Travel Smart

Suitcase

Some times it can be challenging to look stylish and put- together while living out of a suitcase. It is difficult to pack enough outfits to wear without having to send them out to get cleaned if your trip is more than a few days. if you are going on a cruise or going somewhere you need to dress up for dinner or some other function, what to pack to look appropriate could be an even bigger dilemma.
So here are some tips for packing to look great while you travel.

Choose a color palette
Choose two main colors that go together for your travel wardrobe and an accent color. Make sure one of your main colors is a neutral like, white, black, brown, navy or tan. White is the best neutral color specially for summer traveling but keep in mind it does get dirty quickly. All your main pieces should be one of the main colors. Smaller items or accessories can be your brighter accent colors, for example, belts, hats, scarves or tops. So now you can mix and match everything in your suitcase.

Stick to a few pairs of shoes
If you are planning on sightseeing, a very comfortable pair of casual shoes is a must. If you are planning on walking a lot have a second pair of sneakers or comfortable walking shoes. Perhaps one can be worn to a casual dinner. If you can take only one pair of dress shoes that goes with all your evening / formal outfits, it would be ideal. A tan color pair of heels for the ladies would be the best choice.
If you are going to spend some time by the pool or on the beach casual sandals can look nice, comfortable and let your feet breathe. They also take up very little space in your suitcase. If you pack neutral colors these three or four pairs of shoes will go with everything.

Avoid pure cotton
You ask why? Cotton wrinkles very fast, unless it is a cotton knit. Instead look for clothing that is either wrinkle resistant or supposed to have the wrinkled look, like a crinkle fabric. There a few brands of clothing that are specially designed not to need ironing and work great for traveling. An effective way of packing your cloths is to roll it, rather than fold it. This eliminates lines and helps keep clothes nice and smooth.

Plan your outfits
Yes. Plan your trip wardrobe and chart it out. pull out those items you are considering to take with you. Think about each day and activities you are going to do for that day and each night. Even accessories. make sure you can wear each item three ways. If you are taking outfits with individual pieces that won't mix and match with anything else, my friend, you are over packing. Plan from head to toe and when you are at your destination you know exactly what to wear for your day or evening activity.

Pack lots of accessories
Earrings, necklaces, bracelets for women and belts and hats or scarves for men, don't take a lot of room in your suitcase, yet it can totally change the look of your outfits in seconds. Sunglasses are also a good accessory to pack.

Try everything before packing
Be sure to try everything you are planning to take. Make sure it fits perfectly and it is comfortable. Looking great is a lot easier when you are comfortable in your cloths. Also, wear your walking shoes a few times before packing them to make sure they truly are comfortable for walking.

Plan for the unexpected
Once you have everything in place, throw in something for unexpected weather. Have something to wear in case it gets hotter or colder than what you expected to be or for the sudden rain in a tropical places.
Happy traveling...