HOW TO: pack to perfection

(the fail-proof packing formula)

Countdown to the weekend away instead of dreading the last minute chore of stuffing your bag full of random items. You’re half way there if you can count from three backwards! My fail-proof '3-2-1' method will equip you with up to six outfits from just six items. Try this over the Queen’s Birthday long weekend.

The rules: when packing think about the activities you will be doing. No doubt you'll need casual wear and evening outfits. The formula is always: 3 tops, 2 bottoms and 1 piece of outer wear (cardigan, jacket or coat). You can apply this formula to packing for work travel too. Lastly, don't forget your accessories. Apply the same formula: 3-2-1.

Take this for example (Winter mode): Long weekend down the South Coast of Australia (3 nights / 4 days):

CASUAL WEAR

3 tops (a white T, striped long T and a jumper)

2 bottoms (a pair of jeans and a fitted black skirt with a kick flare)

1 piece of outer wear (long cardigan)

ACCESSORIES

3 shoes (a pair of white trainers, pink slides and snakeskin espadrilles)

2 bags (a day bag for market finds and a small evening bag)

1 scarf (a printed silk scarf)

Just add toiletries, device chargers, plus a book and magazines and you're off!

P.S. I'll be posting my '3-2-1' packing hack for a week in L.A and a working weekend in Wellington soon, so you can see how to master the same formula over a longer travel period.