How To Pack a Travel Capsule Wardrobe: The Essentials
Written by: Lisa Patulny
Even those well acquainted with the concept of building a capsule wardrobe can baulk at creating one specifically for travel. There’s something about editing your wardrobe down to the bare essentials – especially when everything must fit in a suitcase! – that can be seriously intimidating.
If you aren’t sure how to pack efficiently (i.e. get maximum wear out of what you bring while avoiding packing things you won’t wear), let us clue you in. The key to nailing a travel capsule wardrobe is ensuring you’ve only got versatile pieces that mix and match in multiple ways. A curation of good quality wardrobe essentials will be what takes you from the buffet to the beach and then to the bar. (Plus, you’ll still have room in your case for sartorial souvenirs.)
Here’s how to get it right.
1. Create a travel capsule wardrobe
If you’re well versed in building a capsule of wardrobe essentials, you’ll have no trouble brainstorming a more tightly edited, travel-specific one. The idea is the same – focusing on hardworking essentials that can be worn together in multiple combinations for maximum versatility. The size of your travel capsule wardrobe will depend on how long your trip is and where you’re going (winter vacations tend to call for more pieces). If you’re off for a short trip like a long weekend, you’ll need fewer items, so it can help to plan out specific outfits. If you’re going away for a longer stretch, essentials you can mix and match will come into their own.
Here are some example travel capsule wardrobe ideas to use as a starting point:
Example summer vacation capsule wardrobe
Winnie One Piece by Bondi Born
Elevated tank or tee
Lightweight button-up shirt
Midi skirt
Lightweight trousers
Breezy dress
Leather sandals
Trainers
Versatile handbag
Large Tote by Rylan
Statement jewellery
Example winter vacation capsule wardrobe
Elevated t-shirt
Button up shirt
Lightweight knitwear
Classic jeans
London High Rise Straight Leg Jean by SLVRLAKE
Tailored trousers
Hero coat
Double Breasted Wool Coat by St. Agni
Low heeled boots
Trainers or loafers
Versatile handbag
Statement jewellery
Baroque Bodmer Earrings by Agmes
2. Check the weather forecast
You might be headed for Santorini smack bang in the middle of European summer, but it still pays to check the forecast before you pack – you never know, there might be a month of rain on the way! Packing light means being prepared for all scenarios, so base your packing list (more on that below) around the weather.
Find sartorial inspiration for your summer travel capsule wardrobe, here, and your winter travel capsule wardrobe, here.
3. Make a packing list, then finesse it
Create a checklist of everything you think you’ll need while you’re away. If you’re heading overseas for a destination wedding or have an itinerary of events, consider relevant dress codes and what you’ll need for each day, then pack accordingly. Once your master list feels complete, try on different outfit combinations and snap photos of them on your phone for reference. (Bonus: this approach is handy for remembering outfit formulas you like at a glance while away.) You’ll quickly discover if anything is missing. If anything you’ve packed isn’t pulling its weight or feeling versatile enough, you’ll feel more confident leaving it at home.
Struggling to plan your holiday packing checklist? Check out our lineup of 40 Wardrobe Essentials for Effortless Style.
4. Pack like a professional
Now that you’ve sorted your travel packing checklist, lay all your items out on your bed. Check every single piece for dirt or damage well before you start packing. (Pulling out something you’ve planned to wear only to find an obvious pull or stain is a bummer, but shopping for a replacement overseas at the last minute is worse.) Seeing how much you have to pack will also tell you whether you need to refine your list further.
When it’s time to pack, use all the tricks to maximise your suitcase space. Try Marie Kondo’s Konmari method, army rolling or compression packing cubes – they all have legions of fans, so use what works for you. Don’t forget to stuff your shoes and bags with socks and underwear to utilise every inch of space in your case.
Read next: This Is Why You Find It Hard To Get Dressed
