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Be strategic
Start by making a list of things you think you ’ ll need . Check the climate of the country you ’ re going to visit , and take only the lightest garments you can and still be comfortable . Plan to dress in layers so you can go with the flow , weather-wise .
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Minimize , minimize , minimize
But I ’ ll admit this is a high bar , so here ’ s another approach : fold everything and arrange it by type ( e . g ., pants , underwear , T-shirts , etc ). Then ruthlessly edit , eliminating anything that you won ’ t wear at least three times , and any separate that does not match with at least 2 other items . ( In other words , don ’ t take that blouse you love unless it works with several bottoms .) Also , if it doesn ’ t dry quickly , delete !
The rule of thumb is to lay everything out on your bed , then take half .
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Take everyday multitaskers
Pack fabric softener sheets in your suitcase to keep clothes smelling fresh . Tie a sheet through your belt loop , and they work as mosquito repellants . ( A sheet in your empty bag eliminates any musty smell during storage .) Dental floss can repair broken jewelry or hang laundry . A contact case with twist-on covers holds moisturizer , foundation , or sunscreen . Hotel shower caps are ideal for wrapping shoes before packing ; or to cover your camera on a rainy day . Those packets of silica gel beads that come in the box when you buy shoes or electronics ? They ’ ll prevent moisture build-up in your travel bag or camera case . The ultimate multitasker , duct tape , can hold suitcases together , repair eyeglasses , fix broken shoes , and serve as a bandage in an emergency . To save space , wrap it around a pencil to about 1 / 4 " in diameter .
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Plan your laundry schedule in advance and pack accordingly
Before you leave , check your itinerary to see when you ’ ll be staying at the same hotel multiple nights . Then , plan to do hand laundry the first evening , in order to assure sufficient time for items to dry . Knowing how many ( and which ) nights are “ prime ” for doing hand laundry helps you determine how much clothing to bring with you .
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Leave the jewelry at home
No one cares what jewelry you ’ re wearing . If you feel naked without it , plan to wear the same necklace and earrings every day . And never take anything you don ’ t want to lose .
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