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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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!

Middle Part Sew In – A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners

Are you tired of your natural hair or current hairstyle and want to switch up? One option that’s growing in popularity is the middle part sew in. This style allows for versatility, as it can be styled in different ways and is low maintenance. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about getting a middle part sew in.

What is a Middle Part Sew In?

A middle part sew-in is a method of adding extensions to your natural hair by sewing them onto braids. They are typically done using human hair extensions, making them more versatile and natural-looking than synthetic hair. The middle part refers to the placement of the braids, which creates a visible part down the middle of the head.

When Should You Get a Middle Part Sew Style?

A middle part sew-in is a great option for anyone looking for a low-maintenance yet stylish hairstyle. It’s perfect for those who want to add length, volume, or color to their hair without the commitment of other methods like dying or cutting. It’s also ideal for people with natural hair who want to protect it from heat styling or other damage.

How to Get a Middle Part Sew In Hairstyle

Getting a middle part sew-in requires some preparation and careful execution. Here are the steps to follow:

Step 1: Choose Your Hair Extensions

Selecting the right hair extensions is crucial to achieve a natural-looking and long-lasting sew-in. Human hair extensions are the best choice since they blend well with your natural hair and can be styled just like your real hair. Look for hair extensions that match your hair texture, color, and length.

Step 2: Braid Your Natural Hair

Next, your natural hair needs to be braided into cornrows to serve as a base for the sew-in. The braiding pattern depends on the desired style and can be done in different ways, such as straight back, circular, or zigzag. Make sure your hair is clean and detangled before braiding to avoid any tangles or pulling.

Step 3: Sew-In the Extensions

After the cornrows are done, the extensions can be sewn onto the braids. A needle and thread are used to secure the extensions onto the braids, starting from the back and working towards the front. The stylist will also create a middle part by leaving out some of your natural hair and sewing the extensions around it.

Step 4: Style and Finish

Once the sew-in is complete, you can style it as desired. You can curl, straighten, or braid the hair, and even add accessories like hair clips or headbands. It’s important to take care of your sew-in properly to make it last longer, such as using a silk bonnet or pillowcase to protect the hair while sleeping.

Pros and Cons 

Like any other hairstyle, a middle part sew-in has its advantages and disadvantages. Here are some pros and cons to consider:

Pros

  • Low maintenance: A middle part sew-in requires minimal upkeep, making it perfect for those with a busy lifestyle.
  • Versatility: This hairstyle can be styled in various ways, giving you endless styling options.
  • Natural-looking: Human hair extensions blend well with your natural hair, making the sew-in look natural and realistic.
  • Hair protection: A sew-in protects your natural hair from damage caused by heat styling or other harsh treatments.

Cons

  • Expensive: Human hair extensions can be costly, making this hairstyle more expensive than others.
  • Installation time: Getting a sew-in takes several hours, so plan accordingly.
  • Heavy: Depending on the number of extensions used, a sew-in can feel heavy and uncomfortable.
  • Risk of hair breakage: If the sew-in is not done correctly or not taken care of properly, it can lead to hair breakage.

Most fabulous middle part sew in hairstyles

Sleek and Straight Middle Part

Achieve a classic and sophisticated look with long, straight hair. A middle part sew-in with sleek, shiny hair can be both timeless and elegant. It works well for various occasions, from formal events to everyday wear.

Body Wave Middle Part Sew-In

For a more relaxed and natural appearance, opt for a body wave middle part sew-in. This style adds texture and movement to your hair, giving you a beachy, carefree look. It’s perfect for a chic, effortless vibe.

Curly Middle Part Sew-In

Embrace your inner diva with a curly middle part sew-in. You can choose loose curls or tighter ringlets, depending on your preference. This style exudes confidence and can be dressed up or down for various occasions.

Blunt Cut Bob with a Middle Part

If you’re looking for a shorter style, consider a blunt cut bob with a middle part. This chic and modern hairstyle is versatile and can be customized to your preferred length. It’s perfect for those who want a bold and trendy look.

Long Wavy Middle Part Sew-In

For a luxurious and glamorous appearance, opt for long wavy hair with a middle part sew-in. This style adds volume and dimension to your hair, making it suitable for special occasions and red carpet events.

Alternatives 

If you’re not sold on the idea of getting a middle part sew-in, there are other hairstyles you can consider. Here are some alternatives:

  • Wigs: Wigs allow you to switch up your hairstyle without the commitment of other methods. They come in various styles, colors, and textures, making them versatile and customizable.
  • Crochet braids: Similar to a sew-in, crochet braids use hair extensions that are crocheted onto braids instead of sewn. This method is quicker and less expensive than a sew-in but still achieves a natural-looking result.
  • Weaves: A weave involves sewing hair extensions onto a cap that’s attached to your natural hair. It’s a long-lasting option that allows for versatility and protects your natural hair.

FAQs

  1. How long does a middle part sew-in last? A middle part sew-in can last up to six weeks with proper maintenance.
  2. Can I wash my hair while wearing a sew-in? Yes, you can wash your hair while wearing a sew-in. However, it’s recommended to avoid getting the braids too wet, as this can cause them to loosen or become frizzy. You can use a dry shampoo or co-wash to clean your scalp and hair without soaking the braids.
  3. Can I remove the sew-in myself? It’s not recommended to remove the sew-in yourself, as this can cause damage to your natural hair. It’s best to have a professional stylist remove the sew-in to ensure that it’s done safely and correctly.
  4. How long does it take to install a middle part sew-in? The installation time for a middle part sew-in varies, but it can take anywhere from 2-4 hours depending on the stylist and the complexity of the braiding pattern.
  5. Can I still workout with a middle part sew-in? Yes, you can still workout with a middle part sew-in. But, you should also avoid excessive sweating and washing your hair too often, as this can cause the sew-in to loosen or become frizzy.

Final Takeaway

In summary, a middle part sew-in is a great choice for anyone who wants to switch up their hairstyle without damaging their natural hair. With proper care and maintenance, a sew-in can give you the confidence and convenience of a new hairstyle while protecting your hair from damage. So why not give it a try and see how it can transform your look?