Please help me pack lightly for the first time in my life!
Jan 25th, 2004, 01:33 PM
#1
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Please help me pack lightly for the first time in my life!
OK, you have all talked me into packing lightly, so I will try to on a trip to Amalfi coast late in March (almost two weeks).
Is this a good start?
1 pair black dress pants
1 pair black jeans
1 pair black cords
1 pair white jeans
2 black t shirts
2 white t shirts
1 black and white striped tshirt
1 black long sleeve t shirt
1 red hooded light cotton jacket
1 black wool short blazer
1 black cashmire pull over
1 dressy blouse
1 set warm up outfit for lounging
1 light velvet robe
1 set silk pj's
1 waterproof shoes
1 black loafers
1 black dress mules
underwear/belts/scarves
1 3/4 length black wool coat
1 cashmire shawl (black or hot pink?)
What will this fit into? Help me, I have a feeling I am going to hyperventaliate.
Is this a good start?
1 pair black dress pants
1 pair black jeans
1 pair black cords
1 pair white jeans
2 black t shirts
2 white t shirts
1 black and white striped tshirt
1 black long sleeve t shirt
1 red hooded light cotton jacket
1 black wool short blazer
1 black cashmire pull over
1 dressy blouse
1 set warm up outfit for lounging
1 light velvet robe
1 set silk pj's
1 waterproof shoes
1 black loafers
1 black dress mules
underwear/belts/scarves
1 3/4 length black wool coat
1 cashmire shawl (black or hot pink?)
What will this fit into? Help me, I have a feeling I am going to hyperventaliate.
Jan 25th, 2004, 01:42 PM
#2
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Hi Polly,
I think it will all fit into a briefcase?
Do you really need the sweats?
Do you really need jeans and cords?
I suggest 2 pair of walking shoes.
Try this: get out your suitcase. Pack everything you think you will need. Remove 1/2. Put it into a smaller suitcase. Take the suitcase and walk 1/2 mile and up three flights of stairs.
Remove 1/2. Put it into a smaller suitcase. Take the suitcase and walk 1/2 mile and up three flights of stairs.
Repeat until you feel comfortable shlepping the suitcase.
I think it will all fit into a briefcase?
Do you really need the sweats?
Do you really need jeans and cords?
I suggest 2 pair of walking shoes.
Try this: get out your suitcase. Pack everything you think you will need. Remove 1/2. Put it into a smaller suitcase. Take the suitcase and walk 1/2 mile and up three flights of stairs.
Remove 1/2. Put it into a smaller suitcase. Take the suitcase and walk 1/2 mile and up three flights of stairs.
Repeat until you feel comfortable shlepping the suitcase.
Jan 25th, 2004, 01:47 PM
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is this a joke.
if it's not. I take it that you are going too where ever you are going, in winter and staying for a couple of months.
how many jackets are you taking. just wear 1 that matchs many outfits and wear it on the plane. kill the warm up outfits that what the long sleave tshits and is for..
if it's not. I take it that you are going too where ever you are going, in winter and staying for a couple of months.
how many jackets are you taking. just wear 1 that matchs many outfits and wear it on the plane. kill the warm up outfits that what the long sleave tshits and is for..
Jan 25th, 2004, 01:59 PM
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<<What will this fit into?>>
Two garbage bags, but that isn't the point, is it?
But it is at the heart of one key element of a "right" answer: the first step of packing light is choosing bag that are light when EMPTY.
I recommend no more than eight pounds for your "main" bag - - e.g., a rollaboard, and no more than eight OUNCES (yes, ounces) for your carry-on, such as nylon small-medium duffle.
I usually carry (pack) a third bag of this same lightweight size EMPTY to give more room for stuff that I acquire while traveling.
Best wishes,
Rex
Two garbage bags, but that isn't the point, is it?
But it is at the heart of one key element of a "right" answer: the first step of packing light is choosing bag that are light when EMPTY.
I recommend no more than eight pounds for your "main" bag - - e.g., a rollaboard, and no more than eight OUNCES (yes, ounces) for your carry-on, such as nylon small-medium duffle.
I usually carry (pack) a third bag of this same lightweight size EMPTY to give more room for stuff that I acquire while traveling.
Best wishes,
Rex
Jan 25th, 2004, 02:08 PM
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Take out the white jeans, the warmup outfit, the mules, and the velvet robe(!) and you're on the right track, as long as that list also includes what you'll be wearing, not just what you're packing.
Packing light means being flexible about the designated roles our garments play; you can use the light cotton jacket or the cashmere pullover if you're chilly in your silk jammies. Is there something you'd use the shawl for, that none of the other garments can do?
But packing light also doesn't mean you have to stick to black-and-white, as long as everything works together. Switch those white T's for bright-colored ones, and you'll be cheerier and less worried about dirt, too!
