Dear Betty: Packing for any time away makes your suitcase your closet for your entire stay. The clothing you take needs to fit you, feel comfortable and be appropriate for all your activities. Therefore your agenda will be a huge determining factor in your decision of what items to pack.
To guide you more specifically, I called 1-888-PortHope and inquired about the lifestyle in Port Hope. Port Hope definitely has a relaxed atmosphere so unless your plans include a special dress up event, plan to take comfortable smartly casual clothes and you will be fine.
Regardless of where you travel it is important to plan for unpredictable weather. Ontario’s spring weather is erratic so definitely be prepared. Take a light weight warm jacket. Pack a small umbrella. Wear your heaviest bulkiest clothes and shoes, pack the rest.
As to what to pack, lay out your clothes so that you can coordinate your outfits as needed for your scheduled events. Preferably select clothing in soft fabrics such as jerseys and crinkle cottons which roll easily, compress into a small suitcase and emerge without creases.
Decide on a colour capsule and stay within your set parameters. Start with a column of your basic neutral colour. It can be black, navy, brown, safari khaki, grey etc. Once you have established a basic line of colour, plan to add a third piece, ideally a jacket or cardigan in the same colour. From these three basics you can build total looks by simply inserting accent coloured tops to the jacket and bottom combination or using contrasting jackets, skirts or cardigans over your column of colour.
Accessories give big return for the little space they take in your suitcase. Scarves, shawls, necklaces, and earrings will tie colours together and spice up your combinations. Eight pieces of clothing can give you 24 changes. These will easily give you enough options to cover your every need and more while you are away.
Don’t forget to take underwear, socks, sleepwear, flip flops for slippers, personal grooming items in small containers (sample sizes work great) and sandals or shoes if you travel in runners. Be sure to include items you require for your personal well being and comfort such as medication, a spare pair of glasses, sun protection etc. Pack your bag with the heaviest items on the bottom. Keep items you may need to access before you unpack fully on top.
Where ever you go, for however long a time it is always best to know as much as possible about your destination and have and understanding of your activities.
These facts, plus knowing yourself and what works to make you feel and look your best are the recipe for what you need to pack for your time away.
For more detailed packing instructions, visit my web site www.marilyns.ca. Have a safe trip.
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