Tips for travelling light!

Hey guys! Over the weekend, I went on a short trip up to the Gold Coast with a few friends and I though I would share a few tips on how to pack light. This is great if you have a weight limit (like a carry on) or if you are heading to music festivals! 

1. Make a list
   I love making lists! plan out what your going to do when you get to your destination, scope out the weather and plan your outfits. Its also a great process of elimination, once you start getting everything down on paper you will realize what you don't need. 
2. Keep it basic
   When it comes to planning outfits so far in advance it can be challenging but sometimes the best thing to do is  take a few neutral coloured basics that can be easily mixed n matched . Pick items that can serve a double purpose - for example a denim shirt can be used as a jacket if its a cooler night or as a shirt on its own on chillier days. 
3.  Become an Eskimo
   And by that I mean learn how to layer! One of my favorite ways to save on space in my suitcase is to wear the heavier, bigger pieces on the plane. Layer lightweight fabrics like synthetics. If you are travelling to a cold climate, invest in a good pair of lightweight thermals (trust me, it is worth it!) You might look a little funny wearing 3 shirts a jumper and a jacket all at once, but at least you're not paying an extra $50 because you have exceeded the baggage weight limit.
4. Accessories are your best friend. 
   Jewelry such as rings are definitely lighter and smaller than shoes so they are the perfect travelling companion. Necklaces are a great way to transform a look from day time casual to a dressy outfit. Scarves or shawls are not only great for keeping you warm, they can also add  a bit of  edge to your simple look. My personal favorite accessory to pack is my hat!  Not only does it go with every outfit, its a savior on those bad hair days.
5. Collect samples. 
   Most beauty counters these days will happily give you a few samples of the latest moisturizer or shampoo so take advantage of this! Also if you have sample bottles or jars left over - keep them and reuse them. More about this in 'What's In My Travel Makeup Bag' post. 
6. Do you really need those 5 pairs of shoes!? The answer is NO.
   Depending on the length of your trip and the activities you are doing, you may need more than one pair of shoes - and that's okay.  When I went to Europe I survived on two pairs of shoes for three months. If I can do it, so can you! Buy shoes that can be easily adapted to a casual or dressy outfit, for example a nice pair of sandals that you wear to the beach or out to dinner. Go for  neutral colours, I know the mint coloured flats are cute, but realistically they are not going to suit every outfit. 

Hope this post helps you when you are trying to pack for you next vacation! 

Danica xx