Packing tips

Places to go, things to see….I went on a recent trip to Hong Kong.  It’s such a fantastic city.  Great shopping, amazing food, pretty skyline, filled with lots of exciting things to see and do and buy of course.  Here are a few of my tips:

*Pack light – you’ll need lot’s of room for all that shopping.

*Make sure you catch a ferry at least once – such a great way to see the city from different vantage point.

*Visit Lane Crawford, a great way to shop – great product mix (men, women, kids) with helpful staff and merchandised beautifully.

*Have lunch at one of the many delicious Food Courts – yes, that’s right a food court (not like the normal ones you get in Australia) a gourmets delight.

* Have a green tea ice cream at City Super and stock up on some yummy chocolates, cookies, lollies etc… the food is so good you wont want to leave.

*On the way  home, stop at Page One newsagent/bookstore at the airport.  Fabulous coffee table books that are reasonably priced.

I heart HONG KONG!!!

Things every “Classy” gal should know/do when packing to go away…

*Get a good night’s sleep before you travel and drink lots of water (don’t drink alcohol at the airport).

*If you are going to take a pill to help you sleep on a flight, make sure they are the natural kind – you don’t want to be drooling on some strangers shoulder!

*Especially if you’re staying with a friend, pack appropriate PJ’s.

*Depending on the climate of your destination, bring a coat – or at least a trench coat.  Wear it on the plan to save room in your luggage.

*Always pack a little dress that can be dressed up or down, like a simple black dress (always comes in handy).

*When it comes to makeup and toiletries bring only what you use and keep the makeup basic, lipstick, mascara, powder.

*If you are bringing electronics particularly of the bathroom kind, make sure you have the right adaptor/voltage converter.  Or just use the hairdryer provided by most hotels (one less item to lug around).

*Spice up an outfit with a brooch, hat, scarf, belt of funky necklace.  These can go on top of everything.  If you are taking expensive items with you, remember to put them in your carry-on luggage.  And when at the hotel, always place expensive items, money, passport et al in the hotel safe.

*Don’t forget to leave room for the stuff you are going to buy, or pack a collapsible travel bag inside your suitcase.

BON VOYAGE!!! 

If you don’t currently use these you must!  Flocked coat hangers look lovely when all matching (and all facing in the right direction.)  They protect your clothes better. They give you more space in your wardrobe as they are slim line (which is a major bonus) and they come in two colours –  a grey/beige or black.  Stay tuned for “closette” coat hangers…you can purchase them at www.hsw.com.au

Before you start to pack for a trip, work out where you are going – City? Country? Island?  Who will you be seeing? What will you be doing?  Sightseeing? Work meetings?  What’s the climate like – hot, cold?  Then start making a list of everything you need to take.  Write down every item (including underwear, passport, money, toiletries, power adapters etc…) and use this as your check list for when you are re-packing to return home.  Lay out each item on the bed and work out how many days you are going for.  Make sure you can mix n match for day to night; and put complete outfits together.  You’ll be amazed at how many outfits you can make from only a few key pieces.  Don’t over pack. It’s best to travel light and save room for shopping.

Bon Voyage!

Over the summer holidays I went on a family holiday to Bali – here are some images that might inspire you.  Happy Holidays! X

Going on a Summer Holiday?  Here’s my list of Summer packing essentials:

*Sunscreen 30+ –  I have just discovered a new spray on Sunscreen. Ultra Sheer body mist by Neutrogena.

*Swimming Costume – bikini or one piece whatever you feel more comfortable in. check out www.zimmermannwear.com.

* Big, bohemian earrings – fun and flirty and great for dressing up at night. check out www.net-a-porter.com

* Kaftan – everyone needs a cover up and can also double as a dress at night. check out www.camilla.com.au

* Espadrilles or platform wedge – the perfect summer heel. check out www.shopbop.com

* Beach shoe – like Soludos, something flat and comfortable.

* A selection of shorts & t-shirts (depending on how many nights you are away)

* Sundress – something pretty, flirty and comfortable.

* Straw bag or Tote – big enough for beach towels or holiday shopping! check out www.anyahindmarch.com

**Don’t forget to take large zip-lock bags for skin care (leaks) or wet swimmers and wet wipes are also useful.**

No matter where you are going, don’t forget to pack sunscreen and a fabulous pair of sunglasses!

Don’t forget to pack extra shoe bags or plastic bags to put your dirty items in so that they are kept separate from the clean stuff.

Always pack black pants or a LBD (little black dress) they will get you through any trip.