Alright, let’s tackle the big question: how to pack as a plus-size traveler? What to bring, how to fit it all in, and when to start packing? Well, here’s the lowdown.
So, I’ve got a trip to New Jersey in just four days, and I’ve been giving some serious thought to what I need for this two-week getaway. It’s gotta be practical, you know, stuff that fits the bill for all the fun things I’ve got planned.
Keep it Simple: Packing Tips for Plus-size Travelers
Now, I’ll admit it, I’m a bit of a planner. Last year’s road trip from Florida to New Hampshire was a bit of a circus. It was my first real vacation since I was a teenager, and at 33, I was determined to have everything sorted. I went into overdrive, scouring blogs, watching YouTube videos, you name it. But looking back, I went a bit overboard. I mean, it’s not like there are no stores in New Hampshire! Sometimes, you just gotta trust that you’ll figure things out as you go. It’s all part of the adventure, right?
We somehow bought paper towels and napkins… It’s the same freaking thing. We bought small trash bags for trash or if something got wet. Never touched those either. While we were in New Hampshire, we bought 12 packs of soda for us while at the campsite. You know the store brand that’s 4 for 10. I never touched those either.
It’s crazy how much stuff we bought and didn’t use it.
If you won’t use it, don’t pack it
Packing to come back home was a whole other story. Over half of the stuff we bought was never touched, never even opened. Plus we ended up buying a folding table while we were up there. Don’t judge me! It came with 4 chairs too. (the prices between Florida and New Hampshire are crazy)
That table if bought in Florida would have been easily 50-100 bucks USED… We bought it for 13 dollars. For our small home, I wasn’t leaving it.
When packing to come home we didn’t have room for a lot of things. All the stuff we didn’t touch I found someone 2 stops over from us at the campsite in an RV and asked them if they wanted it. I would leave that stuff behind in a heartbeat, but not my table! At first, they refused but ultimately accepted. We also offered another guy there if he wanted a case of water.
Lesson learned about overpacking
Because of that trip, I learned a lot, especially as a Plus-Size Traveler and definitely how to pack to maximize space. Since it was in the 40s and raining we didn’t change our clothes that often. That’s what happens when you camp. We didn’t have to pack as many clothes either.
Although this time is different. I am flying not driving. Still applying all the lessons I have learned. I was very cautious about the clothes I picked out for 2 weeks. As I said in a previous post, I had been just throwing things I thought I “might” want to bring.
Since I leave in 4 days. I started going through everything I put in my suitcase. The wheels started turning and made me think am I really going to wear this? I had to be honest with myself.
How to Pack As a Plus-size Traveler
Taking time to create outfits
When it comes to putting together outfits, I always begin with the clothes I know I love and feel great in. You know, those pieces that instantly boost your confidence and make you excited to wear them. Starting with these items is like laying down a solid foundation for a house – it gives me a good starting point and sets the tone for the rest of my wardrobe decisions.
Once I’ve got my favorite pieces sorted, I move on to the ones I’m not so sure about. You know, those clothes that sometimes end up collecting dust in the back of the closet because you’re not sure how to style them. I take the time to try them on, mix and match them with my base favorites, and see if I can create some killer combinations. It’s all about experimenting and finding unexpected pairings that work surprisingly well together. Plus, it’s kind of fun playing dress-up and discovering new outfit possibilities!
Lastly, I think about practicality and versatility. Sure, that statement blouse might look amazing, but if it only goes with one specific pair of pants that I’m not even bringing on the trip, it’s probably not the best choice. I aim for pieces that can be mixed and matched easily, creating multiple outfits with just a few items. It’s about packing smart and making the most out of what I’ve got, so I can look and feel my best no matter where my travels take me.
Try on pieces
When it comes to what and how to pack as a plus-size traveler, it’s definitely a challenge. As someone on the larger side, it’s not just about throwing things in a bag and calling it a day. For me, it’s a process of carefully selecting what to bring and ensuring it all works together. This means taking the time to try on each piece, especially those I’m unsure about, and asking myself some key questions.
First off, does it fit me well? This is crucial because comfort is key when traveling, and ill-fitting clothes can quickly ruin a trip. Then, I have to consider whether each item matches with the rest of my wardrobe. It’s not just about individual pieces but how they complement each other to create different outfits. Lastly, I think about practicality: how often will I actually wear this item with the others I’m bringing? It’s about maximizing versatility while minimizing unnecessary bulk.
What to pack in my suitcase?
