MASTERING THE ART OF CARRY-ON PACKING FOR A 10-DAY TRIP
Packing for 10 Days in a Carry-On: Yes, You Can Do It! Confession time: I used to be an extreme over-packer. I always believed that any trip lasting a week or more required a giant, stuffed suitcase. But after my recent adventure in Nova Scotia (which you can read about here and here), I decided to challenge myself. I successfully packed for a 10-day trip using just one carry-on suitcase! It was no easy feat; I had to be incredibly mindful and selective about what I packed. But honestly, it turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve made. I’m now convinced that for most trips—even those lasting over a week—opting for a carry-on makes travel so much easier. As I gear up for my upcoming trip to New Brunswick, I’m challenging myself once more to fit 10 days’ worth of clothing into my carry-on. Plus, let’s be real: I had to go for the budget-friendly option and avoid extra fees for checked luggage. So, here I am, ready to prove that packing light is not only possible but also liberating!
So why bother trying to fit everything into a carry-on suitcase you may ask?
While packing 10 days’ worth of clothes into a carry-on suitcase may seem daunting, there are plenty of compelling reasons to give it a shot:
Avoid Extra Fees: Many airlines now charge for checked luggage, which is a major reason I choose to travel with a carry-on. I’d rather save on flight costs and have that extra cash available for other trip expenses.
No Lost Luggage Worries: One of my biggest travel fears is losing my suitcase. I always worry that my bag will go missing and won’t be returned until halfway through my trip. Thankfully, it hasn’t happened to me yet (knock on wood!), but traveling with a carry-on gives me peace of mind knowing my belongings are always with me.
Skip Baggage Claim: The stress of waiting endlessly at baggage claim is the worst! Sometimes it can take hours for luggage to arrive, and who wants to deal with that? With a carry-on, you can hop off the plane and head straight to your destination while others are stuck waiting for their bags.
Less Overpacking: Limited space in a carry-on forces you to be selective about what you pack. This means fewer clothing items and shoes, resulting in less weight and hassle. Plus, you won’t have to worry about finding room for souvenirs since there won’t be much extra space!
How I plan to pack a 10-day vacation in a carry-on
Creat a pa Take a moment to jot down everything you think you’ll need for your trip, whether it’s on paper or in your phone. While I usually have no problem packing my clothes, it’s the smaller items that I often forget if I don’t write them down. Consider essentials like phone and camera chargers, sunglasses, makeup, and more. Personally, I find it more challenging to decide what to include in my personal item bag than in my carry-on. So, be sure to make that list!
Plan Your Outfits!
Consider what activities you’ll be doing on your trip. Are you headed to a warm destination where you’ll be in a swimsuit all day, or will you be participating in adventurous activities? Perhaps you’ll do a bit of both! Whatever your itinerary looks like, be mindful of your plans. For example, our upcoming trip to New Brunswick will involve plenty of outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and cycling, so I’m primarily packing activewear and comfortable clothing.
Choose Your Clothing Wisely!
Select versatile pieces that can be worn multiple times and mixed and matched to create different outfits. Neutrals are a great choice, as they can easily pair with just about anything. Additionally, consider packing layering options to accommodate unpredictable weather or cooler temperatures. Items like tank tops, t-shirts, and cardigans in neutral colors work well together and can be combined for various looks.
Packing Cubes Are Your Best Friend!
I instantly fell in love with packing cubes when I discovered them. As someone who thrives on organization, I appreciate how functional they are. They keep your clothes tidy and make it much easier to locate each item. I picked up a set of lightweight packing cubes from Amazon, and after using them on several trips, I can confidently say they’ve held up beautifully.
I typically sort my clothing into separate packing cubes: bottoms in one, shirts in another, and bras, underwear, and pajamas in a third. This way, you won’t have to dig through your neatly folded clothes to find a specific item, as everything is kept in its designated space.
Pack Your Carry-On Effectively
Using packing cubes is a great way to organize your carry-on, but there are other effective methods to consider as well. For instance, you can roll your clothes to save space, or try the KonMari folding technique, which allows you to arrange your items upright for better visibility. Another clever space-saving trick is to stuff smaller items, like socks, inside larger ones, such as shoes. Alternatively, you can use larger ziplock bags in place of packing cubes to keep your clothing organized. Personally, I prefer the KonMari method for folding clothes, as it makes it much easier to see everything at a glance, rather than having items stacked on top of each other.
Bring Only Essential Toiletries
When packing a carry-on, you’re limited in the liquids you can bring. Generally, you can only carry liquids in containers of 100ml (3.4 fluid oz) or less, all of which must fit into a single one-liter clear zipped bag. To save space, consider using solid alternatives for your liquid toiletries. For instance, opt for bar soap instead of body wash, solid shampoo and conditioner instead of their liquid counterparts, and solid deodorant instead of gel or liquid. Depending on your needs, it might be more practical to purchase some items upon arrival or to skip them altogether. Most hotels and bed and breakfasts provide essential amenities like soap, shampoo, and hair dryers.
