The art of packing light for vacation

Deciding what to pack for a trip can be challenging at the best of times; the situation can be made slightly more complex when you are committed to dressing modestly. We have to consider the practicality of the garment, its style, and, importantly, its modesty. If you’re anything like me, you probably also don’t want to take half of your wardrobe.

This guide will provide you with some packing tips and fashion essentials to help you stay modest while enjoying your holiday.

Be Prepared

What sort of holiday are you going for? A leisurely beach stay, or an Amazon adventure? How many nights will you go out for fine dining versus eating at the hotel or house? It may seem a little uptight, but meticulously planning your holiday and knowing precisely what activity you’re going to do each day (and if you can find it, the weather forecast) will help a great deal. Once you know the itinerary for your holiday, you can begin to create your looks. I know – this is almost an "almond mum" level of organisation. But it will save you so much hassle and it's a simple way of knowing you’re going to love and enjoy every outfit, rather than feeling you’ve just thrown something on at the last minute.

Commit to a Style or Theme

Of course, you can pack your jogging bottoms and hoodie, as well as your sequined gown. But why would you? Spare yourself decision fatigue and excess luggage by committing to a specific look or theme for the trip. It will look great in your pictures and and help you to really think about the pieces in your wardrobe and reflect if they are to your current taste. Garments in the same style or theme will allow you to streamline your packing and avoid taking extras you don’t really need.

Versatility

Holidays are the time when basic pieces shine. I would recommend to avoid statement pieces that are hard to pair with other items. Instead opt for essentials which will provide far more versatility. For example, a pair of beige chinos can be paired with white, light blue, khaki, or even an orange top – giving you 4 looks with just 1 pair of trousers.

Try to create a mini capsule wardrobe for your trip. A capsule wardrobe consists of a few versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched to create numerous outfits. Think about versatile items like a well-fitted blazer or a classic wrap dress that can be dressed up for a nice dinner or dressed down for a casual day of exploring. This approach not only saves space in your suitcase but also ensures that you're not burdened with too many choices. Aim for items that can transition seamlessly from one activity to another, allowing you to maximize your options without overpacking.

Layering

Layering is an art that can be particularly helpful for modest travellers. Consider packing lightweight scarves or cardigans that can be easily added to or removed from your outfit. These layers not only offer additional coverage but also adapt to changing weather conditions. A sleeveless dress, for instance, can be transformed into a more modest ensemble by adding a stylish scarf or a light jacket. Plus, layering can add dimension and visual interest to your outfits, allowing you to experiment with different looks even with a limited number of items.

Accessorize with Purpose

Accessories are your secret weapon when it comes to transforming your outfits and adding a touch of personal style. Swapping your cotton hijab for a more luxurious hijab with a pair of nice evening shoes can transform your casual day outfit into a more elegant evening look. Other essential accessories are a flattering pair of sunglasses, a multipurpose bag that you can easily use for different activities, jewellery.

Other Essentials

If you have prepared well, then you will know what makeup looks you want to create – if any, so this should already give you an idea of which makeup to pack. Skincare can be poured into travel containers, or, if you have a simple routine, packed in a leak-proof bag.

Do you need to pack adaptors for your phone, watch, or toothbrush? It's probably best to buy these from your home country as it can take you a bit of time to figure out where to buy them at your destination. Multipurpose travel chargers are also vital when you’re travelling, so be sure you have one fully charged in your carry-on.