The definitive packing list

Working in events means I travel a lot and over the years I've somewhat refined my packing list, infamously known as the "definitive" list.

I'm the first to admit I overpack.  I need to look my best while away and wouldn't dare say that I pack light... and though it's not perfect, this list works for me. So what are my necessities? 

CARRY ON

A selection of my packing essentials

A good book, pashmina shawl, phone and laptop chargers, wallet, phone, a USB, recharge stick, and sunnies. If travelling O.S. I make sure I have all my travel docs and passport, travel adaptor/s, neck pillow, pen and paper, and a travel blanket.

I also bring a clear plastic bag with "medical" items, including: Chewing gum, nasal spray, tissues, pressure relief earplugs for flying, compression stockings, wet wipes, travel toothbrush and paste, deodorant, hand sanitiser, lip balm, mini moisturiser, sunscreen, and a travel mirror.

Laptop Bag, picture care of Samsonite

Also with me at all times is my laptop. Unfortunately I've learned the hard way that carrying it separately can resulting in a lot of accidental drops. I will be buying something like the picture to the left - a case that slips over the handle of your suitcase and stays put.

Some people recommend you pack a change of clothing and underwear in case your luggage goes missing. Not a bad idea if you have the space, but my philosophy is you can always buy it at your destination if you have to.

CHECKED IN LUGGAGE

Anything I don't need goes into the suitcase.  This includes:

Toiletries 

Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo and conditioner, ear buds, dental floss, tweezers, safety razors, lint roller, hair brush and deodorant. Ladies: I also include make up, a hair curler/ straightener and feminine products.

Clothing

For me, this is always the toughest part of the packing process. I generally start by split this into two categories: day wear and evening wear. I then break these down into consecutive days, so as to not overpack.

Day wear:

Consists of comfy basics, like jeans and tee shirts, dresses and lazy items (such as tracksuits and singlets).

Evening wear:

Something a little dressier - generally a dress with heels. 

When it comes to shoes it can really weigh you down, literally. I try and pair several day wear combinations to one pair of shoes, and several evening items to one pair of shoes. Not always an easy task (I usually average 5-6 pairs of shoes for a 2-week trip - much needed improvement here).

The basics:

Obviously you'll also need to pack enough underwear, socks and pyjamas.

Accessories:

Once the outfits are sorted, then comes the accessories - hats, belts, jewellery, stockings, jackets...

I try to wear the heaviest clothing items on the flight to save on baggage, just in case I buy additional items while I'm away. These days, for a 2-week interstate trip, I'm averaging about 15 kilos (or 33 pounds) in checked in luggage.

Incidentals

If you're holidaying, you might want to take a camera. I've travelled with intent to use my digital Canon or just the ease of an iPhone. Both options have their positives - personal preference wins here.

There's usually a handbag and/ or shoulder sling I'll throw in, so I'm prepared for any occasion.

Pierre Cardin Hard Shell Suitcase

THE PACKING PROCESS

I really don't have a refined process when it comes to packing a suitcase. Some of my friends swear by the "cell" system (pods of packages segregated into like-for-like items). Others roll their clothing into tight sausages... I tend to lie everything as flat as possible, and pile it up. I'll keep handy items within easy reach by housing them in the internal mesh pouches, while shoes and other bulky items are kept within the inner zip/ clip-up compartment.

Domestically I'll travel with the biggest case I can use (I love my super-light Pierre Cardin hard shell case on multi-directional wheels). If I'm travelling O.S. I'll add a smaller hard shell case to my carry on.

I prefer to use cases that come inclusive with a TSA lock, but I also like to use a padlock with a key (because I'm not good with remembering codes).

And that, my friends, is my definitive packing list. I hope you've found it useful. What essentials do you like to include when you're packing for travel?