Plan What You’ll Wear to the Airport
Certain clothing items can take up significantly more space in your suitcase. To maximize space, wear your bulkier items to the airport, such as running shoes, jackets, and sweaters.
What I packed for a 10-day trip to New Brunswick
Here’s i packed for a 10-day trip to new brunswick. I know it may seem like a lot of clothes, but I still struggle with overpacking (though I promise I’ve made progress!). Honestly, I tend to get stains on my clothing, so having backup pieces—along with some Tide-to-Go—is essential for me.
CONCLUSION
So there you have it—proof that you can fit 10 days’ worth of clothes into a suitcase! With a bit of planning and coordination, I promise you can travel with just a carry-on as well!
P.S. Don’t forget to check for any furry friends before heading off on your trip!
DATE NIGHT BEAUTY TIPS TO ATTRACT ALL EYES
Ditch the tired notion of beauty routines meant to turn heads of strangers across the room. Date night is about celebrating a special connection, and your radiance should reflect that! Let’s explore some beauty tips that will turn up your confidence and leave your date utterly smitten. We’ll focus on a pre-date prep that enhances your natural glow, makeup that flatters your features, and overall touches that make you feel gorgeous from the inside out. So get ready to captivate your date, not the entire room!
6 BASIC PREPARATION STEPS FOR ACHIEVING AN ATTRACTIVE LOOK
GET DATE NIGHT READY WITH A GLOWING COMPLEXION
Time to get your beautiful skin ready to shine! A healthy glow is the perfect base for a stunning look. First, wash your face gently to get rid of any dirt or oil. Then, use a scrub to buff away dry, dead skin cells. This will make your skin smoother and brighter. Exfoliating is super important because it helps your makeup go on easier and last longer – win win!
UNLEASH YOUR EYE BEAUTY
Let’s make your eyes, those gorgeous windows to your soul, truly shine! To fight any puffiness or dark circles (we’ve all been there!), dab on a light, moisturizing eye cream. Next, use a nude or light-colored eyeshadow primer on your lids. This acts like a base for your makeup, making it go on smoother and last longer.
Now for the fun part – color time! While smoky eyes are classic for a date night, there are many ways to go. Here’s one option: blend a pretty, shimmery eyeshadow into your crease. Then, use a slightly darker shade to add definition in the outer corners of your eyes. Finish with a few coats of mascara that plumps up your lashes. Boom! You’ve got gorgeous, eye-catching eyes that will definitely grab your date’s attention.
CREATE A KISS-READY SMILE
Let’s get those lips kiss-ready! Soft, smooth lips are a must-have for any date night. Before you put on any lipstick or gloss, gently buff your lips with a soft toothbrush or a scrub made with sugar. This will get rid of any dry skin flakes and make your lipstick go on smoother and last longer.
Next, line your lips with a pencil that matches your lipstick color (or is close to your natural lip color). This helps your lips look more defined and keeps your lipstick from bleeding outside the lines. Now for the fun part! Pick your favorite lipstick – a creamy one works well. Apply it in the center of your lips and blend it outwards. Want some extra sparkle? Dab a little gloss in the center of your lips. And there you have it – kissable lips that are sure to impress your date!
STYLE YOUR HAIR
Now that your makeup is on point, let’s turn our attention to creating a date-night hairstyle that complements your overall look. Remember, the key is to feel confident and beautiful, so choose a style that flatters your hair type and makes you feel amazing. Here are some ideas to get you started:
Classic and Effortless: For a timeless look, try sleek straight hair with a smooth blowout. You can add a center or side part for a touch of personality.
Romantic Curls: Soft, bouncy curls are always a hit. Use a curling iron or braid damp hair overnight for natural-looking waves.
Half-Up Hairstyles: Half-up styles are a great way to keep your hair out of your face while still showing off its length. Try a simple twist or braid along the crown, or a messy bun for a relaxed vibe.
Polished Ponytail: A high ponytail is a chic and sophisticated option. For a more relaxed feel, try a low ponytail with some wispy strands framing your face.
Embrace Your Natural Texture: If you have naturally curly or wavy hair, rock your beautiful texture! Apply a leave-in conditioner to control frizz and enhance your natural bounce.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to accessorize! Headbands, barrettes, and clips can add a touch of personality and help keep your style in place.
SET MAKEUP FOR LONG-LASTING WEAR
All that work deserves to stay flawless throughout your date night! To lock in your stunning look, here’s the secret to long-lasting makeup.
First, grab a translucent powder and dust it lightly over your entire face, focusing on your T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin) where shine tends to show up. This mattifies your skin and absorbs oil throughout the night.
