Stepping onto the plane, my goal was clear: to conquer a 7-day adventure across two distinct regions of France (with a bonus stop in Germany!) armed with nothing more than a duffel bag and a single purse. And there I stood at the airport, freshly dropped off by John, who captured this triumphant moment. Yes, just a purse and my trusty duffel bag. I had done it, and impressively, I even had room to spare!
As a devoted advocate for the power of a minimal wardrobe (you can delve deeper into that philosophy here), I can confidently declare a profound truth: mastering the art of maximizing your style options without lugging your entire closet is an absolute game-changer for any traveler. This approach transforms travel from a logistical burden into a seamless, enjoyable experience. My recent European adventure, my very first to the continent, was proof positive that this method ensures you forget nothing while gaining everything – freedom, flexibility, and peace of mind. For those already embracing a similar packing mindset, welcome to the club of savvy travelers!
The advantages of packing light extend far beyond merely avoiding baggage check fees and the stress of lost luggage. Opting for a compact duffel bag like mine often means you bypass the common inconvenience of gate-checking, which frequently befalls standard carry-on rolling suitcases on full flights. This small but significant detail saves valuable time upon arrival, allowing you to disembark and begin your adventure without waiting at the carousel. Beyond the practicalities, traveling with less imbues a sense of liberation, making navigation through bustling airports, public transportation, and charming cobblestone streets remarkably easier and more enjoyable. It minimizes decision fatigue, allowing you to focus on the experience rather than your belongings.
A quick but crucial note: this packing guide is designed to inspire, not dictate. While I’m sharing my personal strategy and the specific items that worked for me, the beauty of this method lies in its adaptability. You can absolutely infuse your own style and preferences into these principles. My aim is to illustrate how an intentional packing approach allows for tremendous flexibility and variety from a relatively small collection of items. Every piece I brought served multiple purposes and was worn, ensuring no item journeyed across the world only to return unworn. This isn’t about restriction; it’s about thoughtful selection.
Also, prepare for some truly questionable outfit poses in the mirror. My attempts at capturing these looks often result in what can only be described as a sudden inability to use my hands naturally. Please feel free to have a good laugh and then swiftly banish them from your memory. Some things, it seems, never change! #awkwardposepro
My European Adventure: A Week of Diverse Experiences
For those who might have missed my Instagram Stories last month, my recent trip to France was an unforgettable painting retreat alongside 14 incredible women. This magical experience was expertly hosted by the exceptionally talented artist Jessi Raulet, known by her vibrant brand Ettavee, who resides in the beautiful city of Strasbourg. Jessi, in collaboration with the amazing Liz Lidgett, truly brought this entire journey to life.
It’s important to note that I funded this trip entirely myself; it was not sponsored in any way. For a comprehensive look at my experiences, including many highlights from Strasbourg, the spa town of Baden-Baden in Germany, and the iconic city of Paris, you can find an archived story titled “France Trip” under our IG profile. Simply scroll to the right, and it will be one of the circles beneath our bio.
A huge shout-out goes to Elsie Larson, who bravely agreed to join me after a single-sentence pitch outlining why we absolutely had to go. My heartfelt thanks also extend to all the other wonderful women I had the pleasure of meeting on this journey. And to my incredible husband, a special tip of the hat for his unwavering support: “You have to do this. We will be fine. Go have the best time!” His encouragement made this truly a trip of a lifetime, leaving me feeling profoundly inspired and creatively recharged. Cue all the magical twinkle emojis!
To truly appreciate the versatility of my packing strategy, it’s essential to understand the sheer diversity of activities packed into those 7 days abroad. It was quite the eclectic mix, demanding a flexible wardrobe for every occasion:
- Multiple painting sessions in an art studio, requiring comfortable, practical attire.
- An immersive walking food-and-wine tour, perfect for stylish yet comfortable walking shoes.
- Exploring a grand cathedral, where a respectful but chic ensemble was fitting.
- Relaxing soaks in pools and saunas at a luxurious spa in Germany, necessitating a swimsuit.
- An energetic African dance class, calling for proper workout clothes and sneakers.
- An enchanting evening riverboat cruise, requiring something a bit more refined, perhaps layered for warmth.
- Numerous casual meals at local eateries, where my mix-and-match basics shone.
