Don't hesitate when packing: try the 5-4-3-2-1 method
Traveling is one of life's greatest pleasures, but what a pain it is when it comes to playing Tetris with the things you need to take on a trip and still remain within the baggage limits. Finding the compromise between packing everything you need when travelling, but also leaving room for a few purchases is a difficult puzzle to solve.
So why not get rid of the problem and only bring the bare essentials? Of course, this runs the risk of us forgetting something vital. The solution? It could be to try a method that seems almost scientific: it's called the "5-4-3-2-1" method.
This is not a countdown, but an effective way to remember the ideal (or highly recommended) quantities of different categories of clothes and accessories that you should take with you on vacation.
Specifically, these numbers refer to:
- 5 tops: whether they are sweaters, T-shirts, tank tops or something else, it depends on what type of trip you're taking, where, at what time of the year;
- 4 trousers/skirts: these will be combined with the tops, by style and use;
- 3 dresses (or one-piece garments): 3 pairs of shoes (or just two, if space is limited);
- 2 bathing suits (which could perhaps be replaced by other equipment for specific sporting activities, if you don't swim); and 2 bags (small ones that you can use daily, like a daybag or backpack);
- 1 watch, 1 hat, 1 pair of sunglasses: with accessories, take the most versitile ones.
Looking closely, with such a list, you can really bring a lot of things with you: packing this way should cover you for a 2 or 3-week holiday (if you are able to do some washing!). And if you roll up, or vacuum-pack these items, you will have even more space available.
An additional advantage to using this method? Well, it will also be easier to check the list when you pack to leave. What do you think of this method?
