I always struggle when it comes to packing: I overthink AND over-pack. When I was starting to prepare for my most recent backpacking trip, I panicked - how was I going to fit 4 weeks of clothes into a carry-on approved backpack? With the help of some packing cubes, my mom, and some serious planning, I was able to fit everything I needed (and wanted) into a 40L backpack.

How I Packed

I used 3 packing cubes to keep my stuff organized and wrinkle-free(ish). I designated one cube for bottoms, one for tops, and one for undergarments and swim. This made it easy for me to know exactly where everything was, and I would be much less likely to lose anything.

I wanted my individual items to be as versatile as possible, so I stuck with neutral options, adding colors with accessories. I packed:

2 pairs of shorts (solid and patterned)
1 pair of jeans
1 pair of cotton pants (more on these later)
2 short dresses
1 long dress
1 romper
1 cotton t-shirt
1 linen blouse
1 cotton sweater
1 pair of comfortable walking shoes
1 pair of cute sandals
1 pair of waterproof sandals
1 week's worth of undergarments & socks
1 set of pajamas
1 raincoat
1 umbrella
1 scarf
1 tote
1 cross-body bag
2 swimsuits (one piece and bikini)
1 cover-up
Toiletries

With the above, I was able to create 16 unique outfits, simply by mixing and matching. I felt like I always had an appropriate outfit, from casual days strolling the cities, to evenings at Michelin star restaurants. I was also able to change things up enough so it didn't look like I was wearing the same clothes in every photo.

I knew that I would be spending some time in Morocco and Turkey, and the cotton pants were a great choice! In addition to wearing them camel riding and sight seeing, and I was able to sleep in them on cooler nights. They were also great to have for the 14 hour flight home. My scarf/wrap also helped keep my shoulders covered when I wore my maxi dress, as many places did not allow exposed shoulders, and kept me warm in chilly restaurants.

Packing Tips and Tricks

Choose a color pallet and stick to it!
Pack your heavy items at the bottom of your backpack
Wear your bulkier items (sneakers, jeans) on travel days to free up space
Prepare to do laundry while you're there - bring Pods or travel detergent
Plan on re-wearing things - don't pack anything that gets dirty easily
Do your research on dress code - many religious buildings have a strict dress code for entry and you don't want to miss out because your knees or shoulders are showing
Roll, don't fold - things will take up less space and be less wrinkly
Packing cubes will be your best friend and will ensure you don't over pack
Find out what your airline's restrictions are for carry-ons and make sure you get the right size pack - I chose a 40L Pack from REI and it was perfect
Make sure your pack isn't too heavy - practice walking with it before you leave and if you can't make it very far, take things out!
Invest in a collapsible tote - I found the water-resistant Longchamp was perfect for carrying my camera, GoPro, wallet and umbrella around during the day, but easily fit back into my pack on travel days

Did I miss anything? Let me know your tips and tricks for packing in the comments. Looking for more packing advice? Check out my guide to the perfect carry-on!

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