- One truly fancy meal at a Michelin five-star restaurant, demanding an elevated outfit.
- Miles of adventurous flea market hunting in the charming streets of Paris with Elsie, calling for durable and comfortable walking gear.
- And much more, including getting a few new tiny tattoos (which thankfully didn’t require any specific outfit planning!).
From casual everyday outfits with essential top layers for warmth and comfortable shoes to specialized items like a bathing suit for the German spa and workout gear for the dance class, a lot of ground was covered. My minimalist packing approach ensured I was perfectly prepared for every single experience without feeling overburdened.
My Curated Carry-On: What I Packed for Versatility
Contrary to popular belief, “packing light” doesn’t mean sacrificing options; it means packing smart. My duffel bag, while compact, was brimming with carefully selected pieces designed for maximum versatility. The secret lies in a strategic approach, ensuring every item can be mixed, matched, and layered to create a multitude of looks. I consciously chose items that could transition seamlessly from day to night, from casual exploration to a formal dinner.
My intentional packing list included 3 pairs of shoes, 3 purses, 3 dresses, 2 pairs of jeans, and 3 jackets. This might sound like a lot for a single duffel, but the magic happens when you pair them strategically. Adding to this foundation were 5 versatile tanks and a leopard sweater, providing endless layering possibilities. The core principle of my packing method is not about giving things up, but rather about pre-planning combinations. This involves figuring out what pieces complement each other *before* you leave, and crucially, identifying which bulkier items to wear on the plane to save precious bag space. An impressive 9 items detailed in the infographics below were worn on my body during travel, making it remarkably easy for everything else to fit comfortably in my duffel bag. More on that clever strategy in a moment.
Naturally, my duffel also contained essentials like underwear, socks, and pajamas – practical items that, while crucial, don’t typically earn a spot on a fashion infographic. Now, let’s dive into the first of my essential packing tips, focusing on organization.
Tip #1: Embrace the Power of Packing Cubes for Ultimate Organization
As you can see in the image below, I utilized four of these versatile packing cubes. They effortlessly fit into my duffel bag, serving as an organizational marvel, allowing me to categorize and contain my clothing. It’s truly remarkable how all the clothes I packed for this entire weeklong trip, including two pairs of shoes, were neatly organized within these cubes! Here’s a breakdown of what each one held:
- Bottom left: All my socks, underwear, my bathing suit, workout clothes, and comfortable PJs.
- Top left: My essential jean jacket, the stylish green blazer, all 3 dresses, and one pair of jeans.
- Top right: My incredibly comfortable stacked heel sandals, tucked away securely.
- Bottom right: My 4 versatile tanks, the cozy leopard sweater, and a pair of Rothy’s flats, which proved invaluable.
Note: These quantities don’t add up to the total number of items I listed earlier because they exclude the items I cleverly wore on my body during travel – a strategy we’ll discuss in more detail shortly.
For many, packing cubes might initially seem like a trendy, unnecessary gadget. After all, travelers managed without them for decades. However, once I incorporated them into my routine, they became INCREDIBLY HELPFUL. The primary benefit is the elimination of rummaging. No more digging frantically through a messy duffel to find that one item at the bottom! Instead, you simply pull out the designated cube – whether it’s for your PJs or socks – and retrieve what you need, without disturbing or unfolding anything else. They are also instrumental in maintaining order during the packing process itself, creating a systematic approach where everything has its place.
And for those curious about where my chargers, European plug converters, and even my two extra purses were stashed: my larger black purse (which served as my personal item on the plane) housed them all, along with my phone, wallet, passport, and other immediate travel necessities. This also included a small waterproof pouch with minimal toiletries – a folding toothbrush, small tubes of toothpaste and deodorant, and essential makeup like mascara and lip gloss. Having a large black purse, a smaller brown crossbody one (this brown leather one), and an even smaller black one (you can just glimpse it in the photo below, this black crossbody bag) allowed for, once again, a variety of stylish options that seamlessly paired with every outfit I brought. Three cheers for purse versatility!
