Like E., a couple weekends ago, I am headed to an academic conference where I will present a paper, participate in a roundtable, meet with editors, and network with other scholars. However, I am traveling internationally and will be gone a bit longer so my spread is a bit bigger and the plan a bit more complicated! In addition to packing for more days, I have a few essential items that unfortunately take up a bit of room – namely my running shoes and blow-dryer and straightener. While I too prefer not to check bags whenever possible, I’m not going to attempt it for this trip. So, in addition to carefully packing my checked luggage, I have taken a few precautions in packing my carry-on bag.
The Preliminary Carry-On Spread (I tend to throw many a thing in at the last minute):
The Carry-on, originally uploaded by academichic.Yes, that is my straightener! I seriously would be devastated if it didn’t make it. I’ve also packed: face wipes- so I can do a quick refresh after the overnight flight; makeup and hair product- all other toiletries can be easily and cheaply replaced; and an emergency outfit plan (see below).
Now on to the real stuff!
The Spread:
- Black Jersey Dress – BR Outlet
- Grey Jersey Dress – BR Outlet
- Pin Striped Skirt – J Crew
- Skinny Jeans – Gap Outlet
- Dress Pants – BR
- Long Beige Cardigan- BR
- Long Grey Cardigan – BR Outlet
- Pin Striped Blazer – J Crew
- Cap Sleeve Black Blazer – F21
- Coral Cardigan – Gap
- Purple Cardigan – Gap Outlet
- Purple Tee – H & M
- Green Sweater – BR
- 2 White Sleeveless Blouses – Gap
- Green Tee – Old Navy
- Black Tee – Macys
- Brown Boots – BR, via ebay
- Beige Wedges – Gap Outlet
- 5 Camis – Various
- Running Clothes – Various
- Running Shoes -Saucony (not pictured)
- Underwear, socks, spanks (not pictured)
The Plan (including back up plans):
Traveling:
Traveling, originally uploaded by academichic.I find jersey dresses to be the ultimate travel garment. I feel put together but comfy and this is essential for an international flight. The soft loose jersey feels a bit like a night gown – perfect for the overnight flight – but with a cardigan, belt, and boots I can walk around town looking like a human being despite my jet lag. I plan to wear the same thing on the way home with a different cami.
Informal meeting at the bar and exploring the city:
Around Town, originally uploaded by academichic.I will reuse the grey cardigan and boots (neither of which will have taken up any space in my bag) paired with jeans and a few layers for the potentially dreary English weather.
First day of the conference and a roundtable discussion:
Roundtable, originally uploaded by academichic.I’m feeling very confident about this ensemble – its professional and polished but playful and memorable. If my academic ramblings fail, this pop of coral will keep things lively.
Second day of conference, my presentation, and second half of roundtable:
Presentation Look, originally uploaded by academichic.I love the way the color of this silk blouse picks of the pinstripes in the skirt. The cardigan will dress it down making it more appropriate for day. I think it is the most polished look I am packing but I hope the lace and lovely lavender will also help me stand out a bit.
Now, just in case I observe a much less dressy crowd on the first day, I have this alternative:
Presentation Back Up, originally uploaded by academichic.Exploring the city and museum hopping:
Museum Hopping, originally uploaded by academichic.I’ve said it before, I’ll say it again: you just can’t go wrong with a jersey dress and riding boots!
Emergency Plan:
Emergency Plan, originally uploaded by academichic.Like I said, I’m checking my main bag, so just in case my bag doesn’t make it with me I’m tossing a cardigan, cami, and my wedges (and an a pair of underwear) in my carry-on to pair with the black jersey dress I am traveling in. This is by no means an ideal ensemble for a conference but it will suffice if need be.
The Extras:
The Extras, originally uploaded by academichic.I am an over packer by nature – there is a bit of extra room in the bag and I can’t help myself! The blazer can quickly make a new conference-worthy ensemble with the pieces I have already packed. The teal cami will allow for some more exciting color play if the mood strikes me. I don’t like to travel anywhere with out a least one green item packed. And, you never know when you will need to belt something!
Important Packing Update:
Packing Update!, originally uploaded by academichic.These fabulous shoes arrived in the mail just in time to make it into the bag! Thanks solestruck!
I’ll be taking lots of pictures while I am away and will report back soon!
Packed!, originally uploaded by academichic.
looks as if you’re ready for anything — enjoy the conferencd!
You look organized and ready to go! Just don’t forget to leave room in your bag for shopping. I also tend to fill up the extra space with ‘just in case’ items, but I have come to regret it more than once.
Whoa – super impressive! Have a great time and be safe!
Don’t forget the country-appropriate electrical adapter for your straightener/dryer.
This might help if you’ve not done this before: http://www.travel-images.com/electric-plugs.html
Enjoy!
Thanks everyone! I’ve made it safely to England and checked into the conference. I’ve already pulled out one of those “just in case” items as the weather is much warmer than forecasted – or maybe I’m just overheated by jet lag and running around a new place!
Ellen – I did leave a bit of room for a new item or two. Will of course report any new purchases when I premier them!
Richard – I did bring an adapter and have already touched up the hair! Thanks for the tip.
A
I love all packing posts!!! :)
Hi!
I just wanted to make a comment on bringing a straightener and blow dryer with you overseas. It may be easier to just buy a cheapo set once you’re over there…given that the plugs are different, and the voltage as well. Of course, this depends on where you go. But I lived in Europe for 6 months, and I was initially worried I’d have trouble finding these two items…but my worries were unfounded and I had no problem finding them.
Just a thought! Have a great trip. :)
oops never mind. you’re already there. :)
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