Packing 5.0: Summers, Suitcases, and You
The weather is getting warmer and sunnier, and June is right around the corner. It’s time for… Summer trips!
You might be saying, Meghan… anooooooooooother packing blog?! Why yes! Everytime I head to France, I hone this method (if you’re new here you can read the first, second, third and fourth.)
Speaking especially on pilgrimages, it can be quite a daunting task to think about packing - you are so out of the realm of your normal day-to-day life. And no one wants to spend money on a vacation and – in the middle of it – wish longingly for all the comforts back home.
Nailing down your packing superpower can make all the difference to feeling more comfortable and more able to be present and make the most of your trip.
The last thing you want is blistered feet, or constantly feeling chilly or too hot, while lugging a suitcase full of clothes that don’t work well. Whether that means not having enough daywear if you get a bit “damp” after walking in the sun, or simply not feeling settled in your room. If a trip is going to cost a substantial chunk of change, well then, you deserve to feel cozy and relaxed each night, so you can perk up like a spring daisy and look forward to attacking your day.
This past month I have been busy helping Club members get ready for their pilgrimages and vacations. Everytime I get ready for my trips, I pay extra attention to how to make the most out of my carry-on, too.
I’ve synthesized my methods down to just 10 points to consider when packing:
Let’s go!
What do you actually enjoy wearing at home? Sometimes we pack for a different person when we go on vacay. What are some practical options?
Natural fabrics: If you have to rewear your tops, I HIGHLY recommend natural fabrics. They not only work better at acclimating to changes in temperature but also (let’s be honest) handle odors better, too.
Nail down one Mass outfit: This also works for having that outfit for a fancy dinner, opera, symphony, etc.
Wear your bulkiest item on the plane: This can really work to your advantage since, on a long plane ride, you’ll wind up freezing since you’re not moving. I like to wear my bulkiest sweater, a pair of pants/jeans and (once we’re in the air) I sneak on a pair of comfy toe socks!
Accessories. Sunglasses are an easy way to change up your Summer Look without having to change a lot of outfits. They can really direct your Look, so take advantage of ‘sunnies’ the same way that you treat jewelry. They outlive clothes, so they’re a great investment. You can also be intentional about which style of necklace will work with your summer core pieces. Think silk neck scarves, either around your neck untied (perfect for going into an AC environment), tied in your hair, or knotted on your purse.
Find your inspiration. To hone in quickly, just pick one outfit. Close your eyes and imagine the perfect day on your trip. Imagine the food you'll be eating. Who you'll be with and the sights you'll be seeing. Now, on that perfect day... What are you wearing?
Comfortable shoes. Don’t underestimate the value of having something super walkable on your feet. Even if you’re not doing miles walking in a city, you’ll still be on your feet a lot more, whether it’s at the airport, going to your hotel room, or walking to dinner. A few brands that I like to look for are Joseph Seibel, Born, Clark’s, Ecco. For a younger trendier look, try one of your favorite sport sneakers and do a retro look from Puma, Saucony, or Tretorn.
An “at rest” outfit. This has come a Thing in the last year of traveling that has made a load of a difference. It can be tiring not being in your own bed, your own home, with your own routine. Whether it’s a pair of pajamas that you really like, or a fleece zip-up, it’s good to have something that makes you feel as comfortable as at home, so you can recharge with gusto and get the rest you need to make the most out of your visit. A hotel room can be an odd place to really feel at rest so this is just one way to help invite a cozier feeling.
Your own pillowcase. I know, this sounds bizarre! However, it makes a big difference. Especially if you’ll be in Europe, where the cases may have a different texture or scent. It’s nice to bring your own as it will give you a good night’s rest and that feeling like you haven’t even left your bed. It takes up so little space in your suitcase and has such a big impact. (I love this one, that you can snag on Amazon. Just be sure to zip it up before you depart).
Remember the elements. Whether it’s blazing sun and you need something to cover your arms and shoulders or even though it’s Summer, it’s rainy and overcast at the beach - just because it’s vacation doesn’t mean it’s always ‘vacation weather’.
Here are a few key pieces that have worked for me and for other Club members, so I hope you’ll enjoy these suggestions too!
This can be thrown in the wash but I hang dry over a hanger
Cannot explain HOW wonderful a Joseph Seibel shoe is - absolutely wonderful for walking all day and excellent quality. (This one is on sale from Nordstrom which isn’t common to find).
Super packable and balls up for travel
This linen-cotton blend works fabulously for Europe
