New York: what I really packed

I actually love packing. It’s the organisational freak in me. I managed to really pack a capsule wardrobe this trip and wanted to share what I packed.

New York is often quite a tricky destination as it can be unpredictable, much like the UK. It showed rain on our weather app which is always a bit frustrating, as well as difficult to plan for! I have a few tips I follow when packing, which are as follows:

Always check the weather before you go. But pack an umbrella anyway.

Stick to a colour palette, that way everything matches. This time I went for denim, beige, black, white and tan.

Wear your bulkiest items on the plane (but only if they’re comfy!), take extra layers, be it a scarf or a hoodie as it can go from icy to sweaty in the space of a few minutes! I also like to wear elasticated waist joggers which are also chic enough to wear out (these from Wyse London are my favourites, I’ve worn to death over the last year).

Blazers are a great all-scenario jacket – they work with jeans and trousers but equally thrown over your shoulder for the evening.

Take an eco bag (mine is from Mutha.Hood) in your hand luggage: use it to carry your plane essentials for more legroom and for shopping when you get there.

Try and take your own coffee cup and water bottle.

I am generally a folder, not a roller. I know rollers say it’s the best technique but frankly, I have done both and not found either to be significantly better. I do tend to roll items like pyjamas and underwear at the end and squeeze it into the empty gaps and pockets in the case.

If you can, pack shoes in dustbags, it makes for easier packing in general and means those dusty/slimy soles won’t ruin your new blouse.

Muji clear bags for liquids are a lifesaver, I never have to worry about the right sized bags for security (and no more single use plastic).

Invest in a washbag with a waterproof lining, you won’t regret it. I’ve had this Alphabet Bags one for years and love it.

We’ve edited an IGTV talking through all my tips and clothes that I packed for the trip, and you can view it below or on my IGTV channel.

And lastly…always pack by a ‘master list’ in terms of remembering all of those extra little things: plug adapters, serum, hairbrush etc. I tend to have one on my phone, but also use a notepad. And in case anyone is interested, I created a downloadable list which I follow, which you can use as well! The great thing about this list is that I use it for both summer and winter breaks – it’s quite extensive so most of you won’t need to pack everything here (i.e braces!) but I always think it’s better to be thorough and you can skip some tags rather than miss anything!