7 Packing Mistakes Stylish Women Never Make While Traveling
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@stylemeanna; @hafymo; @rabialafashionistaSummer may be nearing its end, but there's one thing that will most likely not be changing anytime soon—the pent-up demand for travel. After an extended amount of time spent at home, it's safe to say people were ready to go somewhere again. That destination depended upon what you were craving. It could have been a buzzy destination, a low-key weekend spot, or a new place to go dance in town. Whatever the case, it's crystal clear that we wanted to be back outside, and we wanted to dress up again.
Nothing speaks more to that desire than two facts: the reports about record-breaking summer air travel and the extensive number of vacation posts from the fashion set. Travel was top of mind for everyone this past summer, but if you couldn't partake, there's still a chance this fall. With plane-ticket prices slowly decreasing and the prospect of fun fall trends, there's no better time to take a trip than now. Of course, traveling now is still a ton of work—knowing where to go, how to stay safe, what to pack, and how to avoid baggage-claim drama.
But you don't have to stress, as we've reached out to seven stylish and well-traveled women, who are sharing their packing hacks. They've covered all the bases, from the most common packing mistakes to avoid to the fall staples that are worth the space in your suitcase. So fasten your seat belts, readers. It's time for takeoff…
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@jullie.jeineWHO: Jullie Jeine, content creator and travel enthusiast
How would you describe your style?
I would say my style is modern yet classic. I like wearing everyday staple pieces with a twist, such as different textures or interesting shapes and cuts.
What do you think are the most common packing mistakes for vacation?
There are three common packing mistakes, the first being overpacking. One way to avoid this is by knowing where you're going and what the vibe is and then packing accordingly. The second common mistake is solely packing single-use pieces. For instance, I love prints, but I'll always make sure to have core pieces that I can style and pair differently throughout my trip. I promise that rewearing the same trousers on different IG posts is totally okay.
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@jullie.jeineDo you have one hack you swear by when discerning what to wear while traveling?
I swear by doing two things, the first being that I'll plan my outfits by creating a Pinterest board with realistic outfit ideas. And secondly, I'll go straight to my closet and check how I can create new looks with the things I already own because buying less and cherishing your clothes really is a superpower. From there, I can choose what I want to treat myself to and invest in.
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@stylemeannaWHO: Anna Campbell, content creator
How would you describe your style?
I would best describe my style as classy, comfortable, and always current. I have noticed over recent years that my style has become the most minimal than it has ever been.
What do you think are the most common packing mistakes for vacation?
I think the most common mistake when packing is bringing unnecessary items. Sometimes, the more you bring with you, the harder it is to dress. We all have the "ah, I'll just bring that too" attitude at times. It's very easy to overthink outfits. So I like to keep it simple and stick to key pieces that can be styled in numerous ways.
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@stylemeannaDo you have one hack you swear by when discerning what to wear while traveling?
On my recent weeklong holiday to Greece, I took a carry-on case with me to dodge any luggage problems at the airports. I really shocked myself because I could fit seven evening outfits, seven swimsuits, and numerous cover-ups into one carry-on.
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@richloverocksonWHO: Richlove Rockson, plus-size fashion content creator
How would you describe your style?
My style is very colorful, fun, and chic. I especially love experimenting and trying out different color combos!
What do you think are the most common packing mistakes for vacation?
The biggest packing mistake is not planning your outfits for your vacation and then realizing once you're there that either the pieces you chose don't go well together or you don't know how to combine them.
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@richloverocksonDo you have one hack you swear by when discerning what to wear while traveling?
When packing, I always put together full looks before leaving. This is so practical because it saves a lot of time, so while I'm at my destination, I don't have to worry about what I'm going to wear. I can just throw something on and enjoy being there. I can not sing higher praises for packing this way for any trip.
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@rabialafashionistaWHO: Rabia Cissokho, content creator
How would you describe your style?
When I moved from New Zealand to London in 2019, I transitioned from an eclectic style to a more minimal-chic aesthetic with predominantly monochrome with nude tones. I'm definitely a fan of keeping things simple now regarding my personal style.
What do you think are the most common packing mistakes for vacation?
There are quite a few common mistakes when it comes to packing for a trip, the first being leaving it to the night before to pack for your trip. It creates unnecessary stress for yourself and leads to overpacking or not planning outfits properly.
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@rabialafashionistaDo you have one hack you swear by when discerning what to wear while traveling?
For me, it's all about being comfortable but chic at the same time. When rushing around the airport, you want to wear something light and breathable, but also be prepared with a layering option in your carry-on luggage when the airplane takes off.
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@ameliajanewilkWHO: Amelia Wilkinson, content creator
How would you describe your style in a sentence or two?
I think I'd describe my style as effortless and classic while still being fun and trendy.
What do you think are the most common packing mistakes for vacation?
Packing too much is definitely the most common mistake. I've been guilty of doing it myself. I always try to pack about three outfits per day for while I'm away and then end up wearing one thing each day, and the extra clothes end up just being a waste of space.
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@ameliajanewilkDo you have one hack you swear by when discerning what to wear while traveling?
The number one thing I think of when I'm planning a trip is footwear. In summer, I have a bit more leeway with it, as flip-flops and strappy heels take up so little room, but if I'm going away when it's a bit colder, shoes are bulkier and need to be planned more carefully. I try to be as ruthless as possible and only take shoes that I'll wear a few times, and I try not to take things that fall into the same category (e.g., one pair of trainers and one pair of boots).
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@hafymoWHO: Hafsah Mohammed, content creator
How would you describe your style?
I would describe my style as statement-making, elevated, and timeless.
What do you think are the most common packing mistakes for vacation?
Not planning your outfits in advance. It can lead to chronic over- or underpacking and can take away precious time that could be spent enjoying your destination.
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@hafymoDo you have one hack you swear by when discerning what to wear while traveling?
Before I start packing, I put complete looks together down to the accessories, I take a photo of each look, and then I pack them. That way, I have an outfit planned for every activity. This saves me from overpacking things I won't need on my trip. It also helps me save time while I'm on vacation.
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@luenagamaaWHO: Luena Gama, marketing director and digital creator
How would you describe your style?
In my book, more is more! I am a big fan of colors, layers, and accessories. I think my style can be described as bright and eclectic with a hint of cottagecore influence. (I love a good prairie-dress moment.)
What do you think are the most common packing mistakes for vacation?
Overpacking always seems to be the bane of holidaygoers. Packing what you like rather than what you'll actually use is usually what leads to you having too few pairs of underwear and six pairs of shoes you know deep down you won't wear!
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@luenagamaaDo you have one hack you swear by when discerning what to wear while traveling?
Planning your outfits beforehand and making sure they are versatile is key! Usually, I will pick a color theme or a style I'm into and pick pieces that can be styled in various ways or layered if necessary with that theme in mind. I'll try every outfit before packing as well so I can make sure that everything fits and feels comfortable.
