As a plus size traveler, packing in a carry-on can be pretty tricky, so I’ve come up with plus size packing tips for a weekend trip!
I don’t think I ever liked packing for trips. That much thinking ahead and planning gave me anxiety. Eventually I learned to love lists and started making meticulous packing lists. I’m talking detailed, OCD style. The lists happened in phases. First, I made the list of days with activities; an itinerary if you will. Then I would make another list with the days, and then do the general outfit style. For example: if Saturday was brunch, beach time then going out, the list would say brunch outfit, beach outfit, nighttime outfit. This way I could start brainstorming and go shopping if necessary. Note: I’m not a big shopper, so I usually only go when I need something.
Whenever I had mentally prepped my outfits, I’d make the next list. On this one, I’d list the days and the outfits I planned to wear. For example, the brunch outfit might read: boyfriend jeans, grey and white off the shoulder top, strapless bra, Steve Madden espadrilles. Nighttime outfits usually also included jewelry and anywhere I wore a dress I would also note Spanx. Yes. I got that specific. I had to attend a wedding in a sports bra once because I forgot the right bra and was in a city with zero stores in my size. Thankfully you can’t tell in pictures!
The final list – HOLY CRAP THERE’S MORE?!? – was the list I used to make sure I didn’t forget anything. Because the previous list had outfits, some items may have been repeated, usually bottoms and accessories. So if I planned to use those boyfriend jeans three times, they’d be on the list three times. This final list (and yes, I labeled it FINAL PACKING LIST) would list all the clothes, undergarments, shoes, accessories and any other items (chargers, bathroom stuff), in that order. My mom used to forget to pack my undies when I went to sleepovers as a kid and because I was always bigger than my friends, I couldn’t borrow theirs. Call me crazy but I don’t like not having underwear. Or shoes. I can’t just run to any store and know they’ll have the item of clothing I need. I don’t live in a straight size fantasy land.
Now that I’m a much more experienced traveler, I usually only make one list (lately I haven’t needed lists at all!). I’ve also become way more of a visual person, so seeing everything has eliminated the need for multiple lists. I also try to be pretty minimalist in my travels, so it’s not that complicated. Backpacking for six weeks will do that to you.
So, “without further gilding the lily and with no more ado,” here is my tried-and-true method of packing.
How to Actually Do the Packing
Start with a carry-on suitcase. This one is from TJ Maxx a few years and a couple thousand air miles ago. It’s a little dirty but it’s held up!
Next, pull out all the items you plan to pack in that suitcase. Arrange in a photo-worthy fashion! (Kidding.) I usually pull stuff haphazardly onto my bed and surrounding furniture.
Once you’ve selected the appropriate jewelry, package it so it won’t tangle and become a pain. I use these little bead bags you can find at craft stores and a pouch from Baublebar (that came with that big druzy stone necklace.) *NOTE: if I’m ever checking my bag, I bring my jewelry on my person. Also note: I have two pairs of shapewear (well, from Dressbarn), three pairs of the Assets underwear and then sleeping undies. I sweat a ton, so I have to make sure I’ve got extras.
Next, make sure to roll up all the clothes you can. You eventually get to know yourself, and because most of my clothing is bulky (it’s plus size, after all), it takes up more space. I know rolling denim doesn’t usually help for me and know which shirts I can fold into tiny squares. Other than that, I roll everything. It’s the best way to minimize wrinkling and maximize space.
Then, go in as you can. I usually start with undergarments and PJs at the bottom to fill the space, then shoes, clothes, and everything else. The beauty of this bathroom bag is that I can pack the night before, leaving a cubed space for it, and just plop it in when I’m ready to go. Easy! I also have the contour palette, brush, and dry shampoo in the lid of the suitcase.
….and I’m set! Realistically I’d usually try to cram in some extra stuff at the last minute because I’m incredibly indecisive, but this is what I aim for. I may sometimes pack a small crossbody bag in my suitcase since I use a large purse to travel. That’s where I carry my laptop, chargers, notebook, and wallet.
I’ve also got a post on plus size packing tips for summer here!
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