Building a capsule wardrobe is a great way to make sure you’re packing light when you head off to explore all the natural beauty Australia has to offer. It’s also a more sustainable way to travel as you’re less likely to buy cheap, synthetic garments on the road because you were ill-prepared.
At Bluey Merino, we are proudly Australian-made and owned, making ultra-light, and super sustainable active and outdoor apparel. Ideal for travelling, being active or just going about everyday activities– Bluey Merino is clothing made for the natural world.
We have put together 7 hacks on how to pack light when you travel, so you stay insanely (and sustainably) comfortable in the great outdoors.
7 Hacks to Build Your Capsule Wardrobe and Travel Light
#1 Only Pack the Essentials
Instead of packing for every possible outcome, we recommend sticking to the essentials. Garments like a basic t-shirt to get you through each day, a warm, long-sleeved base layer and a jacket to protect from the elements are ideal for whatever the weather throws at you. And remember, if you don’t naturally reach for it at home, you probably won’t want to wear it while you travel.
#2 Layers, Layers, Layers
If you are visiting colder climates, choosing to layer warm garments saves you from having to pack large, bulky jumpers and jackets that take up a lot of space in your bag. Layering also helps regulate your body temperature, allowing you to remove or add layers as you go. We think layering (with merino) is the best way to make sure you only pack what you need and wear what you pack!
#3 Have Enough Clothing for One Week
A great way to think about building your capsule wardrobe when it comes to travelling and packing light is ‘What would I wear over the duration of a week?’ Pack no more than seven outfits and choose pieces of clothing that you can mix and mix and wear multiple times. You will be throwing that light backpack over your shoulder and hitting the road in no time!
#4 Choose the Right Fibres
Wearing clothing that is easy to care for and made from breathable, durable fibres is our most important hack when it comes to travelling light. We recommend fibres like cotton, linen and of course 100% Merino wool. The best thing about wool is it keeps you warm in the winter and cool in the summer, it wicks away sweat and doesn’t hold smell! Check out our range of t-shirts, base layers, leggings and our travel dress – perfect for packing light and building your capsule wardrobe for travelling.
#5 Pack Light Shoes
Don’t take your heaviest, bulkiest pair of boots when you travel. If possible, opt for two pairs of lightweight, versatile shoes and wear the bulkier pair when you travel. Don’t forget to throw in a pair of fluffy, breathable merino socks to eliminate odour and keep your feet warm and dry as you travel.
#6 Keep Colours Simple
One of the easiest ways to build a capsule wardrobe and pack light is to consider your colour palette. Consider colours that pair well together so you can create more outfit options with fewer garments. Avoid too many patterns that are difficult to wear with others, but if you do want to incorporate patterns, opt for a bright, printed scarf that is lightweight and won’t take up much space in your bag.
#7 Wear Your Heaviest Items
Sometimes, depending on your destination, packing a large jacket or other bulky items is unavoidable. However, there is a way to get around it! On travel days, wear your bulkiest items to prevent packing them in your bag. This will keep your checked-in luggage cheap, without skimping on the essentials.
We hope this has been helpful as you embark on your next adventure! Don’t forget, when you buy a Bluey, it’s not only keeping you insanely comfortable as you explore the great outdoors, but you’re also supporting local businesses and wool growers committed to ethical production practices. To become part of our flock, you can shop the range here.