I'm packing my suitcase and taking with me... 7 tips for smart packing

We're in the middle of the most wonderful time of the year: Hello summer! The days are hot, the nights are long, and there are so many beautiful places to discover. I love to travel, but packing a suitcase isn't exactly my passion. Whether it's a spontaneous weekend trip to the beach or a longer trip is already planned, outfits, cosmetics, a sun hat, matching bags, shoes, and much more have to fit into the suitcase. And it's often very small.

I learn again and again on our trips to Morocco or Mexico how to get by with minimal luggage. The fuller the suitcase, the fewer nice things are allowed to come home and end up in our shop. If we're honest, even the option of not having anything at all is usually enough, because you don't wear everything in your suitcase anyway.

Over time, I've developed a few tricks for myself that make packing easier. So that you can start your vacation feeling relaxed, I'll tell you what goes into my suitcase.

1. The destination in mind

Before I start packing, I research my destination. It's not just the weather that matters, but also the culture of the country. On a trip to Morocco, for example, you're only allowed to enter religious sites with your knees and shoulders covered. Out of respect for the culture, I avoid short shorts and miniskirts. If you're planning a trip to the desert, it can get very cold in the evenings—you should be prepared for that.

2. Basics are worth their weight in gold

Basics are the heroes of any travel wardrobe. They're quick to throw on, easy to combine, and comfortable. When choosing my basics, I look for high-quality materials like cotton, cupro, or lyocell. These fabrics are pleasant on the skin and still look good even after repeated wear. My basics are usually plain, and in summer I particularly like white and light pastels. My suitcase is full of uncomplicated items of clothing. These are usually plain T-shirts, a sweatshirt, a cardigan, a light jacket, or my new favorite openwork leather coat. I also pack skirts, culottes, and shorts that are easy to pair with the tops. Dresses are a must, of course. I prefer styles that you can just throw on and wear while you're still dressed.

3. Favorite pieces in bright colors & patterns

While basics make packing easier, favorite pieces in bright colors and with exciting patterns are a must. They always put a smile on my face. I like to pack colorful caftans or embroidered dresses and blouses because they're wonderfully uncomplicated and simply beautiful!

4. The CAPE - the perfect travel companion

Our CAPE always belongs in my suitcase and is my favorite travel companion.

I spent a long time searching for the perfect piece of travel clothing, and that's how the CAPE came about. This hand-painted basic accessory is lightweight, uncomplicated, and can be combined to create new looks time and time again. Worn as a cape, it makes every outfit special; it protects against cold breezes as a scarf, and it always looks great on the beach—whether you tie it as a dress or use it as a beach towel. The CAPE is a great travel companion, and mine is already looking forward to many new destinations.

5. Comfortable shoes make life easier

The foundation for a relaxing vacation is having the right shoes in your luggage. I've learned that looking good is pointless if you can't walk and have to treat your feet the next day. So, the high heels stay at home. I always pack a pair of sneakers: my ugly sneakers for city trips, and fabric Supergas are my favorite companions for beach vacations. I also pack a pair of espadrilles, a pair of leather sandals, and if I can fit them in my suitcase, sometimes a pair of wedges made of natural materials. That's it.

6. Accessories are my highlights

I pack only a few accessories and make sure they complement my outfits and add a highlight. My suitcase contains:
A pair of earrings and a necklace that I like to wear in the evening and that instantly add a bit more excitement to any outfit. A sun hat – it not only protects against too much sun, but is the icing on the cake for summer looks. A small shoulder bag for day and evening, and a beach bag made of raffia or jute that folds up quickly and easily. My suitcase also contains our hand-woven, brightly patterned belt because it can be combined again and again with plain looks and adds a special touch to simple outfits. Our Neon Nassima scarf or Habiba hammam towel are always with us because they are the perfect travel accessories that take up little space in your suitcase but offer countless possibilities.

7. Beauty & care products in travel sizes

I save space in my suitcase by pouring my favorite skincare products like shampoo, body lotion, and the like into small bottles, which are available at any drugstore. Perfume atomizers are also handy; you don't have to pack the whole bottle and can even take two scents with you ;) I keep my makeup very minimal on vacation, so I only pack a little. A powder with shimmer particles (my favorite is Mineralize Skinfinish, Soft&Gentle by MAC), an eyeshadow gel with gold particles, mascara, and a red lipstick are enough for me.

Small checklist: Preparation is everything

Choosing the perfect companion
I own both the Horizn carry-on trolley and the large suitcase, and I love traveling with them. In the lovely mint color, they not only look great, but thanks to the integrated batteries, they always provide me with power, no matter where I am. Horizn's slogan hits the nail on the head: Smart travel luggage for urban nomads.

Use stylebook
One of my favorite tools for organizing outfits is Stylebook. I use the app to photograph and save many of my clothes and create many outfit combinations. There are dedicated packing lists where I can add my looks, and it then shows me all the items I need to pack. Give it a try; I think it's worth it ;) Alternatively, you can also quickly photograph the looks beforehand to create your own visual list.

Create a list to check off
No packing without a list! For all the things you need to remember just before departure.

Pack your suitcase twice
I've recently gotten into the habit of packing my suitcase twice. The first time, I pack more than necessary; the second time, I focus on the essentials, and that way, I definitely end up packing less.

SOS
Always with you: Mini detergent for stains and other items, blister plasters for emergencies

Take a notebook, pens, etc.
A notebook always travels with me. I use it to collect my best memories, business cards from beautiful places, and much more. So I can indulge my wanderlust a little when I get home.

I hope I was able to make packing your suitcase a little easier with my tips and tricks ;) Where are you going on your travels and what should never be missing from your suitcase?