I wanted to give a quick packing update. Packing for this trip was hard because we will be away for nine days. That means I need lots of clothes I can layer under my sweaters and hoodies.
We already packed everything into our luggage so I’m going to give kind of a general breakdown of everything I packed. We are sharing one large suitcase and we each have a carry on (mine is the duffel bag and my husband has an actual carry-on sizer suitcase).
So, here’s what I packed:
- Tons of undies and 2 of my most comfy and soft bras from VS
- About 5 sweaters—including a zip-up hoodie, my new BR hooded sweater, the sweater Candice lent me, a Lulu Lemon zip up (super fitted and has a high neck, perfect for layering)
- Lots of layering tanks and super long tees—I would say I have 10 in total. The tanks are from Target and Lulu Lemon and the tees are from Forever 21 and Love Culture
- Tons of tights and leggings—I brought about 4 pairs of HUE tights and then about 7 pairs of various leggings from Target and A’Gaci to layer under my skinny jeans and Lulu Lemon leggings for warmth
- TONS of warm socks—seriously, H and I went a little sock crazy and bought a ton of thick socks to keep our tootsies warm
- 1 pair of tall Chestnut classic UGG boots
- 1 pair of Hunter Wellie boots (I’m wearing them on the plane)
- A note on shoes—I decided not to bring any heels—after seeing the crazy weather in Europe on the news and seeing the weather forecast for the week we will be there…I just can’t fathom a time I will wear them, ever…I also thought it would be nice to get a pair of heels as one of shopping indulgences while I’m there—which brings me to dresses—I’m not bringing any of those either—I’ll probably find one there that I love and again, can’t forsee myself wearing one since we will be doing touristy stuff all day—I did bring a nice black top though that I could wear to a dinner…under my massive puffy coat
- 1 Michael Kors knee-length puffer jacket
- 1 pair of GAP black “always skinny” jeans
- 1 pair of Lulu Lemon black “still” pants
- 1 long tunic-style black sweatshirt top I bought at Target today—it’s seriously awesome—it’s like a supersoft sweatshirt material (but not too thick), it’s super long (like almost could be a dress) and has a sort of loose cowl-neck…love it! The front also has those sweatshirt-style front pockets—I’m wearing it on the plane with my Lulu Lemon wunder under leggings
- 1 faux-fur collar sleeveless sweater vest— I consider this to be one of the dressier items that could work for a dinner to spruce up an otherwise more casual outfit
- 2 pairs of gloves
- 2 hats—both black, one is more of a beret style and the other is the one with the ear flaps and pom-poms
- 1 black circle scarf—perfect because you can make it a neck-warmer or wear it looser
- 1 pair of PJ pants and PJ top (and I have some tees I can sleep in too—I packed a lot of them so I’d have versatility in how I wore them)
Notice I’ve once again packed a lot of our stuff into ziplock bags. I like to do this because it saves room and because it’s great for keeping dirty clothes in as you travel. I used the zip mesh part on the top of the luggage to store my leggings and tights and also all of H’s boxers which I rolled into tight little cylinders. I always try to roll everything I can into cylinders. For sweaters, I just folded them as best as I could and stacked them on top of each other.
I was originally going to show photos of everything I packed…but once I got going and H got all of his stuff packed in there too, I didn’t want to unpack it all.
To pack strategically, I laid out a “must” pile and a “maybe” pile and then I packed and saw what I had room for. I really thought about what I would wear considering the weather and what we would be doing there—touristy stuff—and I made the best choices I could. The key for this trip was definitely layers. Lots of tanks to wear under sweaters.
I totally wanted to be all glamorous on this trip, but the most important thing is staying warm—because if I have to suffer the whole time then I know I won’t enjoy the trip (especially since I’m already one of those people who is ALWAYS cold!)
I think I have a lot of great clothing options that I can mix and match for a chic look. I don’t have any dressy looks, but I have pieces that can dress-up some of my existing outfits. Living in the South, I must admit that I didn’t have as many cool-weather pieces as I thought I did. A lot of my tops at sleeveless or have 3/4 sleeves.
I’m not even going to bring my beloved leather cognac boots. I just know I won’t wear them. There’s snow storms, rain, etc…I’d rather just wear the Hunters and protect my feet from the wetness. I did bring UGGS on the off-chance that their might be some drier days and to lounge around in.
