Happy Friday! Whew we made it.
This week was a firestorm of crazy and in the middle I took an overnight business trip. Let me tell you, that is super difficult when you are someone like me (aka a chronic over-packer). I can’t get it through my head that I won’t need six outfit changes, a bathing suit, and a winter coat for two days. You just never know.
However, I think I was really successful this week! I packed light, only took what I needed and found a few hacks. I’ve written a post for how to pack a carry-on before, but today I want to specifically focus on my top three tips to successfully pack for an overnight trip.
For starters, I’m obsessed with my mini carry-on. I have one that is a little larger that is like the standard carry-on size, but I love this one. It’s a big smaller, definitely lighter, and fits everywhere.
And obviously, I love my packing cubes. I talk about them all the time.
Ok time for the overnight tips:
- Utilize your samples. This is the perfect time to pull out all those samples from Sephora: shampoo, conditioner, face wash, fragrances, whatever. These are perfect because you can use them once and throw away at your hotel. No fuss, no mess.
- Pick a solid color and focus on accessories. Instead of packing two separate outfits, pack one color scheme, re-use pieces, and focus on accessories. Can you wear black pants twice with different tops? The same solid-colored dress with two different cardigans.
- Be smart about your shoes. I’m really speaking to myself here, but omg you don’t need 4 pair of shoes. Like two, tops. Shoes take up the most room in your carry-on. Take one nice pair you can do you meetings in and one more casual, slip on pair for travel and TSA. Done.
I love a successful overnight business trip. I also love not having to haul ridiculously heavy bags through the airport.
What’s your favorite packing tip?
This is such a helpful post! I’m a chronic overpacker too- especially if it’s business related so this is great! Love the tip of packing samples- that’s so smart and a space saver.
Ooh, I love the idea of using all of those samples I have collected. Great tips!
Oooh, I want some of those packing cubes!!!!
These are great tips! I’ve never done and overnight trip, but I love the products you suggested to bring! I also love the idea of focusing on accessories as opposed to over packing and bringing a bunch of things.
Love all these tips! I love using up my beauty samples when traveling, it saves SO much space! 😀
Great tips! Totally agree with you on packing cubes – I use them every time I travel!
I love samples for quick trips — that’s really the only time I really use them. LOL!
Bringing basics and focusing on accessories is a must for me! Thank goodness I got a jewelry organizer haha.
I literally collect samples for my trips. They are perfect for 3-4 days trips – usually one sample will last me 2-3 days so it’s perfect!
These are excellent tips. I’ve never had the opportunity to go on any kind of business trip, but if I ever have the chance, I’ll be turning back to this post for suggestions. Love the concept of packing Sephora samples! Great use for those.