Packing to go away is much harder than it sounds.  Be organised and plan ahead.  Think about where you are going, for how long, what you will be doing, who you will be meeting.  Will you have work appointments, sightseeing, yoga retreat etc…

No matter where you are going, don’t forget to pack something in case the weather turns cold such as a (warm jacket) or wet (raincoat/umbrella).  Always pack something for night, a little black dress for example (last minute dinner invite).

Start by folding everything in groups on your bed and then put outfits together (this goes with that).  Pick items that you can dress both up for night (add heels, a necklace or earrings) and down for during the day (will this work with jeans or shorts?).  Once you have planned your outfits for each day/night that you will be away, look again.  Remove anything you don’t think you will wear.  If you are going to shop, factor that in too – either give yourself more space or bring an extra bag that can fold up inside your suitcase.

Don’t forget to leave room for toiletries (decanter your products into smaller travel sized bottles) and place everything in zip-lock bags incase something leaks.  Make sure you have the right adaptors for hairdryers, shavers etc.. if you are going overseas.  Place all shoes in shoe bags or plastic bags so that they don’t dirty your clothes.  Remember to pack a plastic bag for dirty clothes.

Make use of laundry facilities in a hotel (or bring travel sized laundry wash) or at a friend’s house instead of taking extra items.  Finally, when you’re packing put all the heavy items on the bottom and lighter, crushable pieces on top.  Bon Voyage!