When you are heading off to a new city destination, the excitement can be real. There are new museums to go to new restaurants to try out, and the nightlife too.
Not to mention lovely long strolls around lanes, camera in hand.
City breaks are their own special kind of break. You can get fully immersed in a place for the few days that you are there. You can get a broader sense of the culture and the community. The only downside is you are going to need the comfiest sneakers you can find to make sure you don't end up with sore feet!
So when it comes to packing, how can you get a fool-proof system in place?
So many people make the mistake of not checking the weather before they jet off. Check the weather a few times in the run-up to your break. No matter where you go, you should always make sure that you have sunglasses, sunblock but a small umbrella or a packable rain jacket too.
You might get thrown the odd curveball, but if you prepare for rain and sun, you can go far wrong.
A scarf can also be used in multiple ways too. If it gets chilly, you can use it to wrap up warm, or if the sun is blazing, you can cover your shoulders and avoid getting burned.
Shoes
If you have booked to have a meal at a very luxe restaurant, then you are going to want to have some shoes that match the occasion. But for everyday wear, pack your most comfortable shoes.
There is nothing worse than ordering new trainers or sandals, only for them to give you blisters and pain within hours on your first day. No one likes to have to buy blister plasters, or need to keep sitting down because of the pain.
Ballet pumps can be a bit of a lifesaver too because they don't take up much room in your suitcase.
Source: Pexels.
Bags
If you are used to packing multiple shoes, then you might also be packing the bags to match.
In truth, you probably don't need many bags at all. A tote bag can be your best buddy when you are browsing the shops and spending a day looking around.
You can fit your purse, lip balm, sunblock, glasses, umbrella, and any small purchases you make in it.
When you aren't in the mood for carrying a tote, then a sturdy cross-body is ideal. Backpacks and open-top bucket bags can be tempting to take with you, but they can also be an easy target for pick-pockets looking for tourists.
Cross-body bags tend to sit closer to your hip or can be worn on the front, making them a much safer option. Try to get one with a zip and a flap for extra protection.
If you are staying in an Airbnb, then consider packing an extra tote for picking up groceries so that you don't need to buy plastic bags during your stay either.
Clothing
The key to traveling well is traveling light. And there aren't many items of clothing that are as versatile and comfortable as casual dresses.
They can be worn with boots, trainers, ballet pumps and heels too. A linen shirt can be used when layering up for cold weather, or by itself, with jeans if you want to keep your cool.
Depending on the time of year and the weather, you will need to make a choice about the style of jacket you will take with you. Often people will pack too many clothes, and that means heavy bags, too many options, and nightmare re-packing situations. Try to go minimal and make your case a capsule wardrobe.
Source: Pexels.
Leave Behind
If you have a habit of packing all of your hair styling products or make-up items that you want to use but never do… then it is time to consider if they deserve space in your case or not.
A few hair ties and some BB cream is usually enough to give you a soft glow and have your hair managed. If you are going for more than a few days, then maybe your favorite hair styling tool and products will make the cut.
Pre-pack
The week before you travel is the perfect time to pack your mini toiletries. You can make a list and make sure you have everything, so you won't need any last-minute dashes to the local pharmacy.
Space
Always leave some space in your case. For either new clothing and goodies or for the unfolded and rush packing, you are going to do just before you leave.
