The Airelle View

I used to be a chronic over-packer. These days, I can pack for a weekend trip or a two-week one using the same method — and I’m rarely missing something once I land.

Start with a base layer list

Before I even open a suitcase, I write down: how many days, what climate, and what I’m actually doing each day. That’s it. Everything else gets built from there.

My non-negotiables

• One pair of shoes that works for day and night
• A packing cube per category (tops, bottoms, essentials)
• One “just in case” layer, no matter the season
• Everything liquid goes in a clear pouch, always packed last

The 20-minute rule

If packing is taking longer than 20 minutes, I’m overthinking it. I’ve learned that the trips I overpack for are never the ones where I actually use the extra outfit.

What’s your packing non-negotiable? I’d love to hear it in the comments.