Packing for a year abroad… Do I need 30 pairs of knickers?

So within a few months of deciding we were actually going to pack up and travel across the globe, the dread of packing my suitcase kicked in. I love clothes, always have! They bring me so much joy and I find them a real comfort blanket on an adventure. I’ve always been that person who packs to the limit, but in the months leading up to leaving, all I seemed to be telling people was ‘yeah just taking a capsule wardrobe…’ Problem was, I wasn’t really sure what that looked like for me! In the spirit of helping similarly-afflicted clothes lovers, I’ve put together some tips and advice on getting past the packing dread.

1. Pick your bag.

We ummed and ahhed over backpacks vs wheels and settled on wheels pretty quickly, after realising we didn’t want to lug things round ourselves and most places we’d be going have pavement! Con found the medium Eastpak Tranverz second hand, which has two large compartments for easy organisation and of course I pretty quickly got fomo and got one too… Be sure to look on all the second-hand sites for luggage, we got two bags for £110 thanks to Facebook Marketplace and Gumtree (they were £160 EACH new). The best decision we made was buying luggage which couldn’t fit more than our weight restrictions. There’s no point having the space if it will end up costing you extra at the check in. Our limit was 23kg (20kg with Jetstar - don't get me started) and a full medium Tranverz will weigh in at 20-25kg when full.

2. To pack in cubes or not to pack in cubes.

I decided on packing cubes and so far, this is the best decision I could have made. As someone whose bedroom flips between a bomb site and Marie Kondo’s dream, I knew I needed something with a bit of structure. I sorted into categories and this helped me cull some things before I even started. I got these ones from Amazon and they've been great (just ignore the Karen quotes).

3. The list.

For me, the best way to get going was to make a list. I figured this would be the easiest way to make sure I packed the right gear and cut out the unnecessary extras. My plan was for everything I packed to coordinate and complement multiple items, so I could wear different combinations for different occasions. Controversial decision: I packed no long sleeve tops! I opted instead for layers (so far so good). I'll be honest though, two months in, I’m already realising I’ll just wear whatever is comfiest - baggy T-shirts and shorts FTW. I've included my full packing list at the end for those who love an organised list (I see you).

4. Toiletries weigh a tonne.

Only really one more point on packing and that’s toiletries. I decided pretty early on to buy one toiletry bag and if it didn’t fit in there it wasn’t coming. This beauty from Amazon was a winner. It can fit all the essentials, has a bunch of handy compartments and I love that I can hang it up and access everything so easily!

5. Don't pack the kitchen sink.

Chances are, wherever you’re going, they’ll have everything you need! You can find moisturiser, shampoo, and toothpaste pretty much everywhere and you'll be going pretty remote if you can't find an H&M or another chain which has your basics covered! Everyone told me this and I didn’t believe them (no need for I-told-you-sos thank you), but I should have also factored in that, being a bit of a chameleon when it comes to fashion, I’d also want to pick up new things as we travelled. Full transparency, I may have acquired a few ESSENTIAL items, which I've listed below:

• A wide-brimmed hat (knew I’d need it but wouldn’t fit in bag) - FB marketplace

• Floaty gypsy skirt (everyone else had one and I felt left out!) - Salvation Army

• White lower-cut vest top with built it bra (does this even need an explanation?! Amazing in the heat) – Uniqlo

• Grey cycling shorts - I forgot to pack mine! - H&M

• Large basketball jersey (to cover clothes for painting and then use on the beach) – Vinnies (Aussie charity shop)

• We also made one last-minute purchase just before we left which has been an absolute game-changer and I would highly recommend - Crocs (the classics, before you ask)! Man these babies are comfy. So far, useful for: plane rides, beaches, showering in public washrooms, slippers around the house, water-shoes at rocky spots etc.

I’m sure I’ll update this as the year goes on but here’s my starting point. I’ll might also do a mini carry-on version, so keep an eye out for that. Any questions just ask and any advice (friendly not preachy) welcome!

Han x

*The 'final' list*

Tops:

• 7x vest tops

• 7x t-shirts

• 2x baggy t-shirts

Bottoms:

• 3x shorts

• 2x trousers

• 2x leggings

• 1x skirt

• 1x denim dungarees

• 1x long comfy cotton dungarees

All-in-ones:

• 10x dresses

• 2x playsuits

• 1x denim skirt

Flexible essentials:

• 1x long sleeve shirt

• 1x fleece

• 1x cardigan

• 1x jumper

• 1x thin body warmer

• 1x raincoat (not sure this was needed now!)

• 4x sports socks

• 12x ankle socks

• 6x bras

• 18x pants

• 2x swimming costumes/ 1 bikini (I’m in the market for another!)

• 1x sarong (doubles up as a beach towel)

Shoes:

• Birkenstocks

• Black platform sandals

• White New Balance

• Brooks running trainers

• Crocs