I had become a pro at packing but since I’ve not been away since March 2020, it was definitely a struggle to remember all my packing tips and tricks! However, sometimes you just have a knack for something and packing seems to be my thing. I’ll be doing a series of these posts before every trip I take, whether it’s a week long or just one night. First up is how to pack for a trip to the Peak District. Buckle in because it’s a long one on The Realistic Minimalist blog today!
Pre-packing thoughts
I know I’m strange but I actually enjoy packing and unpacking, both when I get to my destination and when I get home. As you may know, I only go on holidays in the UK. I go back to a couple of the same places but definitely want to try exploring different places so if any train companies want to fund my one-woman excursions (or at least reduce their prices), that would be great.
Since starting my capsule wardrobe journey, I’ve really tried to choose pieces that I love. It also makes it much easier when packing for a trip because I know that most of my wardrobe goes together. Sure, I have some that don’t (striped top with polka-dot trousers isn’t a great look) but I still maintain that any top must go with at least three pairs of trousers. Looking at how to pack for a trip to the Peak District starts now!
Trip details
Destination: Peak District
Trip length: 5 days, 4 nights (Monday-Friday)
Weather: warm some days, strong chance of rain on a couple of days
Activities: Days out in various towns, lots of walking around, a couple of evening meals
My approach to packing for this trip
Before I get into how to pack for a trip to the Peak District, I first think about my approach. My style is simple and practical with a little bit of pretty or edgy. Take a look in my wardrobe and you’ll see similar items: comfy shoes, striped T-shirts, jeans or jogger trousers.
Unfortunately in this country, you have to pack for all four seasons if you’re going away for more than one night (and that’s even a push sometimes).
- Lots of walking = comfy shoes that I’ve worn a hundred times and that don’t give me blisters
- Chance of sun = shoes, sandals and a couple of vest tops
- Chance of rain = waterproof jacket, darker colours, shoes that can get wet
- Layers = pack for all weathers but pray that it stays dry and warm-ish!
I do this prep beforehand so I don’t overpack. I’ve stripped back my toiletries and make-up bag so I only need a smaller case to fit everything in. I always wear my thickest and bulkiest clothes to travel in so I can take a smaller case too. Also, I usually take my largest rucksack too as I hate putting my laptop and tech in my suitcase.
The 3×3 formula
What it boils down to is choose 3 colours and choose 3 items of each tops, bottoms and shoes in each of the colours chosen. Obviously, this can vary on the type of trip but sticking to a colour scheme means that everything can mix and match.
I first found this formula on Unfancy and have used it for most trips since (unless they’re just an overnight stay).
For the most part, I will always pick black, blue/denim and stripes; it just depends on the season and destination! I’m not huge on colour or pattern so it works well for me. However, you might choose your three colour choices as green, pink and blue.
I’m not saying you should be restricted to packing just these 9 items. Sometimes it’s too much for a weekend trip and three tops isn’t enough for a week away but it’s a great starting point. The key is to always stick to the colour palette, no matter how many items you pack. You can add in the odd pieces as you go through.
My step-by-step packing process
No matter what the trip, I still use the same process for packing. It’s one that I’ve perfected over the past few years and that always serves me well.
Step 1: Pack toiletries in advance
I try to pack it a couple of days in advance at least so I’m not rushing at the last minute. I have lots of minis that I collect at Christmas in gift sets so now is the best time to use them!
Step 2: Gather ‘other’ items
We’re talking underwear, socks, tights, pyjamas, workout gear, loungewear etc. I tend to stick to beige and black underwear on trips because I know they’ll go under anything. One thing I always pack are ‘comfy’ clothing: a pair of shorts or joggers and a spare T-shirt. I hate sitting around hotels or apartments in jeans so need comfort items! You can definitely overpack in this area but just get out what you think you’ll need. And no, 1000 pairs of knickers is a no, you will not wet yourself.
Step 3: Gather shoes and bags
I find choosing footwear can either be the most difficult part of the process or the easiest. It usually depends on location. My overall rule is be practical. If you don’t wear heels like me, you probably won’t wear them when you’re away either. My rule of thumb is usually pack a pair of comfy trainers that you can walk around all day in and some dressier shoes for an evening. Whether they’re ballet flats, sandals or heels is up to you. The third pair usual depends on the time of year. Autumn/winter usually means boots, spring/summer means you might be able to get away with a pair of pumps. With your bag, I find you only need two for most trips: a larger daytime bag (a rucksack is best) and a smaller, evening bag. Choose neutral colours for both so they’ll go with everything.
Step 4: Gather specific items for this trip
If you’re going for a specific occasion, such as a wedding, party or hiking, grab those items first. Make sure you don’t forget your accessories either. This is the area that is the most important usually so pack what you definitely need.
Step 5: Add in regular clothes
I do this as the last packing step because these clothes are for everyday wear. Mostly, I select my three pairs of bottoms first and grab tops that match at least two of the pairs of bottoms. Sometimes I’ll plan outfits, sometimes I’ll just grab my favourite pieces. It really just depends on the trip.
Step 6: Edit and fine-tune
You’ll find that you’ve probably got piles off stuff laid out on your bed. Now is the time to go through and take a few items out. Can you downsize any toiletries and decant anything or just take the bare minimum? Can you handwash a couple of tops in a sink during your trip to save some space?
Step 7: Time to pack!
I’m all about making the most of the space so invested in packing cubes last year. They are a godsend! Folding your items with the KonMari method and it fits so much more in. However, I always end up buying something new on a trip so I have to leave some space for that. Try stuffing your underwear and socks into your shoes. Make sure your shoes go in first, followed by heavier items. Anything that creases easily should be at the top along with anything that needs unpacking straight away (toiletries for me).
Another top tip is to outfit plan before you travel. Try on your items, style them into outfits and snap pics. Include any accessories too and you’ll save tonnes of time when you get to your destination. You’ll already know which items make a cute outfit and you can always switch it up with accessories or shoes. This is a step I tend to skip because all of my clothes tend to mix and match well!
Still with me? That’s my ultimate guide for how to pack for a trip to the Peak District. It might seem overwhelming but the more you travel, the easier packing gets! Stay tuned for more travel and packing tips as well as what I packed + wore for my Peak District trip when I get back. If you want to pack with me, follow me on Instagram where I’ll be doing this process in my Stories over the weekend!