I ended up choosing the following:
6 Pants
6 Shirts
3 Cardigans
1 Leather jacket
3 Pairs of shoes
3 Bras
2 PJ Sets
8 Socks
8 Underwear
This includes the outfit I am wearing to the airport.
From there I looked at the items I chose and sat at my computer. I wrote myself a list of all the ways I could wear each item. I am only going to be gone for 14 days. So, my goal was to pack 1 outfit a day for 7 days.
I mean 6 shirts and 6 pairs of pants are really good. This gave me 12 outfits. I will also be able to do laundry. 12 outfits aren’t bad for mixing and matching all the items. I don’t mind repeating outfits. I am not picky.
The biggest issue is now done and out of the way, for now.
What about the other essentials?
First thing first, when it came to beauty products… I am a minimalist. Because I am staying with family, my cousin, and her daughter. I figured I wouldn’t need shampoo, conditioner or body wash. They will have it, if not I can buy it at the store.
I have a simple makeup routine that I can do in 10 minutes if I decide to put makeup on. Its primer, foundation, concealer, eyeliner, blush, eye shadow, mascara, and loose powder. BAM DONE!
I have watched a lot of “Pack with me” videos on YouTube and some of these girls go crazy. Straighteners, blow dryers, and curling irons… I am so glad I am low maintenance. Stuff like that I don’t want or need weighing down my suitcase.
I mean if you enjoy that kind of thing good for you, please come teach me how, but as for right now, I don’t need it. It’s family time, not going to New York Fashion Week.
What to pack in my beauty bag?
Face wash
Dry shampoo
Lotion
Toothbrush
Toothpaste
Floss
Makeup remover
Feminine hygiene products
Makeup
Brushes
Razor and a refill
This is packed in my checked suitcase. I am bringing just a laptop bag and my backpack as my carry-on.
What to pack in my laptop bag?
Laptop & Charger
Cellphone
Charger
iPod
Charger
Headphones
Book
Notebook
What to pack in my purse?
Wallet
Some Make up
Snacks
Reusable Water Bottle
Cellphone
Brush
Pens
Facial wipes
Baby Wipes
Now that I have figured out what I am bringing I have been slowly packing everything. Not too much since I don’t leave for another 4 days and we have a family event we are going to tomorrow night on the 20th.
In the end, it doesn’t even matter
Yes, I quoted Linkin Park…
All in all the only advice I can give about being a Plus-Size Traveler and packing is to make sure you bring things you are going to use. Not things you “think” you will use. I know we all want to look good on vacation and have all the Instagram-worthy posts. It all comes down to functionality and comfort. Don’t use vacation as the time to try new looks or beauty products.
Vacation is about having fun and exploring. Make memories to share, because I think what matters most is what you have to share rather than what you’re wearing. I hope this inspired you on how to pack as a Plus-size Traveler when it comes to your next trip.
I hope you all enjoyed this post and remember to check back. I will be sharing a Travel Day to-do list (more like a what-not-to-do list).
Until Next Time, Have a Great Day!
I am a bit larger, so I also try to pack less items. This is a nice helpful packing list.
I tried to be intentional with my packing. I should have packed less because my cousin sent me home with some clothes.
This is really important to learn as a traveler. I used to pack a lot of things and it was really uncomfortable. I read a lot of articles like this and I learned a lot. This is really helpful and beginner travelers should read about this.
Glad I could help a bit.
A good-read for travellers. In travelling, pack the essentials only.
I learned this the hard way.
I am a plus-size traveler too, and this list is really good!
Thank you, Monidipa.
These tips are very nice tips for travelers. Noted on this when I go wandering somewhere.
Thank you!
This list so helpful, I sometimes having a hard time packing stuff. I will bookmark this for reference.
Glad I could help Agnes!
I am definitely an over packer but I agree with you that making outfits is a great way to keep things organized when you pack and helps to eliminate taking clothing you won’t wear.
I really try to be better with each trip I take.
“If you won’t use it, don’t pack it” This is the biggest advice and most important one too! I will remember this!
That is the best advice I have given myself.
These are great tips, I am a sucker for packing only what I need and never above or under.
I always play the what-if game.
I love this idea of if you won’t use it, don’t pack it! haha Sometimes we just do too much and project to much into the future.
That is the best advice I have ever given myself.
I love to pack almost everything I need.and it’s my very bad habit..this article is very helpful.. thanks for sharing…😇
I have to edit and then edit again. And then edit one more time for good mesasure.
I am a huge over-packer, but gradually learning to keep it simple. Now, I and my husband manage to share one huge piece of luggage for both our belongings, with enough space for any travel purchases.
That is our goal. One bag for both of us.