Have you checked on whether cords are approprlriate for the Amalfi climate in late March? Probably something lighter-weight would be OK. And you might want to upgrade the loafers into sturdy walking shoes.
And don't forget socks and undies, about 5-6 of each so you can wash out just twice.
Don't hyperventilate. As long as you remember to pack anything that requires a prescription (meds, glasses), if you forget or need anything else, you can buy it there!!
Packing light means being flexible about the designated roles our garments play; you can use the light cotton jacket or the cashmere pullover if you're chilly in your silk jammies. Is there something you'd use the shawl for, that none of the other garments can do?
But packing light also doesn't mean you have to stick to black-and-white, as long as everything works together. Switch those white T's for bright-colored ones, and you'll be cheerier and less worried about dirt, too!
Have you checked on whether cords are approprlriate for the Amalfi climate in late March? Probably something lighter-weight would be OK. And you might want to upgrade the loafers into sturdy walking shoes.
And don't forget socks and undies, about 5-6 of each so you can wash out just twice.
Don't hyperventilate. As long as you remember to pack anything that requires a prescription (meds, glasses), if you forget or need anything else, you can buy it there!!
Jan 25th, 2004, 02:19 PM
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you might try this...it works for me every time. first choose your suitcase...i always take the 22in. wheeled carry-on even if i check it. then begin by packing all the essentials you have to have ( underwear, shoes, etc.) then what you will need for everyday sightseeing, including shoes. then for a night out. see what room you have left and fill in. when you are full, you are full. and that is that! you can repack and rearrange and may find a way to make more room, but deciding first your suitcase size and then your wardrobe really makes it simple to disgard unnecessaries. btw.. try to double duty items. the loafers are fine with nice pants.those black dress pants can be used for more than just dress by the end of the journey...your coat or shawl can be a bathrobe. also you can always buy clothes. ps i would definitely rethink the white jeans.....
Jan 25th, 2004, 02:27 PM
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You are on the right track and have received lots of good advice. I would definitely take something warm. The Amalfi coast in MArch can be cold. I was there a few years ago in early April and was very glad to have a woolen shawl and a leather jacket.
Jan 25th, 2004, 02:30 PM
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Since you're not going until March, rehearse a little. (I'm a musician.)
Pack your suitcase and then live a week only with what you packed. If you didn't use it, don't take it. You can try this a couple times to see what you really need.
You'll quickly discover what you can fit in your suitcase, and just as quickly discover what you really don't need. The suggestions above were excellent.
If you have to take jeans, take one pair and wear them on the plane. I've given up jeans because they are comfy but just too bulky. A blazer, sweater and jacket is overkill. Go with the blazer. It's more versatile. You don't need a warmup suit. Lounge in your jeans! It's probably going to be too warm for cords. If you have to take a robe, take a silk one. As mentioned above, be super sure to take at least one GOOD pair of walking shoes. If you really need a shawl, buy one there. It will be a wonderful souvenir. (Of course you have to pack it back, so leave some room!)
Have a great trip.
Pack your suitcase and then live a week only with what you packed. If you didn't use it, don't take it. You can try this a couple times to see what you really need.
You'll quickly discover what you can fit in your suitcase, and just as quickly discover what you really don't need. The suggestions above were excellent.
If you have to take jeans, take one pair and wear them on the plane. I've given up jeans because they are comfy but just too bulky. A blazer, sweater and jacket is overkill. Go with the blazer. It's more versatile. You don't need a warmup suit. Lounge in your jeans! It's probably going to be too warm for cords. If you have to take a robe, take a silk one. As mentioned above, be super sure to take at least one GOOD pair of walking shoes. If you really need a shawl, buy one there. It will be a wonderful souvenir. (Of course you have to pack it back, so leave some room!)
Have a great trip.
Jan 25th, 2004, 02:37 PM
#9
pick the lightest weight in shoes possible and as Rex suggests, the suitcase. Remember you will be lifting it and if you can't lug it aroiund comfortable you will be miserable. I bring a pashima shawl for on the plane and cool evenings and a folding nylon raincoat. I pick light fabrics, thin cashmere and knits that don't wrinklesome put their things in Plastis bags. Others roll their garments. Tuck small things like rolled belts in your shoes, leave jewelry at home. Remember it's fun to buy something their to wear and it will bring back memories.
Jan 25th, 2004, 03:03 PM
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2 comments:
White jeans in March? You must be from California. Until I lived here I never saw white pants before Memorial Day (unless they were winter white wool).
Velvet robe? A lovely thing to be sure, but not for travel. Buy yourself a silk kimono style robe that will take up no room and weigh nothing.
