10 Outfits in One Bag: My Capsule Wardrobe Strategy #packingtips, by Travel Tips by Laurie on YouTube. 13 min 47 s.
- Video length
- 13 min 47 s
- Time to do it
- 45 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 9
What you need
Steps
Choose one base color for pants and shorts, such as blue or green, so every top you bring works with every bottom. This is the core of a capsule wardrobe.
Pick 4 to 6 tops that all match your bottoms. Include tees, a cardigan and a sweater so you can layer for warm and cool days.
Add one dress and one pair of slip shorts so you get an extra outfit without extra bulk.
Wear your bulkiest items on the plane, such as the sweater, jeans and walking shoes. These count as outfits too and save bag space.
Do a squat test in each pair of pants before you pack. If they pull or feel tight, leave them home.
Lay out every top with every bottom and count the combinations. Aim for about 10 outfits from fewer than 10 pieces.
Limit yourself to two pairs of shoes that work with all your outfits, like sneakers and a sandal with a back strap.
Fold or roll clothes into packing cubes. Roll thin tees and fold bulkier knits, then press the air out of compression cubes.
Pack the cubes on one side of the bag and fill gaps with small items like scarves and jewelry. Put your crossbody bag on top for easy access.
Tips and common mistakes
Stick to two or three colors so every piece matches and you never pack an orphan top.
Merino wool shirts resist odor and dry fast, so you can wear one more than once between washes.
Test-pack your bag a few days early and cut anything you did not actually wear in your trial outfits.
Keep heavy items near the wheels of a rolling suitcase so it stays balanced.
Questions
How many outfits can really fit in a carry-on?
With a tight color palette and about 8 to 10 pieces, you can build roughly 10 outfits. Shoes and bulky layers take the most space, so wear those on travel day.
Do I need packing cubes?
They are not required, but cubes keep rolled and folded clothes compressed and make it easy to find things. Compression cubes help most with sweaters and knits.
How do I wash clothes on a long trip?
Pack quick-dry fabrics like merino wool and wash small items in the sink with travel detergent. They dry overnight, so you can rewear them.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
