Getting ready for vacation is either chaos and panic, or art brought to automatism. Someone throws everything into a suitcase in the last minutes, someone spends hours composing perfect images, and then still shifts things ten times. The result is often the same: half of the things remain untouched, and the most necessary, of course, remain at home.
But there is a great way that turns packing into an easy and logical task! This is the 5-4-3-2-1 method. It helps to pack everything you need so that you don't have to carry extra luggage with you and not get nervous at the airport trying to stuff your suitcase into the carry-on calibrator.
How does the 5-4-3-2-1 method work?
It's simple: these numbers indicate the number of things that are worth taking with you.
- 5 tops – T-shirts, shirts, blouses, that is, what is worn most often,
- 4 pairs of trousers, skirts or shorts – the bottom should be versatile to match the top,
- 3 pairs of shoes – comfortable for walking, more elegant for the evening and, if necessary, beach or sports,
- 2 dresses or alternative items (e.g. jumpsuits),
- 1 set of accessories - jewelry, hat, sunglasses.
The method adapts to the weather and travel style. If it's a beach holiday, you can take pareos and swimsuits instead of trousers, and if it's a trip to a cold country, it's better to pack a warm jacket and scarf instead of dresses. The main thing is to preserve the very principle of balance of things.
Why does this method work?
The 5-4-3-2-1 method is based on the idea of a capsule wardrobe: all things should be combined with each other so that a small number of clothes can be matched with a maximum of looks.
Imagine: you have 5 tops and 4 bottoms. Only from these things you can make 20 combinations! If you add three types of shoes and two dresses, then there will be even more variations. Now think about it: how many days does your vacation last? Even if two weeks - 60 combinations, you clearly do not need it.
How not to make a mistake when packing?
- Think within the same color scheme. Basic shades that are easy to mix with each other are the best solution. A white T-shirt, beige pants, and a black skirt will create more options than things with different prints that are difficult to match.
- Choose comfortable fabrics: clothes that wrinkle, require dancing with a tambourine and dry cleaning, take up a lot of space or quickly lose their appearance will only add trouble.
- Do not take things "just in case": it is definitely better to leave the third swimsuit or heels that you will not wear in the end at home.
This method has long been loved by bloggers and travelers, because it relieves you of painful thoughts and helps to save space. Try it on your next trip and you'll be surprised how easy it is to travel!
