Fashion Editor Polly Rogers sprinkles her wisdom on the perfect packing tips to create a carry on wardrobe that will keep you in outfits all summer long!
Bon Voyage for the summer, Belfield! There's a wide world waiting for UCD students that doesn't include readings, or labs, or tutorials! But… It will require some skillful packing, and not to worry - as an experienced overpacker myself, I will bestow upon you my top tips for squishing your life into a case. If anyone knows me (and my massive wardrobe) you know that this is not only a talent I have but one I enjoy! The art of packing has been perfected in past summers, having 20 kg of luggage for an upwards of 3 months abroad, this is my honest advice on thinning out your wardrobe but not your style!
Weight wise, we are going to assume that your journey is starting with a bog standard 10 kg carry on… and a backpack. First issue of note is that usually your backpack is restricted in size, but not weight so use this to your advantage! Volume pack all your fabrics into your carry on and anything heavy can squish into your backpack, this can include laptops, books, shoes - anything that is only taking away from how many outfits you can pack. When it comes to the content of your case, pick your heaviest pieces and place those on for the journey. The bare minimum I think I could survive a summer with is as follows:
Tops, when it comes to your tops try to pick a small variety that goes with every bottom, perhaps if your bottoms are basic add a bit more colour and pattern into your top collection, or vice versa! I would recommend at least one tank, one tee and one flowy shirt. These can be layered or styled with each other to create combos. If you're a girlie travelling and plan on partying in any capacity bring at least one little going out top or skirt, something glittery with a bit of glam that will dress up any of your basics. For bottoms, the minimum I would recommend is 2 pairs of shorts, one denim and one lighter linen or cotton, 1 pair of linen or baggy pants and 1 skirt, maxi or mini whichever you like best! As it is summer, be it seaside or inland there will defo be a swimming opportunity at some stage to cool off and splash around! I'd recommend one or two bikinis, layering these undershirts or tanks can add some variety into your outfits! A tankini is always a good shout as it can be another tank top to add into your rotation.
“perhaps if your bottoms are basic add a bit more colour and pattern into your top collection, or vice versa!”
For your outerlayer, mediterranean or metropolitan, rain showers are always a possibility. A stylish lightweight bombshell rain breaker works, something that will fold up small, but keeps the rain off. In my personal experience one jumper would be enough for the entire travel duration, be it a sweatshirt, a hoodie or a loose knit cardigan, this is essential for chilly days or if your roommate pops the aircon on a sub freezing temperature for sleeping... (I might be guilty of this). I'd recommend one or two sets of pjs, and two pairs of shoes, be it Sambas and Birks, or Nikes and Havianas, one for the beach and one for the streets is always a great choice. Try to think ahead if there are any specific activities you plan on hitting that you need specific footwear or gear for - best not turn up to mountain biking in Crocs!
“For your outerlayer, mediterranean or metropolitan, showers are as always a potential.”
From my experience, after a summer walking along muddy beaches to bars, my socks have seen better days, so keep this in mind, don't bring your best ones! But also sight seeing can lead to blisters! If interrailing or backpacking, you should have access to a laundry or at least a sink and washing powder so don't overpack, as underwear and socks slowly add to your weight without realisation. These tend to dry fast in the heat so perhaps pack a few clothes pegs if you have the extra space as they aren't heavy but are immensely helpful. An extra most people wouldn't pack is a little mini sewing kit, a needle and some safety pins, to alter or change the fit of any item.
Last but not least, accessories are key! I once started a summer season with 7 pairs of sunnies and left with 1 so I’d recommend at least 2 pairs for safety. Sunglasses protect your eyes and also can double as a hair band to keep your salty sea swept locks out of your eyes! Jewellery is a must but I wouldn't recommend anything too expensive for hostels and travel, just in case it gets lost or broken. Belts, bandanas and hats, bangles and watches, claw clips and scrunchies are all lightweight and perfect to elevate the bland into fab!