You’ll notice two photos of me in this particular outfit, though unfortunately, my black crossbody bag remains somewhat elusive in this second shot. Rest assured, it is this specific bag if you’re curious! It proved to be the perfect companion for countless hours of exploring Paris flea markets in jeans. Having a small, zip-up bag worn in front of you is always a smart and secure choice for navigating bustling European cities like Paris, allowing you to keep a close eye on your essentials.
Tip #2: Strategize for Maximum Mix-and-Match Potential
With Tip #1 (PACKING CUBES!) successfully covered, let’s delve into the heart of my travel planning: how I meticulously curate my wardrobe before a trip. My fundamental strategy revolves around foresight and versatility. I literally try on outfits, and if I like a combination and want to bring those pieces, I challenge myself to envision at least two or three alternative ways to wear one or two of those items. The goal is to ensure every piece is a workhorse in your travel capsule.
For instance, bringing a jean jacket and a pair of sneakers might initially seem like bulky additions for just one outfit. However, if those same items can be effortlessly paired with a long, comfortable black dress, their value multiplies significantly. They transform from single-use items into versatile staples.
Moreover, if that same jean jacket and pair of sneakers can be worn again with a different dresson another day, they undeniably prove their worth as excellent staples, making multiple appearances throughout the trip. It’s also worth highlighting that both of these outfits could just as easily be paired with either of the other two shoe options I packed, illustrating the depth of this versatility. While I initially planned to wear sneakers with the long black dress, as pictured above…
…I actually ended up opting for my stacked-heel sandals that day. The weather was warmer than anticipated, and I simply wanted my toes out! This adaptability is precisely what makes this packing method so effective. And a special shout-out to the conveniently placed giant mirror by the hotel elevator, which became my impromptu photoshoot studio for these outfit pictures (when no one else was around, of course!).
My core message is this: I would never lay out seven distinct, complete outfits for a weeklong trip and then attempt to cram them into a suitcase, along with a few “just in case” fancy items or accessories. That’s the recipe for heavy, oversized luggage that necessitates checking – and inevitably, a suitcase full of unworn items. Instead, I approach packing by envisioning layers and “combo moves.”
The strategic choice of bringing three pairs of shoes (pointy flats, stacked heel sandals, and versatile sneakers) proved to be SO INCREDIBLY VERSATILE. The same goes for having three different purses and three dresses. Furthermore, two different blazers combined with a reliable jean jacket could be paired with any of my five different colored tanks and a patterned sweater. This modular approach significantly amplifies your wardrobe’s potential. Let’s do a quick calculation:
- My 3 packed dresses, each capable of being paired with any of the 3 jackets, immediately provided 9 distinct outfit options. Then, any of the 3 shoe options and any of the 3 purses could be added, leading to an astonishing number of permutations.
- Similarly, the 6 tops I brought (5 colored tank tops + 1 leopard sweater), when paired with the 3 different jackets, offered an additional 18 outfit options straight away. Again, I could then choose any of my 3 shoe options and any of my 3 purses. This demonstrates a multitude of “combo moves” at my disposal!
- In simpler terms, if each day involved choosing a tank, sweater, or dress (I had 9 base options) plus a jacket pairing (I had 3 options), I started with a foundation of 27 different outfit pairings. This doesn’t even account for the further customization offered by my 3 purse options and 3 shoe options.
This is precisely what I mean when I emphasize the flexibility of this packing method! It’s also why intentionality is paramount – ensuring that your outfits can effortlessly mix and match is far superior to bringing a jacket or a dress that only works with one specific item, or shoes that limit your outfit choices. Every piece should ideally work interchangeably with multiple others.
I must also acknowledge that someone with a bolder, more adventurous style could amplify this thesis even further. Imagine incorporating a vibrant floral dress, a checkered tank, or a bright red jacket into the mix. Add a super colorful pair of shoes, and the potential for diverse and fun options truly skyrockets. For my part, I tend to stick to more classic, neutral pieces, but the underlying principle remains the same.
