What I Packed: 10 Days in Europe

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Every year I plan an international trip with my brother, who likes traveling as much as I do and is always game for an adventure. This year is especially significant because after a quick stop in Amsterdam, we are headed to meet my best friend in Copenhagen to celebrate her 50th birthday and full recovery from Acute Myeloid Leukemia. I am so deeply grateful I can barely talk about it.

I get so many questions about minimalist packing that I thought I would share exactly what I took with me in case it’s helpful for your next trip. I use the smallest carry-on suitcase from Away for all of my travel (linked here), because it meets international travel standards and is super durable and lightweight. I also swear by packing cubes which compress your clothes and maximize space in your suitcase.

Away Small Carry-On and Packing Cube Set

Overall Packing Tips

• Avoid panic shopping for aspirational items that don’t make sense for your real life

• Choose a versatile color scheme for your trip so you can mix and match pieces

• Wear your most comfortable walking shoes and pack one elevated option

• Choose one smart, versatile, weather appropriate layer (trench, jean jacket, etc.)

What I Packed: Toiletry Bag

I always limit items in my toiletry bag to the bare minimum and use the hotel shampoo, conditioner, and body wash to save space. These are my essentials:

• Deodorant

• Mini Face Cleanser + Moisturizer

• Travel Toothpaste & Floss

• Travel Toothbrush

• SPF

• Mini Concealer

• Mascara

• Brow Gel

• Lip and Cheek Tint

Note: I use a drop of hotel conditioner to smooth frizzy hair, and always get a blowout before my trip so I can leave all hair tools and products at home.

What I Packed: Tote for Plane

I like to bring an oversized tote for my second carry on instead of a purse. An oversized bag can fit all of the items I want to have easy access to on the plane with some extra room in case I want to bring gifts or treats home. Packed in my tote:

• Charging Cords and Travel Adapters (I use and love this tech case)

• Passport, CC’s, and Currency

• Laptop

• Headphones

• Book

• Sunglasses

• Mini Pharmacy (meds/vitamins/hand sanitizer)

• My Toiletry Bag (see contents above)

Note: Even though I always pack in a carry-on bag, I make sure my tote has all valuables and essentials in case I am forced to check my bag (nightmare!) due to an overbooked flight.

What I Packed: In My Suitcase

I typically opt for a very basic uniform when I travel, consisting of jeans, tees, blouses, and comfy walking shoes. I elevate these staples with chic accessories that don’t take up much space, and I wear a trench, or a more casual outer layer, on the plane.

• 10x Socks

• 10x Underwear / 3x bras

• Lightweight PJ Set

• Chambray Shirt

• 2x Jeans (denim / white)

• 4x Tees

• 4x Blouses

• 2x Tanks

• Maxi Dress

• Elevated Shoe (typically a low heel or bootie)

What I Wore: Outfit for the Plane

Especially when I am flying internationally, comfort rules the day:

• Leggings

• Cozy Sweatshirt

• Sneakers - I’ve tried them all and these are my favorite for walking a ton

• Trench (this one feels like a blanket and can elevate any outfit)

• Small Crossbody Bag w/ Passport and CC’s (I tuck into tote for security)

  

Packing super light always makes me feel so free and unencumbered when I travel even if I occasionally feel underdressed. I’m writing this from Copenhagen and you can follow along on my adventures right here on Instagram.

Have minimalist packing tips of your own? Questions? Please share in the comments.

Reading: Subtract: The Untapped Science of Less Linked here.

Just for Fun: A peek inside my minimalist brother’s suitcase ;)

The Search is Over: A clean deodorant that actually works. Linked here.

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