Bonnie,

We travel extensively and always have just one carry-on apiece. Last trip was to Japan for three weeks. One carry-on apiece.
We take two pairs of jeans or one pair jeans and two shorts. Short sleeve tops with one jacket. Think layers for cool evenings.

I take one pair of flip-flops and one pair of sneakers which I wear. I don't do accessories. I am traveling not going to a fashion show!

All toiletries for a few days are in tiny hotel bottles in case the hotel doesn't provide them.

Do your laundry in the hotel bathroom sink if you need to wash a few things. I refuse to do laundry on vacation.

I don't take a hair dryer. Most hotels provide them and if they don't, I air-dry.

If I were going for four days, I would pack in a large purse.

Here's a picture of me and my luggage in Venice (for proof !)

Linda

For a warm holiday, I pack a pair of chaco's for beach wear and hiking and a pair of comfortable cork wedges in a neutral shade for dinners out.

A beach weekend is perfect for packing light! Two bathing suits, two cover ups, a few sundresses, undies. Maybe one pair of shorts and a t shirt. One pair of flip flops for the beach, another for the sundresses. Sneakers if you're doing lots of walking. If you're traveling from a cooler climate, just wear a sweatshirt or light jacket on the plane so you'll have that if you need it. Wear a pair of earrings that go with everything and forget the other accessories. I overpack too, but even I could do a 4-day beach trip with a carry-on!

Dress for your destination not your departure point. Wear clothes and shoes you will wear in Florida, rather than packing them.

I carry a lot of toiletries. To really cut down on space, I actually put them in ziplock snack bags , then put them altogether in a TSA regulation size bag.

Carry a backpack ( oh no , not this again) and slip a cute summery clutch in it.

Call the hotel and find out what amenities they have that you needn't pack.

Have fun. !

Just make sure your bag is regulation sized, some of the airlines are being more strict with carry on luggage size ... rightly so, since so many take advantage and bring larger bags that are stuffed to the gills, barely fit in the overhead compartments and endanger other passengers with concussions when they attempt to dislodge them from the bins.

Just returned from a wk in Fl. last night. DH and I each had two carry-ons.

Space Bags are a godsend, IMHO. I actually brought more than I needed but I always like to have options should the weather change (and it did!:)). I had two light jackets, three pair of sandals, one pair of loafers, one pair of jeans, four pair of capris pants, one pair of leggings, several tops (approx. 7-9), plus I made a Chico's purchase of another top while there, one swimsuit, one cover-up and a pair of shorts, several necklaces, bracelets, one scarf, a night shirt and undies. All toiletries and a small purse were in the smaller bag.

(Space Bags, I tell ya!)

This post was edited by funnygirl on Mon, Mar 10, 14 at 20:03

Love, love these packing cubes; you can roll and pack so much into them!

I layer and wear my bulkiest clothing (jeans, jacket, walking shoes) on the plane, to save space in luggage.

When choosing which tops/bottoms to take - the lightest get picked.

In addition to the carry-on bag, I bring a small duffel that I put my purse & other stuff in - that will fit under the seat in front of me.

When I arrive in my destination, I buy a bottle of inexpensive shampoo (I use a lot of it and don't want to use up my quart size carry-on allowance with that).

Lastly, I realize if there is anything I didn't bring, that I find I "really" need when I get there - I'll buy it when I get there. (My first trip to HI, I didn't bring any socks or aspirin. Discovered my back was sore from the long flight and some of the outer islands were colder than expected; easily bought both there.)

Check out the Vivienne Files...she does a great job of showing basics and how to mix and match for maximum outfits out of minimum pieces. She also makes great use of accessories which are small and easy to pack but can change up an outfit. She also makes a big point about what to wear on the plane so it becomes part of your wardrobe but need not be packed to save space. In the wardrobe linked below, I would probably replace one of the skirts with another pair of pants or shorts, but that is actually more than you need for 4 days. You should be fine to fit it all in a carry on.

Not sure where you are going, but my experience of FL is that it is extremely casual, even for dinner. So don't bring fancy, bring basics.

Also, packing for warm weather is easier as shorts and t shirts take up a lot less space than winter gear, sweaters and such.