Next, instead of a heavy setting spray, use a hydrating one. This will “melt” your makeup together for a natural, glowy finish that lasts.
Finally, toss some blotting papers, powder, and your favorite lipstick in your purse. With these touch-up essentials, you can refresh your look throughout the night, staying picture-perfect from that first sip to the last bite of dessert.
EXPLORE MORE VERSATILE ACCESSORIES
The final touch! Now it’s time to accessorize and turn your date night into a masterpiece. Accessories are like decorations on your cupcake – they add personality and polish.
First, choose an item that reflects both your outfit and your emotions. A chunky bracelet, eye-catching earrings or a sparkling cocktail ring can instantly elevate your look. Want more sophistication? Add a sleek belt to accentuate your waist or a chic clutch to complete the outfit.
But that’s not all! Don’t forget the power of fragrance. A little bit of your favorite scent can be the most unforgettable accessory. Choose a perfume that makes you feel confident and seductive, whether it’s a timeless floral scent or a mysterious musk blend. If possible, consider best-selling women’s perfumes. Trust me, your date will remember your charm long after the night is over.
6 DATE NIGHT LOOKS YOU MIGHT LIKE
TO A FIRST DATE
Here’s a breakdown of date-night makeup looks that are perfect for a first date, keeping in mind that you want to enhance your natural beauty and feel confident:
The Naturally Flawless Look:
Focus on a fresh, even base: Apply a lightweight foundation or tinted moisturizer that matches your skin tone. Conceal any under-eye circles or blemishes for a polished look.
Soft and romantic: Keep your blush and eyeshadow soft and romantic. Opt for neutral or rosy tones that complement your skin tone and eye color. A light wash of shimmery eyeshadow adds a touch of sparkle without being overpowering.
Define your eyes: Line your upper lash line with a thin line of brown or dark gray eyeliner for a softer definition. Brown is less harsh than black, especially for daytime dates. Finish with a lengthening mascara to enhance your lashes.
Kissable lips: Choose a lipstick or gloss in a flattering shade. Keep it light and natural for daytime dates with a nude or pink shade. Save bold colors for a later date when you’re more comfortable with your date.
The Effortlessly Glam Look:
Flawless with a touch of coverage: Create a flawless base with a medium-coverage foundation and concealer. Apply a cool-toned contour for a subtle sculpted look.
Classic smokey eye: For the eyes, opt for a soft smokey eye in neutral brown or gray shades. Blend the colors seamlessly for a sophisticated look.
Dramatic lashes: Line your upper lash line with a black eyeliner pencil or gel and apply a volumizing mascara for dramatic lashes.
Timeless touch: Finish with a classic red lip for a timeless touch of glamour.
TO AN EXCURSION
Glowing skin and effortless beauty are key for an adventure-filled date night! Since you’ll be on the move, prioritize makeup that stays put and feels comfortable. Here’s how to achieve this:
Light and Lasting: Ditch the heavy foundation and opt for a lightweight, long-wearing tinted moisturizer. It evens out your skin tone without feeling cakey, perfect for all that activity.
Bronzed and Beautiful: A touch of bronzer adds warmth and dimension to your face. Focus on applying it to your forehead, cheeks, and jawline for a natural sun-kissed look.
Defined Yet Simple: For your eyes, choose neutral eyeshadow shades in brown or taupe. These define your eyes without being too dramatic, ideal for all the sights you’ll see. A quick swipe of brown or black eyeliner and a coat of lengthening mascara will complete your eye look.
Pop of Color (Optional): Feeling playful? Add a pop of color with a waterproof cream blush on your cheeks and apples of your face. This will add a touch of fun and stay put during your adventure.
Kiss-Proof Pout: For your lips, choose a comfortable, long-lasting lip tint in a rosy or nude shade. This ensures your lips stay colorful throughout your excursion, whether you’re grabbing a bite to eat or sharing a kiss at the peak of a hike.
TO A MUSEUM
Let’s create a museum date night makeup look that’s both cultured and captivating! Since museums often involve a lot of walking and looking up at art, prioritize comfort and long-wear.
Here’s the key:
Flawless Base: Start with a lightweight foundation or tinted moisturizer that evens your skin tone. Apply a touch of concealer to brighten under-eye circles or blemishes.
Bronzed Beauty: A touch of bronzer adds warmth and dimension to your face. Focus on applying it to your forehead, cheeks, and jawline for a natural sun-kissed look.
Defined Eyes: For the eyes, choose neutral eyeshadow shades in brown or taupe. This adds definition without being overly dramatic. A thin line of brown or black eyeliner along your upper lash line and a coat of lengthening mascara will complete your eye look.