It’s important to clarify that this method does not involve re-wearing dirty items repeatedly. My different colored tanks, worn under blazers and jackets (and my leopard sweater), were typically worn once, as were the dresses, socks, and underwear. So, if you notice me wearing a black tank both on the plane and in France, it’s because I packed a fresh one (along with a white, green, and taupe one). Tanks are truly a traveler’s best friend due to their minimal footprint in a suitcase. It’s only the outer layers, such as my jean jacket and blazers (I own my green one and a classic black one), that made multiple appearances, creating entirely new looks by simply changing what was worn underneath. This layering strategy is key to generating a multitude of styles from a compact wardrobe, as demonstrated below:
See what I mean? A simple swap of shoes and an inner tank, paired with a classic jacket or blazer, creates a refreshing deviation. Again, someone with a more vibrant aesthetic could easily transform this outfit dramatically by incorporating patterned tanks or a floral dress under the green jacket. The beauty is in making it uniquely yours.
As a personal preference, I’m also comfortable re-wearing jeans multiple times, as many experts recommend, but feel free to adjust this to your comfort level! Packing another pair or two of jeans would not derail this approach. In fact, I had so much excess room in my duffel that I was able to bring home a sizable painting I created during the retreat, along with an abundance of treats for the kids.
I understand that seeing two consecutive photos of my green blazer with different tanks and shoes might lead one to think, “Aren’t those outfits still quite similar?” It’s a bit like Clark Kent putting on his glasses – how could that possibly fool anyone? The crucial distinction, however, is that I wouldn’t wear the same green jacket two days in a row. When these outfits are interspersed among a mix of other looks, they feel significantly less repetitive. If you envision a week of clothing where I rotated through different dresses and incorporated outfits featuring the black blazer between these green jacket looks, you’d gain a more accurate and comprehensive picture of the wardrobe diversity. Picture a dynamic week of mix-and-match outfits looking something like this:
- Day 1: Travel in black blazer + black tank + jeans + sneakers + duffel/purse + bracelet
- Day 2: Green jacket + white tank + jeans + leopard flats + brown purse + sunglasses
- Day 3: Long black dress + denim jacket + sandals + black crossbody +sunglasses
- Day 3 (Outfit change for pools/spa): Bathing suit
- Day 4: Leopard sweater + 2nd jeans + sneakers + brown purse + bracelet
- Day 5: Short dress + denim jacket + sandals + brown purse + bracelet
- Day 5 (Change for African Dance class): Joggers + workout top + sneakers
- Day 6: Green jacket + black tank + 2nd jeans + leopard flats +big black purse
- Day 6: (Change for fancier dinner) Jumper + black crossbody + sandals + bracelet
- Day 7: Travel in black blazer + taupe tank + 2nd jeans + sneakers + duffel/purse
What I truly cherish about this method is its inherent flexibility. Nothing is set in stone; you have a fluid, adaptable game plan with a wealth of options for spontaneous deviation. For instance, I ultimately paired the taupe top with my black blazer and leopard flats, not the sneakers initially planned. The key takeaway is the freedom to pivot on a dime – whether your feet crave the comfort of different shoes, or you decide a larger purse is more practical for the day’s activities. This freedom stems from the foundational principle that everything you’ve brought works harmoniously together. There are no long jeans that only work with a specific heel height, or a particular dress that clashes with every jacket except one. Every item is a team player.
Ultimately, this approach is about rethinking the traditional packing paradigm: instead of seeing seven days and needing seven complete outfits, think in terms of interchangeable components. This is what prevents luggage from becoming oversized and unwieldy. Moreover, thoughtfully planning outfits in advance decisively trumps the chaotic “just in case” method of throwing everything you own into a suitcase. You arrive at your destination with a well-considered strategy, eliminating the panicked morning ritual of staring into a hotel mirror, wondering what to wear. Every morning of this trip, I was dressed in mere minutes, and I cherished the freedom of having options, knowing that if my feet preferred sneakers on a given day, that choice was always available and perfectly coordinated with any outfit.
Tip #3: Optimize Your Plane Outfit for Maximum Efficiency
Let’s revisit the outfit I wore on the plane, as it embodies strategic packing at its finest. My third crucial tip is to always wear something comfortable and practical for your journey that strategically incorporates some of your bulkier items, effectively keeping them out of your luggage. When I travel to colder climates and need boots or a heavy winter coat, those items are always worn onto the plane. For this trip to France, where temperatures ranged from 50-70 degrees Fahrenheit, the pressure to wear truly massive items was less, but the principle remained. By wearing the outfit pictured below, I intelligently avoided having to find space in my duffel for my sneakers, my black blazer, and this second pair of jeans. All these items traveled with me on my body, simultaneously serving as part of my travel ensemble and reducing the load in my bag. Crucially, the blazer, sneakers, and jeans, along with the purse, all made multiple stylish reappearances in other outfits throughout the trip.