When I pack, I start out by opening the suit case compartment up, and if it has wheels, there's typically space between the supports underneath. So lift the bottom...usually velcroed down....and use that space to lay in your underwear. Be careful not to catch anything on the velcro though. Then seal that down. Lay a plastic dry cleaner bag down next, across the bottom up the far side and over the lid. Then take any pants and dresses (anything long) and lay them straight out....waist band to the left and let the legs hang out over the right edge. Any skirts get folded in half and laid over top. Then take your shirts and other tops and fold them square. Lay them in 2 piles next to one another. In between is some space for some toiletries or make up. Always put them in a well sealed plastic bag in case something leaks. On top, place any jackets you may pack...button the jacket and lay the jacket down on the front. Fold the arms in across the back, then fold the front up over the back so the lapels are face up and neat. The jacket then gets laid over top of everything else. Last, fold the pants legs down over the other clothing so you won't get any creases in the knees. Then wrap the cleaner bag over it all and strap it in with the elastic straps. Around the outside of the bag, you now have room to stick anything else you need to carry...shoes, belts, scarves, small bag of jewelry (never bring good jewelry...only costume in case it's stolen). I've packed for business trips this way for years, have always had plenty of room for everything and have had little issues with wrinkling (for some reason, the cleaner bag makes a big difference). I hope it helps you.

I also carry a large purse or a knapsack for travel...I put things like magazines and a small regular purse inside, whatever I need on the plane...doubles as a duffle for beaching.

Here is a link that might be useful: Warm weather weekend wardrobe

This post was edited by AnnieDeighnaugh on Mon, Mar 10, 14 at 22:16

Also, check your airline's website...they list what size they consider to be a carry on...not all flights are the same....

I meant to mention, pack your bathing suit in a zip up plastic bag...this way, if your suit is wet when you leave, you have the bag to carry it in with you without getting the rest of your clothes wet.

Only take one bathing suit and coverup, and buy a new set there!
Two shorts
Three or four tops
Light jacket or sweater
Sundress
Sandals
Canvas shoes (espadrilles, Toms, etc)
I always take a scarf or two. A long white one could turn into a light wrap for your dress. One white mother of pearl scarf ring
One purse
Sunglasses
Phone/ charger/ ipad mini

Jewelry:
For a beach trip with a kid I'd probably only take two pair of earrings. With the colors you are using they would be nice pearl earrings and a pair of onyx stones in gold bezels. One medium weight gold necklace. If I was going out to dinner I'd take a string of pearls. One watch, waterproof. I always wear three gold bracelets on the other wrist. But then I like jewelry ;-)

Your idea is a good one and one I always say after I get home and unpack all the items I didn't come close to wearing.
I'm moody and I like choices. I would do two pants, two Capri pants, two shorts. Seven tops. One pair of walking sandals or shoes, flip flops that are nice enough to go day or night, one other shoe (ballet flat)
Two bathing suits, two cover ups.
Wear one necklace that can be used with all the tops. For my winter trip to Costa Rica, I didn't bother. When I do wear a necklace it's something I wouldn't mind losing.

Funny, the last thing I'd want to do on vacation is bathing suit shopping. It's something I hate to do anyway, but especially when I'm traveling, I like to spend my time doing things I can't do at home.

Linda, thank you so much for that picture of Venice. I really enjoyed seeing it. I'm halfway through reading "City of Falling Angels," which is a little boring, but your photo is inspiring me to keep reading!

I like the packing cubes for undies and socks. When traveling over a period of days, the suitcase seems to get so disorganized and it gets harder and harder to find things. The cubes help one to stay organized. Rolling garments helps get more in the suitcase too.

Lol, Annie, if they're staying at a beach resort there will be plenty of places to find a cute suit--- and better selections, but I agree that bathing suit shopping is stressful. The only thing that could make it worse is having to do it in a mall!

It was not until I actually used the packing cubes that I realized how well they work. You stuff as much as you can into them and they keep things compressed, so it all fits in your bag.

I also,use the eagle creek packing cubes and put all of a certain type clothing in each one, so when I'm looking for a top I'm just looking in that zippered pouch, not pawing thru everything. They also force you to fold better and smaller, and i think that is one ofthe reasons they work so well.

Packing light is always a challenge for me but for 4 days even I could manage with a carry-on. I might even be able to pack in a smaller carry-on than I have altho mine is smaller than regs on some airlines.