Personally, rather than warm ups for lounging, I wear something comfortable on the plane (like Chico's travelers line -- elastic waist pants, zip up jacket) and use that outfit for "lounging" during my trip. Come to think of it, why do you need this at all? You have your jeans, you have your silk pajamas and robe -- the first is suitable for lounging in public and the second for lounging in private.
White jeans in March? You must be from California. Until I lived here I never saw white pants before Memorial Day (unless they were winter white wool).
Velvet robe? A lovely thing to be sure, but not for travel. Buy yourself a silk kimono style robe that will take up no room and weigh nothing.
Personally, rather than warm ups for lounging, I wear something comfortable on the plane (like Chico's travelers line -- elastic waist pants, zip up jacket) and use that outfit for "lounging" during my trip. Come to think of it, why do you need this at all? You have your jeans, you have your silk pajamas and robe -- the first is suitable for lounging in public and the second for lounging in private.
Jan 25th, 2004, 03:39 PM
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I disagree, Holly. The pink shawl will look great over the black pants and any of the black and/or white tops. (polly doesn't say what colors are in the dressy blouse, but presumably they work with the rest of her wardrobe.)
White jeans will be good for 1 or 2 wearings at best -- then either laundry or back in the suitcase for the rest of the trip. (Unless she just wears them out in the evening. But I thought it would still be chilly, not really tropical paradise, in March.)
White jeans will be good for 1 or 2 wearings at best -- then either laundry or back in the suitcase for the rest of the trip. (Unless she just wears them out in the evening. But I thought it would still be chilly, not really tropical paradise, in March.)
Jan 25th, 2004, 04:28 PM
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Your are on the right track - especially if you normally pack a huge bag for a short trip.
But you could cut that stuff by at least a 1/3 and still have plenty of wardrobe options.
I also ask - Why black cords and black jeans? They are essentially the same garment so anyplace you could wear one you could wear the other? Leave one of them home. The white jeans are an issue - nothing wrong with them but they will get soiled the first time you wear them and then they will take 3 days to dry hanging over the bathroom rod. I'd skip the velvet robe and the warm up out fit. Marilyn's idea of a chicos-type outfit to wear on the plane is a good one. But then you should drop one of your other tops and pants since the chicos can take their place.
You listed 9 tops (not counting jackets) which is probably 3 or 4 too many. You can also cut back to 2 pair of shoes and one belt.
This reduced wardrobe will easily fit in a 21 inch roll aboard. Wear the most comfortable and bulkiest items and shoes on the flight.
But you could cut that stuff by at least a 1/3 and still have plenty of wardrobe options.
I also ask - Why black cords and black jeans? They are essentially the same garment so anyplace you could wear one you could wear the other? Leave one of them home. The white jeans are an issue - nothing wrong with them but they will get soiled the first time you wear them and then they will take 3 days to dry hanging over the bathroom rod. I'd skip the velvet robe and the warm up out fit. Marilyn's idea of a chicos-type outfit to wear on the plane is a good one. But then you should drop one of your other tops and pants since the chicos can take their place.
You listed 9 tops (not counting jackets) which is probably 3 or 4 too many. You can also cut back to 2 pair of shoes and one belt.
This reduced wardrobe will easily fit in a 21 inch roll aboard. Wear the most comfortable and bulkiest items and shoes on the flight.
Jan 25th, 2004, 05:10 PM
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1 pair black dress pants
1 pair black jeans
2 black t shirts
2 white t shirts
1 black long sleeve t shirt
1 red hooded light cotton jacket
1 black cashmire pull over
1 dressy blouse
1 set warm up outfit for lounging
1 set silk pj's
1 waterproof shoes
1 black loafers
1 black dress mules
underwear/belts/scarves
1 3/4 length black wool coat
I think the above is great. I'd take along either a pair of regular jeans or khakis for an ultra casual day - not white, it could stain too easily. plus it may very well be cold. you might want to take along a fleece to layer, just in case. not elegant of course but on the days you wear the red cotton coat/jeans - if it's cold I'd want to be ready.
I would take the lounging outfit b/c I've often wished I had, when I am back at the hotel. the days clothes you don't want to wear, either they are too constricting for relaxing or you want to 'save' them to get an extra day's wear out of them. just make sure it's very light and folds down to nothing...
light bags - amen to that. definitely get a pull bag. and wear your heavy stuff on the trip over and back. and don't forget a collapsible light canvas bag to schlep stuff you have bought, home. or even your dirty clothes.
scarves will add color, the black and white scheme you have is a good backdrop.
the below I think are either redundant or won't be of as much use as you think once you get there:
1 pair black cords
1 pair white jeans
1 black and white striped tshirt
1 black wool short blazer
1 light velvet robe
1 cashmire shawl (black or hot pink?)
don't forget, you will buy things there, which is half the fun. if you really think the above I cut out is necessary, then leave it home and buy on the road.
