Mar 21, 2025
Happy FRI – YAAAAAY! Holly is fresh off La Playa in Cabo and dying to share her travel must-dos and don'ts! Numero uno on her list? How to pack for the perfect vacation. And pack like a pro.
HOT TIP:
Be sure to watch this full episode on our YouTube channel and follow along on Holly’s Pinterest board for EP 240!
Packing for a trip can either be a breeze or a nightmare—depending on how you approach it! In this week’s episode of the *Fashion Crimes Podcast*, Holly Katz shares all her expert tips to help you pack like it's your job and ensure that your vacation starts stress-free and full of fashion do's.
Whether you’re headed to the beach or a weekend getaway, She breaks down the essential wardrobe must-haves and how to streamline your packing process.
With Holly’s advice, you’ll be able to breeze through your packing and be voted 'best dressed' during your well-deserved vacation; even if it's only in your mind. Not mad at you for that.
Download Holly’s exclusive FREE Vacation Packing List here!
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HOLLY’S KEY PACKING AND WARDROBE TIPS:
1. Create a Packing System That Works for You
Having a consistent packing "system" that works for you prevents possibly running around like a crazy person when trying to get your wardrobe for the next week in order.
Travel tote first: Organize your travel bag or tote with your essentials—medicine, jewelry, electronics (like AirPods), and something to read/do on the plane. Extra credit for bringing extra snacks.
2. Invest in a High-Quality Suitcase (Non-negosh)
An excellent, dark-colored, grown-up suitcase is a must-have for any frequent traveler. A suitcase with a hard shell like the AWAY suitcase, for example, is durable, easy to maneuver, and has an extended warranty. It should last you for a lifetime, or pretty close to it.
Whether you’re checking a bag or packing light, make sure your suitcase is sturdy, large enough, and functional for your specific needs.
3. Organize Your Wardrobe by Category
Having your wardrobe well-organized is the key to making the chore of packing easier. Keeping like items together—bras, underwear, workout clothes, and sleepwear, for example, lets you go through each category to make sure you haven't forgotten anything. This organized approach allows you to grab exactly what you need quickly and efficiently.
4. Use Dry Cleaning Poly Bags for Wrinkle-Free Packing
Packing your hanging items in a fabric garment bag is fine but can take up extra room in your suitcase. Dry-cleaning poly bags last forever, take up less room, and are free. Gotta love that.
5. Be Strategic About Shoes
Shoes can take up a lot of valuable real estate in your suitcase, so be selective. Consider the activities you’ll be doing—walking, hiking, lounging—and choose your shoes accordingly, not overcrowding your suitcase with shoes you might or might not wear.
Packing in shoe bags helps prevent your shoes from getting your clothes dirty.
6. Rolling vs. Folding
Holly has mastered the art of rolling clothes to save space and prevent wrinkles. She recommends rolling everything from t-shirts to workout clothes to maximize space and keep your wardrobe neat.
Pro Tip:
Roll up your socks/underwear and smaller items to stuff IN your shoes to provide maximum space for your actual clothes.
7. Prepare for the Unexpected
No matter how well you pack, things don’t always go according to plan. By bringing one or two extra outfits juusst in case something goes wrong or awry, you're totally covered.
8. Use a Vacation Packing List
For easy, organized packing, Holly has created a Pinterest board filled with some examples of vacation must-have essentials. It’s a helpful guide to ensure that you don’t forget any of the basics.
PRO TIP: Feel free to print off your FREE vacay packing list on your Pinterest board here!
Going through your daily activities and mentally selecting your outfits based on your itinerary/activities is the way to go. Hence the vacay packing list above.
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Conclusion: How to Be the Best Vacation Packer
Being an efficient packer is all about prep and organization. With the right mindset and a well-organized approach, you can avoid stress and ensure that you have everything you need and nothing you don't.
From the FREE vacay packing list to choosing the perfect suitcase, Holly’s tips will guide you every step of the way.
To pack like a pro, we've got you covered.
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Be sure to check out the *Vacation Wardrobe Must-Have Pinterest Board* for a complete packing guide!
And don't forget to watch this full episode on YouTube! And while you're at it, don't forget to subscribe to our channel.
Please consider rating and reviewing us on Apple Podcasts, and engage with us on social media for more style tips and packing wisdom.
Bon Voyage!!!