I think when you pack to go to a cold location, you’re always going to have to pack a lot more than you would pack for a tropical vacation (because bikinis definitely take up less real-estate than big, cozy sweaters!). Overall I’m happy with what I packed and I hope it all works out. I don’t plan to buy a ton of stuff—but if I do happen to shop a bit, we’ll have extra room in both carry-ons.
Phew. If you have any questions about my packing, please comment below 🙂
Before I go—H’s parents came by today and dropped of our Christmas gift and we gave Lulu the tissue paper from the gift bag (he LOVES anything he can tear apart like toilet paper) and he had a ball.
Case in point:
xoxo,
Veronika.
Have fun on your trip! I really enjoyed reading about what you packed for your trip, and the thinking behind it. I think you made the right choice to leave your dresses and unnecessary shoes behind- your comfortable (but stylish) clothes is what you'll get the most use out of.
I dread packing and un-packing because I'm such a perfectionist (in that I don't like to forget a single thing). The most useful thing I ever did was make a list on my computer (and saved on my phone) that has all the basics for ANY trip – so that I never forget any of the essentials (such as cell phone charger, camera or mouth guard LOL).
I do like outfit-planning, and usually start laying out potential clothes the week before in my guest bedroom. I then take one night to try most outfits on – and make sure the pieces are versatile and that I have all the accessories I need (I told you I'm a perfectionist LOL!)
Of course – packing got 3x more complicated once I had kids…have to do all their outfit matching too!
Sorry for the double post! Hope this works now:
Have fun on your trip! I really enjoyed reading about what you packed for your trip, and the thinking behind it. I think you made the right choice to leave your dresses and unnecessary shoes behind- your comfortable (but stylish) clothes is what you'll get the most use out of.
I dread packing and un-packing because I'm such a perfectionist (in that I don't like to forget a single thing). The most useful thing I ever did was make a list on my computer (and saved on my phone) that has all the basics for ANY trip – so that I never forget any of the essentials (such as cell phone charger, camera or mouth guard LOL).
I do like outfit-planning, and usually start laying out potential clothes the week before in my guest bedroom. I then take one night to try most outfits on – and make sure the pieces are versatile and that I have all the accessories I need (I told you I'm a perfectionist LOL!)
Of course – packing got 3x more complicated once I had kids…have to do all their outfit matching too!
Have a safe and great trip! Can't wait to see pictures when you get back! 🙂
I think you packed too much for only 9 days… I'm going abroad for 4 months and have to pack everything in a suitcase like that. Are you really going to be wearing a different sweater each day?
OMG the pictures of Lulu at the end are priceless! Have fun on your trip!
I think you packed just enough! I would rather overpack than underpack, but that's just me. Plenty of layers, variety, etc. I'm shocked you're not taking your cognac boots, that's the only thing I would add. =) But I understand they're big and will take up room and you definetly don't want to ruin them. Have fun! I'm veryyyy jealous of you!!!
Knowing how much you LOVE clothes, I think you packed pretty good honestly. I'm an outdoor, adventure seeker – back everything I can carry type of gal – and I think that.
Have fun. I was in Paris on New Years in 2002. Be careful! 😉
@anon—we are going for 9 days but that big luggage is mine AND mu husband's stuff 🙂 We pakced big bulky sweaters so they take up a lot of room
I think you did a great job packing! My only worry is that you didn't bring even one pair of heels or a dress in case you guys go out for a nice dinner? I saw you were bringing a nice top, but only saw that you had leggings and jeans for bottoms? I know you said you might buy some stuff, which would work in case you do go out to dinner, but what if you can't find any heels that you love? Anyway, I am probably what you would consider an "overpacker," so you can ignore my advice if you would like, lol. Just trying to help! I hope you guys have a fabulous time on your trip!!
@rachel—i struggled with the heels thing…but honestly, I will never be able to wear them in that weather and don't want to ruin the heels I have. I am still contemplating it…but I even talked to my boss who will also be in London and she said no one will be wearing anything but boots unless they go from "car to bar". I'm going to think about it 🙂
That is so funny.. look how happy he is with the green paper!!!!!!!!
Have a safe trip hon!
ha ha! I love the pics of lulu. It's like a kid loving the box more than the present! My dogs are like that too. They love wrapping paper!
I think you packed the right amount too! You were very practical as well and I think the fact that you aren't bringing heels and dresses is wise. When it comes to such a long trip, it's important to choose functionality over anything else. I'm sure you will look amazing!