1 pair black jeans
2 black t shirts
2 white t shirts
1 black long sleeve t shirt
1 red hooded light cotton jacket
1 black cashmire pull over
1 dressy blouse
1 set warm up outfit for lounging
1 set silk pj's
1 waterproof shoes
1 black loafers
1 black dress mules
underwear/belts/scarves
1 3/4 length black wool coat
I think the above is great. I'd take along either a pair of regular jeans or khakis for an ultra casual day - not white, it could stain too easily. plus it may very well be cold. you might want to take along a fleece to layer, just in case. not elegant of course but on the days you wear the red cotton coat/jeans - if it's cold I'd want to be ready.
I would take the lounging outfit b/c I've often wished I had, when I am back at the hotel. the days clothes you don't want to wear, either they are too constricting for relaxing or you want to 'save' them to get an extra day's wear out of them. just make sure it's very light and folds down to nothing...
light bags - amen to that. definitely get a pull bag. and wear your heavy stuff on the trip over and back. and don't forget a collapsible light canvas bag to schlep stuff you have bought, home. or even your dirty clothes.
scarves will add color, the black and white scheme you have is a good backdrop.
the below I think are either redundant or won't be of as much use as you think once you get there:
1 pair black cords
1 pair white jeans
1 black and white striped tshirt
1 black wool short blazer
1 light velvet robe
1 cashmire shawl (black or hot pink?)
don't forget, you will buy things there, which is half the fun. if you really think the above I cut out is necessary, then leave it home and buy on the road.
Jan 25th, 2004, 05:26 PM
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Well, after I posted I went to the market and when I came back I was so happy to see all of your advice!
No, I wasn't kidding and yes I do live in California!
I am trying to mix up a casual wardrobe for the Amalfi area with warmth if the climate is still cold. I thought the white pants were good for the resort atmosphere. The pink shawl is pashmina like, but I could take a black one instead. Now I think I will cut the white shirts and add colored ones too.
I think my black jeans are too tight for lounging so I was going to bring the warmup suit for veranda sitting. I will cut out the cords now too.
The velvet robe is light, but I think I will bring a silk kimona instead now.
I really really thank you, I have a phobia on choosing clothes to wear ahead as you can tell and will weigh my luggage now too. I am going to print this thead out and study it a while.
No, I wasn't kidding and yes I do live in California!
I am trying to mix up a casual wardrobe for the Amalfi area with warmth if the climate is still cold. I thought the white pants were good for the resort atmosphere. The pink shawl is pashmina like, but I could take a black one instead. Now I think I will cut the white shirts and add colored ones too.
I think my black jeans are too tight for lounging so I was going to bring the warmup suit for veranda sitting. I will cut out the cords now too.
The velvet robe is light, but I think I will bring a silk kimona instead now.
I really really thank you, I have a phobia on choosing clothes to wear ahead as you can tell and will weigh my luggage now too. I am going to print this thead out and study it a while.
Jan 25th, 2004, 05:43 PM
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I would revise your list to be:
1 pair black dress pants
1-2 pair black cotton slacks
1 black skirt, knee-length or longer
2 black t shirts
2 white t shirts
1 black long sleeve t shirt
1 black wool short blazer
1 black cashmere pull over
1 dressy blouse
1-2 pairs walking shoes
1 pair walking/comfort dress sandals
underwear/belts/scarves
1 3/4 length black wool coat
1 large scarf/wrap
1 small/medium bottle Woolite
I suggest the skirt and large scarf specifically in case you're visiting any religious sites that require a bit extra modesty, or have a nice dinner out. Not to mention, skirts are much cooler during the warm afternoons. And you'd be amazed at how much room you can save by packing fewer and lighter clothes and doing a bit of hand-washing along the way. I spent a long week in Israel with one 22" rollaboard and one small sidebag.
1 pair black dress pants
1-2 pair black cotton slacks
1 black skirt, knee-length or longer
2 black t shirts
2 white t shirts
1 black long sleeve t shirt
1 black wool short blazer
1 black cashmere pull over
1 dressy blouse
1-2 pairs walking shoes
1 pair walking/comfort dress sandals
underwear/belts/scarves
1 3/4 length black wool coat
1 large scarf/wrap
1 small/medium bottle Woolite
I suggest the skirt and large scarf specifically in case you're visiting any religious sites that require a bit extra modesty, or have a nice dinner out. Not to mention, skirts are much cooler during the warm afternoons. And you'd be amazed at how much room you can save by packing fewer and lighter clothes and doing a bit of hand-washing along the way. I spent a long week in Israel with one 22" rollaboard and one small sidebag.
