How I shoved my life into one suitcase & a backpack

The perfect guide to packing abroad: What do you actually need?

From Midwest to Mexico: Whether you are traveling abroad for an extended vacay or moving out of the country... this is your guide to fitting everything into one bag and a backpack.

When I moved myself to Mexico City, I knew this was the most important journey of my life and also a test of my packing ability. I made the decision to pack only one suitcase and a backpack. CRAZY RIGHT? Wrong. Hello, if you are moving by yourself, you most certainly do not want to be in a foreign country wheeling two 50 lb. bags, a carry on and an effing back pack down an unfamiliar street with unfamiliar people.

Find your favorites:

When packing for your journey, pack smart. Create a section of clothing that your know you'll 100% for sure wear. I call this the Hellz Yes pile. In your Hellz Yes pile, are the outfits that make you feel fabulous, comfortable and like yourself. Identify those items from your closet and move them to a particular part of your room. Your Hellz Yes pile will most likely be huge. In two days, cut it in half and repeat once more. Yup, you've got to do it.

Note: research the country you are going to and the fashion. Example: Is it appropriate to wear shorts?

My Tip: I followed a bunch of Instagrammers from Mexico City, so I could get a sense of what the people were wearing. You do not want to be in a country where wearing shorts (or whatever piece of clothing) will give you unwanted attention.

Fun Fact: people in Mexico City legit wear winter coats. It is chilly in the morning and hot during the day. Would I have ever thought that I'd see people in Mexico City wearing winter jackets? No. But, I am happy I did my research to know that infinity scares and winter jackets are common items to wear in Mexico City.

You don't need 9 pairs of shoes.

It's hard to say goodbye to your beloved shoe babies... but you need to be sensible. If your main source of transportation is your feet, you better make sure you are walking in a pair of shoes that feel good. There's nothing worse than 8+ miles in flats that are super cute, but in turn have shredded the back of your heals.

Pack 4 pairs of shoes.

-Walking/work out shoes

-1 pair of sandals or flats

-Hiking shoes (if necessary)

-One pair of "Imma go out and slay the dance floor" shoes

PRO TIP #1: Tie your workout shoes together by the laces, and hang them through your back pack strap - security doesn't care! Score. Now you can pack 5 pair :D

PRO TIP #2: put clothes inside your shoes! More space baby.

To roll or not to roll... That is the question:

There's so much debate over rolling or stacking. However, I am a roller. Packing for my move, I wanted to fit as many items from my Hellz Yes pile as possible, while also being strategic in where I was putting those items. Think, you are traveling to a new country, everything is chaotic and things can go south in a snap... the only thing that will give you some sense of organization, will be knowing exactly where your valuables are in your suitcase. So here are my suggestions for you:

Packing Cubes: Get them.

A packing cube is an organizer sent from the packing gods themselves. You can find sets on a

Amazon or target (tip: they’re cheaper on Amazon).

If you are going to be living out of a suitcase for more than two weeks - I highly recommend purchasing these. Why? You don't have to rip through your suit case for that one top or finding clean undies.

Packing Cube 1:

Underwear and bras only (FYI: I did not roll these)

Note: you can never pack too many pairs of undies… you don't want to do laundry your first week of living abroad.

Packing Cube 2:

Pants, dresses, a few professional tops, rompers

Packing Cube 3:

Casual day time tops + going out shirts

Packing Cube 4:

Everything work out (shirts, tanks, capris, shorts and socks)

Packing Cube 5:

Weather related shit: Rain coats, light jackets, scarves, cardigans and other country dependent items.

Make a list and check it twice

When it comes to packing, you should remember what you came with. Making a list gives you a great visual of what is in your suitcase. My list was not perfect, however I recall almost everything I packed. You don't need to be specific with your descriptions, but knowing what you packed will give you peace-of-mind when you jet set out of the country.

My Tip: Share your list with a friend (a second pair of eyes is extremely helpful).

What about accessories, medical + tech?

This post is just for clothing. COMING SOON: What the bananas should I pack... Your holy grail from accessories to medical and everything in between.

If you aren't following my journey on Instagram, you need to be. From street food to beautiful monuments to honest travel videos... @Eatzandcookzmsp is ya girl.

Also, share your favorite packing tipparoos below in the comment section or yell at me about how my tips suck :P

xo

-Eatz