I am actually SUPER impressed by how little you packed for 9 days.Everything is very smart. Have fun!!
thanks 🙂 I might actually further eliminate…we shall see. I just realized that I'm going to be freezing so it's really about keeping warm and no one will see what's under my jacket most of the time anyway.
Hi Veronika…Lisa here…reader for a couple of months and first time poster here. Im English and I live in Greece right now and I can tell you that you packed very well indeed. A warm cosy jacket/coat and a waterproof pair of boots are the most important things to take. I doubt you will feel like wearing skirts or dresses as it will be really chilly outside. As you say, you can always buy that dress that you absolutely can't live without:) My only concern is are your Hunters really comfortable for lots and lots of walking in? Mine are not. Wishing you a wonderful romantic trip
I too am impressed with how little you have for a long trip. I would have that whole suitcase for myself plus a carryone. The hubby would be on his own! LOL
Link to the Target sweatshirt by any chance?
Sounds like you have it covered. I was in Europe over the summer a while back, and I was surprised by how little "summer" clothing I ended up wearing. I will say though that I found Europeans to dress more "polished" that most Americans. No sweatpants or hoodies, really, but lots of boots & nice jackets. Have a wonderful & safe trip, and a lovely holiday season!
Wow, you are much more efficient at packing than I am. I go a little overboard & bring much more than necessary, but I like to have options!
Are you at all worried about the snow and ice that has been blasting Europe and if that will affect your travel? They have had a record season already!
we are def. worried about the weather—it's hard to pack light—but I learned my lesson—i always always always over pack and then I hardly wear half of what I bring…so I'm trying to get better about it—I can always buy something that I need there if it's absolutely crucial.
I think the no heels idea is right – it will be too cold to wear them! You can wear your boots to dinner and/or a bar… everyone else will be wearing them! 🙂
Did you decide not to bring those tennis shoes you had mentioned several posts ago? When I was in London and Paris doing TONS of sightseeing, even my boots started bothering my feet. My tennis shoes (with leg warmers on under my pants) were perfect for the long walking days.
@healthy honey—i dont think my sneakers would be warm enough or waterproof enough that's why I sort of have the UGGS as a backup…hopefully I'll be ok…if worse comes to worse I can buy different shoes.
This really helped me with my packing list for L.A H and I are leaving tomorrow for 6 days to be with my family for Christmas.
I always like to dress cute but comfy on the plane, what are some suggestions you have? I see you are wearing your (super cute) Hunter wellies on the plane, what are you wearing with them?
Have a great time! I've always wanted to go to Paris, take lots of pics!
I would also love a link to the target sweatshirt. It sounds like an item I have been searching for my wardrobe.
Also have so much fun! I love Paris. You should make sure to visit a church near Notre Dame called Saint Chapelle. It is absolutley beautiful! Also there is a street named Rue Cler that has a ton of wine shops, gourmet food, cafes, bakeries and cute boutiques near by. We loved strolling down this little street. Take a night time River Seine cruise. We bough some chocolates and champagne on the boat and it was so romantic.
I wouldn't worry about the heels since you have stylish boots. So many of the streets are uneven heels would be so hard in the winter!
So excited for your trip!!! I think you're right to stick with the practical gear – you'll probably be so glad you did!
jolene—someone found it on my formspring page—
the sweatshirt tunic from target: https://www.target.com/dp/B003ZTLGUQ/ref=sc_qi_img_viewdetails?ie=UTF8&title=view%20full%20details
it looks better in person than it does on the model
theresa—i'm wearing leggings, hunter wellies and the target sweater in the above link
Veronika, we are envious! Have a great time in Paris and we can't wait to see you blog about your adventures!
XO Alo
https://alosport.com/blog
https://facebook.com/aloclothing
I always have such a hard time packing when we go away. It never fails that I over pack and bring twice as many outfits as I need, "just in case".
Love the pictures of the dog with the paper! My dog would have a blast with it as well, but he would actually try to eat & swallow the paper. Does Lulu do this too, or does he just like to tear it apart and then gets bored once it's shredded?
@diana—he doesn't eat the paper he just likes to tear it apart!
You did a great job packing! I'm impressed because my suitcases are always a hot mess. ugh. Have a safe and wonderful trip and take lots of pictures! And Lulu is too cute ripping that tissue paper up! Merry Christmas!