I travel a lot. A lot a lot. Usually, I'm of the opinion that I should just pack what I want, and therefore as much as I want, especially if I have a checked bag. In the last two years, thanks to flying to see my boyfriend every few weeks, I've become a packing light guru. Call me stingey, but paying extra for checked luggage for a weekend away just feels like a waste of money. Part of it is about adapting and working out ways to minimise luggage (Law textbooks? So many of them, but HELLO iPad! Genius!), but part of it is also being really strict with yourself and planning ahead for (almost) every eventuality.
This week, I'm popping over to Brussels for two nights and I'm just taking a small backpack that will double as my handbag for two days of wandering around eating moules frites and waffles, gobble gobble! So, here are my tips for packing light, which also doubles as a 'What I'm taking to Brussels' post - look at me go!
Downsize your washbag. Pretty washbags are, well, pretty! But they aren't practical if packing light is the aim. I use a ziplock bag instead. Be strict with yourself - will you really be plucking your eyebrows on the trip? Do you really need a facemask? Is it really necessary to bring that massive bottle of perfume just because it's your favourite? Mini products are IDEAL in situations like this. Go and have a proper nosey in your local drugstore, but don't forget the little travel empties either. They're perfect when you just HAVE to bring your favourite micellar water but it's in a massive bottle. Just a warning though: Wrap the lid of the bottles with tape to avoid leaks - the bottles I have from boots have been known to leak argh!
This is where all those beauty testers come in handy!
Makeup essentials only - emphasis on 'essentials'. I don't wear much makeup as it is, but I find it really difficult to not bring loads of makeup with me 'just in case'. Just in case what, though? Exactly. Chances are, you're going to be so busy having the time of your life, your choice of mascara is not going to be something that bothers you a whole lot. And as for that bright red lipstick you've had for ages but never worn - put it back. Just put it back, trust me!
Products that have their own brush or applicator are perfect! Or of course that mini brush set you've had stashed away.
Plan your outfits like a pro. I love love LOVE bringing loads of clothes with me when I travel. It makes me feel more comfortable, but the trouble is I end up not wearing even half of what I thought I couldn't live without. So when I don't have the luxury of having a checked bag, I am much stricter with myself. Think realistically about what you're going to wear, based on likely weather and what you'll be getting up to. Layering is perfect, especially if the weather is unpredictable wherever you're going, and you'll thank yourself for packing a compact umbrella. Nothing worse than being soggy in an unknown place. And always pack your most travelling-light-friendly bikini. That's the one exception to the rule here.
Day 1 aaaannnddd....
....Day 2! See what I did there??
No, you don't need all your chargers, cables and 4 different cameras. Unless you're a pro photographer, obvs. Be realistic - kindles have reallyyyyyy long battery lives. Real books have endless battery life, even better! A lot of cables and plugs are separate these days, so you can get away with bringing one plug and just the cables you need. Only bring your laptop if you absolutely have to. Short trips are for immersing yourself in a new place and leaving the interwebs behind. If something comes up and you have to use a computer, internet cafes still exist, believe it or not!
I really hope this post has been helpful! If you have any questions just leave a comment and I'll get back to you. And don't forget to check back next Monday to hear all about my trip!
Bemsy x
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