How to Pack a Suitcase

Not to brag or anything (I am totally about to brag), but I pack a lean, mean suitcase. This trip poses a unique challenge because I am driving to North Carolina but flying home so while I have plenty of room for the road trip, everything I pack has to pass muster at the airport, too. I’ll keep a few things out for my handbag like road maps, GPS, camera and charger, iPod, my trusty Sperry’s and some snacks. Other than that, everything is here! Check it out…

1. Curling iron	10. Socks that match – 3 pairs; pajama pants
2. Hair brush	11. Tank tops – 2
3. Bag with hair elastics, bobby pins, jewelry to match outfits	12. Flip-flops
4. Make-up bag with foundation, blush, bronzer, eye shadow, liner, eyebrow kit, mascara, lipstick, brushes, blemish serum	13. Pants – 1 denim, 1 navy, 1 cargo. Leggings – 2 pairs
5. Face scrub, body wash, shampoo, conditioner, body lotion, contact lens solution (all travel-size), moisturizer, sunscreen dab-on, and Intuition razor	14. Swimsuit and shorts
6. Sundresses – 3	15. “Unmentionables” as my mother calls them
7. Black felt-tip pen for journaling and postcards	16. Hoodie – 1. Cardigans – 2. T-shirts/tops – 3
8. Journal	17. Belts – 1 red, 1 navy.
9. New book for the trip (Sarah has demanded that I read it)	Also pictured: eyeglass case, phone charger

 

I invested in a buckle-style luggage strap to secure my vintage suitcase, in lieu of a lock. Mine is from Target but you can find them lots of places, including this cute handmade one I spotted on Etsy.

What are your best tips for packing light?

love, elizabeth