Let’s face it – packing can be a serious drag. Whether your getaway is a quick weekend jaunt or a month-long trip, the thought of having to cram all of your essentials into a suitcase is daunting to say the least. So many outfits, so little space, right?
To help you make the process a little smoother, we enlisted the help of our resident packing pro: Sarah Tam. As RTR’s Senior Vice President of Fashion Merchandising and Planning, she knows a thing or two about building a vacation wardrobe that’s both chic and streamlined. Read on for her 5 best tips for traveling light without sacrificing style.
PHOTO: HEY MAMA
Keep fabric in mind.
Not all fabrics pack the same. Choosing the right ones will save you from de-wrinkling when arriving at your destination. Pack layers of lightweight, breathable pieces in wrinkle-resistant fabric. Stay away from bulky fabrics that will take up too much space or 100% silk pieces that will crease easily when folded.
Experiment with a trend.
Vacation is the perfect time to test drive a trend you wouldn’t typically wear everyday. Bright and bold vacation prints were one of my favorite trends on the spring/summer runways and are perfect for a tropical destination. Yellow was hands down the most prominent color for this season and from punchy hues to soft canary there’s a flattering shade for every personal style.
Double-duty pieces are your best friend.
Ensure everything will fit in your carry-on by packing pieces that will do double duty. Pack a crossbody bag to tour around with during the day and at night remove the strap to carry as a clutch or culottes you can dress up with a sandal or down with sneakers.
Find a statement accessory that can spice up every outfit.
Pack a pair of statement making earrings or embroidered clutch that will easily add a polished touch to every piece you pack. The best part is a statement accessory won’t take up valuable suitcase space.
Wear, don’t pack, your heaviest pieces.
Wear your pieces that will take up the most space on your travels. So go ahead and bring that light jacket or fun beach bag, just make it a precedent that you wear it on the road.