Like so, illustrating their versatility…
And like this (prepare for a REMIX!):
In essence, a meticulously planned plane outfit is the epitome of travel efficiency. It’s not just about comfort; it’s a clever way to expand your effective wardrobe without expanding your luggage.
Sidenote: always tailor this advice to your personal preference. If you find a sweater more comfortable for the plane, the leopard sweater I packed is roughly the same bulk as my black blazer, making it an excellent alternative for travel day. And please remember that while my style gravitates towards basics and a lot of black, this method can look SO MUCH MORE DIVERSE and vibrant if you incorporate bolder colors, patterns, and individual flair into your choices. I simply stick to what I love!
And if you recall me mentioning that 9 entire items from my infographic of what I brought to France didn’t end up in my duffel, here’s the breakdown: my bracelet, my sunglasses, all 3 purses (two were cleverly nested inside the largest black one, but none were actually *in* the duffel), and of course, the black blazer, sneakers, black tank, and second pair of jeans that I was wearing on my body were also not in that duffel. This strategic distribution is key to the “Mary Poppins” approach to packing light!
Tip #4: Modularity Is Key – Items Don’t Always Need Combining
While the beauty of this packing method lies in its endless combination possibilities, it’s perhaps obvious but still worth emphasizing: just because you *can* layer things, doesn’t mean you *always have to*. A sweater doesn’t have to be perpetually hidden under a blazer; its versatility allows it to shine independently, too. The flexibility of my chosen wardrobe meant I could adapt effortlessly to changing temperatures, activities, and even my mood.
For example, I chose to wear this outfit during the day, appreciating its simple comfort and style…
…and then effortlessly added a blazer for an extra layer of warmth and a touch of elegance during the evening riverboat cruise. This demonstrates how a single item can seamlessly transition from a casual daytime look to a more polished evening ensemble.
Similarly, on one of our painting days, I wore just this black tank in the studio, protected by an apron. Later, for a stroll around town, I simply added my green jacket and brown crossbody bag to complete a comfortable and stylish casual look. The ease of adding or subtracting layers to suit the environment or activity is a cornerstone of this packing strategy.
The same principle applied to my white tank. It functioned perfectly as a comfortable base layer for painting in the workshop, worn simply with an apron. When it was time to explore the town, I again layered on the green jacket and my trusty brown purse, creating yet another effortless and cohesive outfit. This modularity ensures every item earns its space in your bag.
Tip #5: The Unpacking Debrief – Learning for Future Adventures
Every travel experience offers invaluable lessons, and taking a moment to reflect on what truly worked well – and what could be improved – is a vital step in refining your packing strategy. This post-trip analysis, perhaps while you’re loading clothes into the washing machine, is well worth those ten minutes. One significant takeaway from this particular journey was the surprising MVP status of my Rothy’s flats. While I often default to packing sneakers and a dressier heeled sandal or boot, these flats, which I’ve owned for years, proved exceptionally versatile and comfortable. Critically, they are incredibly small and easy to pack. My key learning: there’s no need to choose between sneakers or comfy flats when the flats are so compact and travel-friendly. They will now be a permanent fixture in my travel bag.
Another successful realization was the benefit of having a large purse complemented by two smaller bags. Given how easily they nested within my larger purse, providing a spectrum of options without taking up extra space in my duffel, this combination will undoubtedly accompany me on many more trips moving forward! These two realizations are perfect examples that “packing light” isn’t solely about progressively bringing fewer and fewer items. Rather, it’s about curating a thoughtful mix of useful pieces that offer abundant options and make you feel confident and comfortable. There’s a distinct luxury in having so many choices emerge from just one purse and one small duffel. Perhaps we should aptly rename this the “Mary Poppins approach” to travel!
P.S. If you’re intrigued by the concept of a minimal wardrobe and curious about why I find mine so liberating, this postoffers insights on how to simplify your closet and even save money. You might even recognize a few pieces that made their way to France, which I already owned back in 2018 when that article was written!
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