When shopping for clothes for travel I look for fabrics that don't take much space. There are so many nice fabric blends now that are crushable and roll up very small. Almost all clothing I've purchased for warm weather in the last few years is made of fine cottons, tencel, bamboo rayon, or blends of any of these. I can pack more outfits in less space by choosing such fabrics. Not necessarily inexpensive but comfortable to wear and easy-care (wash and dry flat). I'm like ellendi in that I need choices so clothing that takes little space is essential. Everything must mix and match.

For travel days I would wear Simon Chang jeans (they don't really look like jeans, are very comfortable, don't wrinkle, and can be dressed up or down), matching jacket, and a shell. I always wear my heaviest/bulkiest shoes on travel days but for a beach trip that would be leather sandals (Clarks) that are comfortable for walking. When traveling I carry a tote with straps that can go over my shoulder and holds a small purse, book, water bottle, sunglasses, crushable sunhat, small cosmetic bag, etc. This tote can also be used as a beach bag and the small purse for evening. I bring only one small bottle of shampoo, conditioner, and moisturizer. I have short hair so use the hotel hair dryer and manage without my curling iron.

I would pack one skirt, 3 pants, 6 tops, 2 sundresses, undies, 2 short nighties, 1 scarf, 2 bathing suits, 1 coverup, 1 pair of dressy flip-flops (can be worn as slippers in the hotel room, at the beach, and in the evening), and ballet flats as an extra as they take little space. I always use clear plastic bags to organize my suitcase (instead of packing cubes) as one can see thru and it's easy to pull out an item without disturbing anything else in the suitcase.

I find it fun to shop for clothes when traveling so often find something new I might even wear on the trip but don't depend on it.

I wear diamond stud earrings so never bring extras. They stay in my ears 24/7 and look good with anything. I'd bring one or 2 statement necklaces for evening and one bracelet.

For shoes...flip flops for the beach, 1 nice white, black or tan sandals for lunches/dinners out, sneakers if you'll be walking alot...maybe ballet flats if you want a closed-toe shoe.

A light sweater or scarf for cooler evenings. 1 jean (if you need them..might be too warm) , 1 nice black pants (dinners), 2-3 capris or shorts....4-5 tops. If need be, you can always do laundry at the hotel or go shoppng there. I like to pack one extra of everything in case of spills, etc..

Jewelry is small and can be tucked in anywhere..but for 4 days I would keep it simple---2 earrings, 2 bracelets, 2 necklaces...if you wear any/all. 1 basic purse.

Use the hotel shampoo/soap, etc..

I roll all my clothes when I pack, can fit a lot in and they don't get as wrinkled.

For the plane, instead of a purse I use a small rolling backpack....in it goes wallet, small makeup bag, magazines or book, "valuables", medications, etc. and I pack the purse I will use at destination. I have found this to be much easier than lugging a large purse or bag around the airport...but I ususally check my other bag..may not be practical if you have a rolling suitcase carry-on.

Have a great trip!

So much great advice! The only thing that I can add is that thing -clothing, bathing suits, beach cover-ups, towels, etc.- do not dry out quickly in Florida like they may do in the North, West or East. If you pack with plans on washing things in your hotel room and wearing them again in the next day, you may be disappointed.
I love the idea of taking just a carry-on. Did that last Spring when I flew in for DD's sorority's Mom's Day Weekend. Be forewarned, though, that your carryon will be heavy. I was grateful when a gentleman offered to put mine up in the overhead bin for me, and I'm pretty darn strong. After, he turned and asked me if I'd packed rocks in it.(LOL)
Lynn

Thank you all for the great suggestions! I just bought a new Delsy carry-on that weighs 5.5 lbs! This is to replace my older carry-on that, while nice, weighs much more.

Space bags are great and I will certainly use them. I am fussy about my toiletries but have a couple of sets of carry-on regulation size bottles.

I love to shop but don't plan on doing that in FL. I have been taking summer clothing out of storage and planning what to bring.

We travel quite a bit, but on longer trips and checking our luggage. This is a challenge I am ready to take on!

My biggest issue now is that I injured my Achilles tendon, and it darn well better heal soon (ha...pun) or I will be a beached whale!

This little break is to take our daughter away to celebrate her 30th birthday. Her live-in boyfriend died 6 weeks ago. She found him dead in their apartment....autopsy pending. Natural causes suspected-no signs of fowl play or drug use. It looks like he took a nap and never woke up. We are all still in a state of shock.

I want this get-away to be relaxing for her and a time to celebrate a milestone birthday. Our biggest problem is keeping DH out of our plans. Poor guy!

