Packing Methods for the Minimalist

We at Golden Coil are big fans of lists. List making on scraps of paper, on our phones, and of course in our planners. Over the years we’ve shared our tips for all sorts of list making. Packing lists, meal planning, and event to-dos. Have you heard of the sudoku packing method or the 4x4x4 method when preparing for a trip away? There are a variety of approaches but they essentially build around a simple idea, a limited number of items that mix and match to build a variety of outfits. Today we’re sharing simple tips to maximize your outfit options on a trip while packing minimal items.

For this packing method, start with packing your shoes. Think about which activities you will be doing on your trip. Pick a pair of shoes that will be your anchor shoes on the trip that you can wear for most activities and on most days. This might be a pair of comfortable, casual sneakers or sandals. Select your anchor shoes and an additional pair or two. Next move on to selecting three bottoms. Bottoms could include jeans, trousers, shorts, and skirts. Make sure all of the bottoms you pack work with your anchor shoes. Next move on to tops and layering pieces. Select three tops like tanks, t-shirts, long-sleeve shirts, and button-ups. These can be worn alone or layered. Then select three layering/heavier pieces. A jacket, cardigan, sweater, or coat all work well depending on how cold the weather will be. Cooler climates will require heavier layers. If traveling to a warm climate, consider adding in an extra shirt or two. If you love to wear dresses, add in a dress or swap out one bottom for a dress.  

After you select your items, you can put them in a chart in simple rows or try the sudoku method. 

Use your planner or notebook to map out different combinations. Once you have your key pieces selected, think about adding in accessories like a silk or cotton scarf, a small purse, a larger tote, hat, and simple jewelry that will work with your outfits. If you know you’ll be exercising or swimming, don’t forget to include workout clothes and a swimsuit. Lay out all of your items before packing and utilize packing cubes to organize and pack everything up. After your trip, note what worked and what didn’t. Save your favorite layouts and selections for future trips! 

Let us know how your packing goes if you try this approach! And leave us your favorite packing tips in the comments below.