Help! Off to Europe in a week and making a packing list but sooo difficult. Tips?

europanista

So my summer will be starting when usually by this time it should be ending. I'm super excited to jet off to Portugal but I have a tiny problem when it comes time to packing. I'm obsessed with clothes and shoes and can't cut anything from my list but I can't pack it all?? Anyone have any tips or suggestions how to pack light yet fashionable? It's a 2 week trip with very hot weather.

8 years ago

Dressing

7 replies

Latest reply was from KikiG

Anonymous

As Angie wisely says...start with shoes. I like to take three pair, including the pair you will be wearing on the plane. All need to be comfortable walking shoes.
Next pick a color scheme. If going to a large city, I like to include black or grey. Those work well to fit in in an urban setting and can be the basics of outfits. Add some color. I tend to use scarves or light weight tops.
Try on everything and outfits that you might wear to be sure that you like them.
Pack layers so that you will be prepared for any temperatures.
I choose only travel with a carry on and large purse or a backpack. I take 2-3 bottoms and about 6 tops, including what I wear on the plane. I try to do double duty as much as possible...a trench can serve as a robe if the bathroom is down the hall. A tank and Capri leggings or work out shorts can be summer pj's if you wear them. I wear a security belt under my clothes with passport, credit card, money, etc. For that reason (accessibility for me), I always wear separates, no dresses. Try not to look like a tourist and become the victim of gangs of pickpockets. We have been attacked but never lost anything even though they have razor blades to cut through pockets. Just be aware. Your life is not in danger but a stolen passport, etc. can ruin a trip.

8 years ago

europanista

Member

Amazing suggestions thank you. I will be sure to try outfits on beforehand and I especially like the tip of starting with shoes. I will try to keep it to 3-4 pairs max!!

8 years ago

Anonymous

Angie, has done some blog posts on packing capsule - the most recent just in the last few days, so you should definitely take a look at those.

Also, since Angie's posts don't typically relate to warm weather travel, you might also take a look at travelfashiongirl.com. She suggests sample packing lists and wardrobes for a variety of destinations.

8 years ago

Stagiaire Fash

Veteran

I agree with the recommendation to read Angie's packing posts.

You could also do your own. Line everything up on the bed for a picture to post here. I got really helpful comments when I did that. (I was trying to go with less weight than usual--a couple people pointed out things I should add and a problem with one item). But before I even clicked "submit", just the exercise itself, laying things out and writing out why I was taking them, was helpful, because it made me think through the reason for everything I took.

If you do a post, include any events on your trip so people know what you are preparing for.

If you are certain about what you're taking and only want ideas on how to fit all in, these might help. https://www.containerstore.com/tip/travel https://www.containerstore.com.....ul-packing https://www.containerstore.com.....ty-nesters (scroll down to the ennumerated points in that last one)

8 years ago

Laura G

Veteran

I have no practical advice for you except: don't do what I did. Don't be so determined to take every pretty outfit you could possibly wear that you take a gigantic heavy suitcase that you will be embarrassed and sweaty pushing and pulling across Paris in a heat wave. Because that's not pretty.

8 years ago

Jane

Veteran

We had a super holiday in Portugal. The weather was lovely and hot. I do recall there being really nice shops, big brands and smaller boutique shops. So may be have a bit of spare space! If you are travelling around Europe, I would take an umbrella, especially if you are coming to UK!

8 years ago

KikiG

Veteran

Try to take one item in a category--one tank, one ss tee shirt, one ls tee shirt, etc., not multiples in the same category. You can layer if it is cold. A cardigan over a tank and pj pants is presentable enough to go down the hall to the bathroom if your lodging isn't ensuite. Don't forget rain gear and shoes that are slick on the bottom on city streets can be a big problem when your foot hits metal embedded in the pavement. (Learned this the hard way!)

8 years ago

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