Keep the suggestions coming! Thank you for such great ideas! I knew this group would be helpful, as always.

When all is said and done this is for her, but I want it to be as stress-free as possible.

This post was edited by bonnieann925 on Wed, Mar 12, 14 at 18:16

So sorry to hear about this. Your daughter is lucky to have you for her Mom:)

Oh goodness, Bonnie, your poor daughter. She sure does need a trip with Mom! I hope you can relax together.

Wow, what a shock for everyone involved. I'm so sorry. A relaxing get away for you girls sounds perfect. I'm sure you both will find it healing.

Hope your learning experience is beneficial for future trips.

bonnieann, I was reading this thread hoping to pick up a few pointers because I am known to leave less in my closet than in my suitcase even when I travel overnight so I have no suggestions.

I just wanted to say how sorry I am about your daughter's boyfriend. How very tragic.

Ditto Sueb.
We just got back from FLA and it was fabulous to get away from the snow!
I brought bathing suits, cover ups and sundresses, flip flops, sandals & gym shorts, tees and sneaks. Wore sundress, sweater & leggings on the plane and it worked out great.

Thinking of you and your daughter, hope you can enjoy the trip, rest and relax. :)

So many good suggestions! Linda, if you can do 3 weeks in Japan with just a carry-on then I can certainly do this. As suggested I checked the airline regs for carry-ons and my new luggage is well within the limits. I'm thinking of buying a Longchamp large tote for my personal carry-on. Does anyone have one for that purpose?

We will be doing some fine dining so I've shopped my closet for the lightest dressy outfit possible. Annie, thanks for the link. Coordinating outfits is key to packing lightly.

I am trying to find a balance between celebrating DD's 30th birthday yet respecting her (our) grief. Thank you all for your help.

Bonnie, check Baggallini. I use my tote whenever I travel. It has various compartments. I usually put my pocketbook( I take a collapsable sport sac) in one of the compartments. It fits under the seat nicely on the plane.

They still have my tote. It's call the Only Bagg. Looks like it comes in a lot of fun colors.

Bonnie, I have Longchamps totes in several colors in both the small and medium sizes. The large is too big for me, and the medium holds enough for me. When I carry a small size I use it as a purse, not a tote. They are very practical, fold up into nothing, and the colors are great for coordinating with luggage, outfits, etc. I have navy, red, gray and orange, and love all of them. The red seems to have faded a bit, but not the others.

I'm so sorry to hear about your daughter's boyfriend.
This reminds me of a young couple I know.
The husband, age 30, just didn't wake up one morning.
It turned out he had a heart condition; probably had it all his life, but was never diagnosed.
This couple had three little boys.

Have a peaceful trip!

Thank you for the Baggelini suggestion, ellendi. I have found some online, but need to get to the local mall to actually see it. It looks perfect with all the compartments.

Kswl, I also plan on stopping by Nordstrom's to check out the Longchamp. My DD has one that she uses as a handbag on occasion. She loves it.

Mel, DD's bf did have some kind of underlying heart condition and was on meds for high blood pressure. We are still waiting for the autopsy results. It won't change the outcome but will allow some sort of understanding of why this happened to a young athlete.

Luggage and totes are a diversion....trivial, but needed, KWIM?
Thank you so much for the suggestions.

A dry run of the packing seems to indicate that this is easily doable with the Delsy carry-on:
2 pair capris-one to wear on plane
1 pair shorts
2 bathing suits and one cover-up + beach hat
2 sandals, 1 canvas shoe (sneakers will be worn on the plane)
1 Jeans jacket (wear on plane)
1 Longchamp tote-on plane
Everything in the top right will be worn/carried on plane
2 skirts and 4 tops
1 scarf
1 cross-body bag
(also included are the obvious undergarmets). Everything is black, white or red. Easy to coordinate.
While the weather here is predicting a N'oreaster, DD and I will be lounging on the beach in FL (pray to God that we get out of Logan on Wednesday).
Wish us luck!

Excellent! Looks like it all plays nicely together. I'm sure you'll have a wonderful and healing time together.

Nice choices! I hope you have a wonderful, relaxing trip, and as for the nor'easter.....surely God knows how much your daughter needs this getaway.

I have my fingers crossed for you for Wed....depending on the track of the storm, it may be rough on your area....we're further west and it looks like we'll miss the brunt of it...