Spring Break Packing List

Packing may seem overwhelming (how many halter tops are too many? do I really need to bring three leather jackets?), but chances are you’re over-thinking it. When it comes to travelling, quality is really better than quality, and less is really more.

Do’s:

• Loose-fitting jeans (ditto, loose-fitting cut-offs): Your favorite short-shorts and skinny jeans that wear like second skin are no match for travelling. Allow yourself some comfort in a relaxed pair of shorts (http://www.abercrombie.com/shop/us/womens-shorts) and jeans (http://www.ae.com/web/browse/product_details.jsp?productId=3437_9200_259…) that makes it much easier to move. By 3:00 p.m. every lady wants out of that tight denim; while a baggier pair lasts all day and night.
• An oh-so convertible maxi dress: Chances are your weeklong getaway is going to be action-packed, leaving you little time to fuss over ensembles. This is where maxi dresses (http://www.freepeople.com/clothes-dresses-day-dresses/boyfriend-maxi/) come in. With sandals and an up-do during the day, a maxi dress is totally appropriate; the second you switch into wedges and let your hair down, viola – you’re ready for whatever the night brings.
• Tank & tube tops: Form-fitting tanks and tube tops (http://www.forever21.com/Product/Category.aspx?br=f21&category=promo-basics) make an outfit appear way more put together than t-shirts do. Plus, they are also better for beating the heat and avoiding the horribly unattractive farmer’s tan. Stock up on a few neutrals, and then pick some neons or floral prints!
• A sun hat: Endless days spent sightseeing and exploring new territory would be complete torture without one of these bad boys. Sunglasses are great for cruising around your hometown, but just don’t get the job done in tropical locations. Instead of an old baseball cap, opt for a more stylish piece like this one (http://store.americanapparel.net/california-floppy-hat_floppyhatc). Moreover, a sun hat will protect your face from the sun’s harmful UV rays – it’s a win-win!
• Dry shampoo: It is a good idea to use dry shampoo regardless of whether you are travelling or not. Using water to wash your mane too often is damaging in a way that your hairdresser can explain much better than I can. But, as much as I hate to admit it, you probably won’t have as much time as you’d like for a wet rinse. Opt for dry shampoo more often than not, and stick to the real thing only 2-3 times a week. Additionally, if your hair is color-treated or receives any other type of special treatment (e.g. perms, blow-outs, etc.) choosing dry shampoo over a wet rinse will give you more bang (no pun intended) for your buck!
• Waterproof mascara: Long, sweaty days and impromptu dips in the pool are mascara’s worst nightmare. Coincidentally, spring break trips are made of these things. Invest in a waterproof mascara to ensure lush lashes all day long.
• Make-up removing wipes: It is still super-important to make sure you are cleansing your face every morning and/or night, but other than that, there is no need to fuss with water and washcloths on vacation. Have pre-moistened make-up removing wipes on hand, and you’re good to go!
• An inexpensive bag: You’ll sleep better each night (if you’re even sleeping at all) knowing your Louis, your Céline or your Birkin is at home safe and sound. It will be hard and you will have some separation anxiety, but that all pales in comparison to the agony of losing track of it or having it stolen. When picking a temporary replacement, look for a tote-style bag (http://www.urbanoutfitters.com/urban/catalog/productdetail.jsp?id=34057042&parentid=W_ACC_BAGS#/) with a few compartments for easy access to your phone, wallet and other necessities.

Do Not’s:

• Body con dresses, stilettos, sequined anything or anything you might wear to a club or a bar at home. Reason: just don’t.
• Flannels, yoga pants, mesh shorts or anything you might wear when having a so-called “lazy day.” Reason: see above.
• Your entire eye shadow and lipstick collections. Bring one or two of each maximum. Travelling isn’t the time to paint on a new face entirely.
• Your entire jewelry collection (especially those heirloom pieces). The only thing scarier than misplacing your precious gems and metals is misplacing your precious gems and metals in Panama City Beach or Cancun. Besides, you won’t have much time or any real reason to be piling on the bracelets and rings each day, so save some room in your suitcase.