans, jumpers etc) and will keep you warm on the plane or in the car. Try not to wear too much jewellery (unless you want to be frisked by airport security!).
Tip 4
Don't Bring Too Many Pairs of Shoes
Shoes are heavy and bulky. Also the amount of pairs you pack depends on the length and type of your stay. For a weekend city trip I would probably take some flip flops, wedge heels (for the evening) and perhaps some comfy pumps for sightseeing. It really is up to you but try to wear the most heavy pair whilst travelling. Roll socks and pop accessories into your shoes so no empty space goes unused.
Tip 5
Keep it Organised
I obviously would include this tip as I organise things as part of my business, however a little thought can save you a lot of hassle later on.
- Use packing cubes like these above from Lifeventure. They keep your clothes near and organised - really useful http://www.lifeventure.co.uk/htm/ultralite/packing-cubes.html
- Things that crease easily pack at the bottom of your luggage with less wrinkle-prone items on the top.
- Put your shoes (stuffed with socks and undies) in shoe bags at the bottom of your case
- Pop all your jewellery in a clutch bag
Once you have packed just enjoy your holiday feeling so much more organised and ready to party!.
Hope this has been useful - have a fabulous holiday whether you are enjoying a "staycation" like me or going somewhere more exotic.
Olivia x
