Sure, I can power lift a 45 pound bag over my head into the luggage bin. Traveling light has never  been a problem, however last year when I went to Scotland, I packed as if I were going on a month-long expedition to the Himalayas. Idiot!  This year I’m using simple packing tips for Scotland and solemnly swear to pack smarter.

• Start with light weight luggage. A great example of light weight luggage is this Samsonite roller which  weighs in at about 6 pounds.  The Vera Bradley weekender bag is also light weight and has a convenient strap to fit over a luggage handle which allows for easy maneuvering. You can hardly beat Vera Bradley for its practicality and inexpensive price tag. Think about letting your bags do the work and save your back.

 

 

 

• Wear comfortable clothes. On travel days I wear leggings and a tunic for marathon flights. Of course, I can be stylish without looking like I’ve been working in the garden.

 

 

• Lay out clothes before packing. By getting a visual of tops, I could switch out different looks. Everything is light weight cotton in coordinating colors, that can be layered depending on the weather. Luckily, everything goes with jeans which go just about anywhere. Jeans can be dress up or down with the right top, shoes, accessories and attitude. 😉

 

 

• Pack the right shoes for walking. Sorel short booties are great for walking, look fashionable with jeans and leggings, but best of all they are water proof. Oh yeah, I’m talking comfort and on rainy days in Scotland, that’s a big plus.

 

 

 

• No matter what kind of boots or athletic shoes you choose to wear for walking, invest in good quality socks. Feetures are my favorite because they fit snug on my feet,  prevent blisters and keep my feet dry all day while walking or hiking.

 

 

• Don’t forget the right outerwear. The Mac is a must in Scotland. I also packed a light weight polar fleece and a denim jacket,  which should be more than enough. Two pairs of jeans this time? I can do this!

 

 

• Pack a few things for convenience, such as tissues, an adapter, snacks, and hand-wipes. A journal is a great idea to record interesting places, restaurants, and special dishes or cocktails. I could throw in more items but the goal is to pack light.

 

 

 

• Packing a power charger is a good precaution; helps to avoid that feeling of impending doom when the cell phone is about to run out of battery. There are lots of these on the market, this one is made by Beare.

 

 

• Find the right concept for packing. The small space bags work best for me especially for items I’m not concerned about getting wrinkled and dirty clothes. As far as rolling vs. folding: I do both so I can efficiently use all the space I have in my luggage.

 

 

• Decide on the right style of handbag or backpack for your needs. No matter what I’m wearing, I feel as if I could be “trending now”, with my Kate Spade backpack.  The durable nylon in black goes with everything, has comfortable straps and is light weight. The roomy interior efficiently holds my camera, umbrella, wallet and any other lifesaving necessities I might need in a single day.

 

 

Keep it simple and you will have a great trip.  Off for another adventure to Scotland…

Cheers!