Plan my trip

Packing guides

Build the outfits first. Pack the shared pieces second.

Generic checklists create too many “just in case” items. Start with your real plans, then keep only the pieces that earn repeat wear.

Build my packing list
Woman packing a neutral travel wardrobe into a suitcase

Choose the constraint

Let the bag set the limit.

The planner uses the same method at three different capacities.

Personal item

8–12 core pieces

Best for 2–4 casual days with repeat wear, one capable shoe and no special-event outfit.

Carry-on

12–18 core pieces

The default for 3–7 days. Two shoes, one outer layer and an optional event look fit comfortably.

Checked bag

18–26 core pieces

Useful when formal events, cold-weather outerwear or specialized equipment genuinely require it.

Four simple passes

From itinerary to suitcase.

  1. 01

    Cover the plans

    Give every activity one complete, weather-capable outfit.

  2. 02

    Find the repeats

    Reuse compatible layers, shoes, bags and neutral foundations.

  3. 03

    Fit the bag

    Remove low-value duplicates without breaking a planned outfit.

  4. 04

    Add one backup

    Handle rain or a temperature shift without packing a second wardrobe.

Woman organizing clothing in an open carry-on suitcase

A useful starting point

A 12-piece carry-on capsule.

This is a framework, not a universal checklist. Weather, activities and dress codes decide which exact pieces fill each role.

3 tops2 bottoms1 dress1 outer layer2 shoes1 day bag2 small accessories
Make it specific to my trip

What counts as a piece?

Core piece count includes clothing, outerwear, shoes, bags and weather accessories. Underwear, sleepwear, toiletries and essential medical items stay separate because they should not compete with outfit optimization.

Wear in transit

Keep the bulkiest layer and most capable everyday shoe out of the bag.

Repeat deliberately

Neutral foundations repeat; a silhouette or accessory change keeps the outfit distinct.

Keep one buffer

Add a single functional contingency, not a second wardrobe.

Final ten-minute check

  • Every shoe appears in at least two looks unless an event requires it.
  • Every outer layer works over the outfits that need it.
  • Rain and walking surfaces are reflected in the shoe choice.
  • The transit outfit removes bulk from the suitcase.