Not sure what to pack for your summer vacay? GL's got the best tips on what to stash and what to leave at home. Whether you’re gonna be spending a week at basketball camp or a couple days lounging on the beach, our advice will keep your suitcase from exploding. You’re not gonna need those purple suede booties—we promise!
If you're like most girls, you probably over pack for everything (look at our huge purses!). This summer, stick to the 50-percent packing method. So pack your suitcase once, take every thing out, pick half of all that stuff and re-pack. Seriously. Brilliant, right? Keep reading for more of our do’s and don’ts!
DO:
1. Check the calendar.
If you're just going away for a weekend, you don't need to over-stuff a huge suitcase. For short trips, put together outfits in your mind that you know you'll wear. For longer trips, pack a few pairs of shorts and pants that you know you can wear a couple times and a few tops to go along with them.
2. Be a weather girl!
If you're going to the beach, you mostly need sundresses, tanks and bathing suits, so nix all those extra jeans and hoodies. Def bring along one light jacket in case the nights are cool. Not sure about the forecast? Head to weather.com and do some research.
3. Mix it up.
You can't go wrong with mix ‘n’ match basics, like jeans, khaki shorts and black and white tees and tanks. You can mix and match tops and bottoms when the clothes are simple and no one will notice.
4. Save space.
Packing sneakers? Roll up your socks and undies and stick them in there. If your suitcase has an expander zipper, use it instead of bringing another bag. Oh, and pack the heaviest stuff on the bottom and work your way up.
DON'T:
1. Bring everything you own.
Taking along a few extra items "just in case” is OK, but bringing four seasons worth of clothes is ridiculous. Remember, you’re going to be lugging this around—so don’t weigh yourself down.
2. Forget your itinerary.
If you're heading to sports camp, then pack athletic clothes, sneakers and plenty of socks. You don't need to pack tons of sundresses. If you’re spending a week at the lake, taking those high strappy sandals would be crazy, right? Keep in mind what you’re gonna do and pack accordingly.
3. Tote huge toiletries.
Stock up on tiny versions of your fave products. Or, if you’re going away with a big group, talk about things you can all share (ie, one person brings the shampoo, someone else gets the conditioner). if you're going to be staying in a hotel, you don't need to bring soap and shampoo since they'll have them and will restock the supply every day. Pack a small conditioner in case the 2-in-1 shampoo doesn't work for ya.
4. Go super glam.
Sure, you wanna look cute on your vacation, but bringing along valuables is a bad idea (imagine losing grandma’s charm bracelet on a hike!). Bring a few pieces of cheap jewelry but leave your most cherished pieces at home, in case they get misplaced. Need a piece to add punch to an outfit? Head to a nearby shop to get a cute souvenir—and wear it immediately!
-Katie Shutt
BY GL ON 7/14/2009 11:25:00 AM
POSTED IN summer, how to, travel, pack right