Pop of Color: Want a touch of personality? Add a pop of color with a vibrant eyeshadow shade on your lower lash line – a teal or emerald green would complement a classic brown eye look beautifully. Just keep the application light and blend it softly.
Kissable Lips: For your lips, choose a comfortable, long-lasting lipstick or lip tint in a rosy or nude shade. This will stay put throughout your museum adventure and ensure you look polished for any post-museum dinner plans.
TO GO DANCING
Dancing the night away with your date? Let’s create a makeup look that stays put! Since you’ll be sweating on the dance floor, use long-lasting products that feel comfortable.
Smooth Start: Begin with a primer to make your makeup last longer. Pick a mattifying one to keep shine away.
Flawless Base: Apply a lightweight, long-wearing foundation that matches your skin tone. Avoid heavy layers to let your skin breathe.
Pop of Color: Use neutral or rosy blush and eyeshadow that match your outfit. A bit of shimmer on your lids will catch the light when you move.
Defined Eyes: Line your upper lash line with waterproof eyeliner. Finish with volumizing mascara that won’t smudge or flake.
Lasting Lips: Choose a liquid lipstick or lip stain in a bold or fun shade. These last longer and stay put even with drinks or kisses.
TO THE BEACH
Beach breezes and salty air call for a makeup look that’s both beach-proof and beautiful! Since you’ll be outdoors and soaking up the sun, focus on waterproof formulas and a light, natural look. Here’s your beach date night makeup guide:
Shine Under Control: Start with a primer specifically designed for oily skin or mattifying primer to control shine throughout the night.
Light and Lasting: Apply a lightweight, waterproof foundation that matches your skin tone. Skip the heavy layers – you want your skin to breathe and feel comfortable under the sun.
Sun-Kissed Glow: Enhance your natural radiance with a touch of bronzer on your forehead, cheeks, and jawline. Opt for cream bronzer for a dewy finish that blends seamlessly.
Waterproof Eyes: For your eyes, keep things simple with waterproof eyeshadow in neutral or shimmery shades. Line your upper lash line with a waterproof eyeliner pencil or gel, and finish with waterproof mascara to prevent smudging from the beach elements.
Beach-Ready Lips: Skip the heavy lipstick and opt for a tinted lip balm or a waterproof lip gloss in a sheer pink or coral shade. This will add a hint of color while keeping your lips hydrated and kissable.
TO A ROMANTIC DINNER
Setting the mood for a romantic dinner date night calls for a makeup look that’s both glamorous and effortless. Here’s how to achieve a balance of elegance and beauty:
Flawless Canvas: Start with a flawless base using a medium-coverage foundation that matches your skin tone. Apply concealer to brighten under-eye circles and camouflage any blemishes for a polished look.
Warm Glow: For a touch of warmth and dimension, sweep a bronzer over your forehead, cheeks, and jawline. This creates a natural sun-kissed effect that complements the candlelit dinner ambiance.
Smokey Elegance: Enhance your eyes with a classic smokey eye. Opt for neutral brown or charcoal eyeshadow shades, blending them seamlessly for a sophisticated look. A touch of shimmer on the lid adds a touch of glam without being overpowering.
Line and Define: Line your upper lash line with a black eyeliner pencil or gel for added definition. Finish with volumizing mascara to create dramatic, fluttery lashes that will captivate your date.
Perfect Pout: For your lips, choose a lipstick that complements your overall look. A classic red lip is a timeless choice for a romantic dinner, or opt for a deep berry shade for a touch of mystery. Finish with a lip liner to ensure precise application and prevent color bleeding.
FAQ
1. What’s the most important thing for date night makeup?
Focus on feeling confident and beautiful in your own skin! Enhance your natural features and choose makeup that makes you feel comfortable and radiant.
2. What kind of mascara should I use for a date night?
Look for a volumizing mascara that will lengthen and define your lashes. Waterproof mascara is a good choice if you’re prone to smudging or sweating.
3. What lipstick color is best for a date night?
A classic red lip is a timeless choice for a romantic dinner. For a more daytime date, opt for a nude or pink shade. You can also try a bold berry shade for a touch of mystery.
4. How can I make my makeup last all night?
Use a primer to create a smooth canvas for your makeup. Apply long-wearing foundation and waterproof formulas for eyes and lips. Set your makeup with a setting spray to help it stay put throughout the night.
5. What if I’m going on an active date night, like hiking or biking?
Use waterproof and sweatproof formulas for your makeup. Skip heavy foundation and opt for a tinted moisturizer. Choose a long-lasting lip tint or lip balm.
CONCLUSION
While these tips and tricks can guide you in creating a stunning look, remember, the most attractive quality you can bring to a date night is your confidence. When you feel good in your own skin and radiate self-assurance, that’s what will truly turn heads and capture your date’s attention. So go forth, embrace your inner beauty, and have a fabulous date night!
