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Tuesday, November 25, 2014

Packing for Paris

Good morning! Happy Tuesday. 

It's fly day for us. We are packed and off for a mini-vacation in Paris. 

Packing for a vacation is a true exercise in want versus need. And when you travel in colder weather, it gets even trickier.

We're only taking carry-on luggage, so every item counts. 

For me, here is what is making the cut. 

The Bag
When it comes to carry-on luggage, it has to be soft sided spinner. I like having pockets for putting in last minute items and because it's always with me, I don't have to worry about it getting tossed. And it makes for a faster airport exit. 



What I Packed
Because I am frequently cold, staying warm is a concern. But I also want to be able to move. No one wants to be this kid...



Luckily, I think I have found the perfect coat. It's a Land's End lightweight packable down 3/4 length coat. It has a hood and, even better, it has a belt to avoid the sleeping bag look of a normal puffer.  I have had it for about a month now and so far, so good. It's warm and roomy, allowing for thicker layers underneath.

Because Paris in November can be rainy, I am also bringing my Totes Bubble, thanks to a tip from Steph at Life According to Steph. I have had this for a few weeks as well, and it works great! And yes, you can bring it on-board the cabin. 





When it comes to the actual packing, I opted to try out packing cubes. I read about others who had used them, so I decided to give e-bags a try, and I'm glad I did. They made a huge difference. Everything is organized and I still have room in my carry-on. My husband was skeptical, but I am definitely going to get him a set as well. 



As for clothes, I am bringing anchor pieces that work together in neutral colors, like dark jeans, black trousers, neutral blouses, a black wrap dress, a black cardigan, a neutral scarf, tall black boots, and a pair of walking shoes. 

Because of the restriction limiting liquids to three ounces and a one-quart bag, I am a minimalist with my cosmetics...wait...who am I kidding? I am a minimalist with cosmetics anyway. Nevertheless, mascara, concealer, eye liner and a lip gloss  share space with my moisturizer, eye drops, and deodorant.

Throw in our camera, my vitamins, my iPad and assorted chargers and that's about it, minus the obvious delicates.  

My cross-body purse holds my passport, my wallet with my ID and Euros, my phone in its charging case and a protein bar...just in case. 

I like options, but I also know that it's silly to over-pack. 

No one wants this...




I am so excited to be heading back to Paris. It is one of my favorite places on earth. And what's better is that this week is about meandering hand-in-hand...there is no need to run around a sight see, since we've been there before. Paris is our forever city of love


How do you pack for a cold winter getaway when you have limited space available? What are your non-negotiables?







31 comments:

  1. I have to say I'm an over-packer, and I don't mind one bit.
    It sounds like an amazing weekend getaway to Paris! I visited once in 2007 and I'd love to go back soon. It would be wonderful to wander the streets without a worry in sight. Enjoy!

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    1. We had a great time, Tracy. Thank you so much for stopping by! Happy holidays!

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  2. The older I get, the less I bring. Paris is one of my favorite cities. I studied there in college. Safe travels!

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    1. Paris is one of our favorites too. We had a great time. Thank you so much for stopping by, Marci! Happy holidays!

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  3. I love this post. You really need so little. My husband and I have worked it out over the years to just bring a carry on and back pack, even if we are gone for a month!

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    1. Thank you, Nancy. We love using carry-ons only. We had a great time. Thank you so much for stopping by! Happy holidays!

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  4. You have me curious about ebags. I typically roll to pack but I'm intrigued by this. I've really attempted to not overpack the past two years and it's been great. I might also be falling into the the older I get the less I bring category like Marci above!

    I cannot wait to see your trip photos. Wishing you wonderful, safe travels and a very happy Thanksgiving.

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    1. I loved the ebags. It was easy to find stuff and everything was organized. I'm working on a recap, but getting back into the swing of things (and a cold) have slowed me down a bit. Have a great weekend!

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  5. Four tops, four bottoms and 2 dresses no matter the season or the weather. One change of clothes in the carry on just in case. I wear my favorite black cashmere scarf or have it in my carry on because it serves as a pillow, wrap, or accessory. Packing cubes are the best!

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    1. I loved the packing cubes too, Laura. And scarves are so versatile. We had a great time. Thank you so much for stopping by! Happy holidays!

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  6. Did not know you were headed there! If you have time go for a splurgy meal at LaTruffiere in the 7th. My favorite restaurant from my trip!!!! Enjoy!!!!!

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    1. We had a great time, Candace. LOVE Paris! Can't wait to get together with other NCM bloggers. :-) Happy holidays.

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  7. After years of traveling cross-country for college, I finally got better at packing. Which is good, because I definitely would end up only wearing a small amount of what I brought! Have a great trip!

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    1. Thank you, Kate. We had a great time, Tracy. Thank you so much for stopping by! Happy holidays!

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  8. Oh I am so jealous!! I want to be off to Paris! I usually overpack but I always have a cardigan and one of those light weight scarves in a cute pattern. I like simple pieces that I can dress up with a necklace or heels.

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    1. Wardrobe versatility is key. We had a great time, Karen. Thank you so much for stopping by! Happy holidays!

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  9. I'm an under packer. I figure I can buy what I didn't think I needed.

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    1. You are so right, Jeannie. Thank you so much for stopping by! Happy holidays!

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  10. Have a great trip. Say hello to the La Tour Eiffel for me. I used to live there.

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    1. Pat, you are so lucky!! I would love an apartment there. Thank you so much for stopping by! Happy holidays!

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  11. My husband is the over packer in this relationship, but can I just say...I will pack for you if I can go!

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    1. Unfortunately, there was no room in my carry-on, Mandy, but if I ever get that apartment, you're in. Happy holidays!

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  12. I try to wear my heavy items on travel day, but I do tend to over pack. I am weird about my hair care products and my hair is really long. Hope you have an amazing time in Paris!!

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    1. I wear my heaviest items on travel day too. Hair products get tricky, given carry-on restrictions. Happy Friday!

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  13. I've been traveling more for work (domestically) and I've got it down to a science that all I take is a backpack that fits under the seat in front of me. It's nice. Colder weather presents a bit of a challenge, but you're definitely a pro!

    Have fun in Paris!

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    1. Thanks, Rachel. We had a great time. Happy Friday!

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  14. O my gosh! So jealous! Have fun and yes, stay warm and dry ;)

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    1. We had a great time. Rebecca. Warm and dry. Happy Friday!

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  15. I would love to know what is so special about that umbrella, as I travel often and didn't even realize that you couldn't bring umbrellas in the cabin!! Have a GREAT time in Paris, it will always be the most incredible city!

    Please let me know if you need a restaurant suggestion! And thank you for your comment today, it meant so much to me, that you read the blog and to hear your feedback!

    Angie from reasons to dress

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    1. The umbrella comes down around you and because it's clear, you have no vision restrictions. I love it. We had a great time. And I love your blog, Angela. I don't always comment, but I always read it. Happy Friday!

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  16. Sounds like you've got your packing routine down to a science! I'll have to look into those e-bags!!

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