Wyatt and I are taking off for a long weekend skiing in Aspen (I know, so white). Since I’m expecting a full blown snowmageddon up there (they’re getting two feet as I write), I have to pack as if I’m going to a stylistically savvy, posh as fuck arctic tundra. Every time I pack for a trip, I try to be as efficient as possible. Most of the time, I totally fail.

That’s because I am not naturally one of those minimalist people (I’m a Taurus, we like our stuff). But, it is truly one of my missions in life to improve the way I pack because I think it is representative of a simpler, more focused state of mind. Plus, the more shit you have when you travel, the more shit you have to haul around with you. Plus, the more shit you have the more decisions you have to make. Anyways, you get it, less is always more.

I have read countless blogs about how to pack like a minimalist or at least someone who is relatively reasonable. I am almost positive none of them have been written by women. Women just have a lot of extra things that we “need.” I say that jokingly, but also seriously. We just need more shit, I don’t know why, it’s just the way it goes.

But, if you’re like me and want to have your proverbial cake and eat it too when it comes to packing, check out these tips.

Toiletries

I used to pack so many toiletries that I purchased a Patagonia toiletry bag that could fit a newborn baby (not that I’ve tried). Of course, I need to bring a full-sized thing of facial scrub, four different kinds of moisturizers, sunscreen, hand cream, a hundred tampons (just in case), eye make-up remover, cotton swabs, electric toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, shampoo, conditioner and leave-in conditioner.

I wish I could tell you I have found the magic elixir to not packing so many toiletries, but I really haven’t. The only thing I’ve done is cut down on the quantity of each item I brought (ie tampons), bringing travel sized everything and using packing cubes. I know, it’s not rocket science, but packing cubes are a game changer since they compress and organize everything inside my infant sized toiletry case.

Clothing & Underwear

Watching Wyatt pack his clothing is almost more infuriating than watching him pack his (three) toiletries. He literally threw some socks, boxers and pants in a bag and called it a day. FML.

Meanwhile, I’m losing my mind thinking about all of my options and then of course, there’s the underwear that has to go with it all. But, after all was said and done and packed and repacked and packed, I think I kept it simple enough after all.

• Two waffle knit thermals – these are incredible because they’re comfy, warm, but can be dressed up. I recently purchased some at Inspyre Boutique in Denver.
• Cotton Funnelneck LL Bean sweater – so warm, comfy and versatile
• AG Jeans – my favorite pair wears more like sweat pants than jeans
• BNCI Drape Front jacket – my favorite jacket of all time to layer with sweaters and thermals
• Three pairs of Smartwool base layers – fashionable for layering and super warm
• Fabletics high impact sports bra
• Knixwear Evolution casual bra
• Jockey boy shorts – because I’m not 16 anymore
• North Face Heavenly Jacket – the warmest ski coat of all time (also cute)
• Mountain Standard puffy – a Boulder-based company, I highly recommend! This jacket is perfect for more dressy occasions.

Shoes!

Every lady knows how hard it is to be reasonable about the amount of shoes you pack for a trip. I always stress out about how to avoid bringing at least five pairs on every trip. What if it’s cold? Or if it rains? I want to be comfortable, but stylish. What if I want to dress up? What if these give me blisters? All of these stupid thoughts. All the damn time.

This time around…I had all of those thoughts, but ultimately chose well. I successfully only brought three pairs (ski boots don’t count).

• UGG booties – the pair I have are discontinued which sucks because I’m pretty sure they are the only functionally cute shoes UGG has ever made.
• LL Bean Wicked Good Moccs – ’nuff said, am I right? These babies are perfect for après ski chill sessions.
• Korkease booties – for the fancier evenings out, but still incredibly comfortable. I have multiple pairs of this brand bootie and they never fail to amaze me.

Post Trip Packing Reflections

Reflecting on your trip is almost as important as preparing for it. When I return from Aspen, I’ll go through everything I brought versus what I wore and take note. Typically that helps me to decide what to bring next time.

Another tip: don’t watch your boyfriend pack. Ever. It will drive you insane.