BY ISABELLE FABELLA

Admit it: At some point in your life, you’ve probably packed something you didn’t actually use on your trip. That item probably took up space in your luggage. Packing can be tricky and time consuming especially when not approached methodologically. To make this hassle-free for you, we’ve compiled some of our best tips and tricks to help you lighten the load.

How To Pack Light For Your Next Trip

WHAT TO CONSIDER

1. Weather

Usually weather forecasts give you a good idea of the kind of weather to expect on your trip. Once you know the temperature range of your destination, it will be easier to narrow down what you should pack.

2. Duration

The duration of your trip will dictate how many pieces you should bring. For example, if you’re travelling for two weeks, you should pack at least four pajama sets.

3. Itinerary

Will you be going on hikes? Or will you be in a city most of the time? These are a few questions to ponder so you can bring the appropriate gear for such excursions.

4. Luggage

Your suitcase should be big enough to fit your check-in items and your abroad purchases. As for your carry-on, pick one that will fit your necessities, such as a small cosmetic bag, a book, and a camera.

WHAT TO CONSIDER to pack light

ACTUAL PACKING

1. Clothes, Shoes and Accessories

– Pack the basics — By basics, we mean your favorite versatile pieces in your wardrobe. These are your fail-safe clothes that will make up the foundation of your outfits. An example would be a skirt that you can easily dress up or down with ballet flats or sneakers.

– If you’re travelling to someplace cold, pack thin sweaters that you can wear as button ups or camisoles underneath rather than bulky sweaters that are hard to layer with.

– Embolden your outfits with jewelry, scarves and embellished jackets. Bring a daytime cross-body bag that can double as a clutch for evenings. Depending on the size of your scarf, it can also double as a kimono when you tie the parallel corners together.

– Avoid blisters by bringing comfortable shoes (Pack no more than three pairs).

– If you’re sure you’ll be going to the gym or the pool, then pack your gear. If not, then skip out on those clothes.

– Don’t forget your pantulog. Please.

2. Beauty Products

– Get travel sizes of your products. If you can’t get travel-sized versions, decant your essentials into small travel pots and tubes.

– Keep products in zip locks to minimize the damage those products can have on your clothes or cosmetic bags. Cabin pressure on planes can cause products to explode out off their packaging.

– Multi products are your best friends. For example, a cream blush doubles as a lipstick while a bronzer doubles as an eye shadow.

What are some of your tips for packing light? Let us know in the comments below!