How to Pack Light & Right for a Week-Long Stay

Laundry, Just Like Home

All of our villas have like-home amenities, including a washer and dryer, letting you pack less, relax, and wash your clothes whenever you like. And launder items before you depart so they’ll be clean, fresh, and ready to wear when you return home.

Pack Backwards

Start with your bag first, not with clothing and other items. That way, you’ll always have in mind the size and shape of everything you bring. Lay out every item you plan to pack. If you’re not sure you’ll use it, or even if you might wear it only once, you probably don’t need it.

Keep it Simple

Bring basic wardrobe staples that you can wear in multiple situations. Versatility and low-maintenance are key. And bring the colors that “go with everything.” Men, think dark blue jeans, plain, high-quality t-shirts (that can be dressed up or down), unstructured blazer (that folds easily and won’t take up much space). Women, think no more than two good dresses. One if possible. Then dress it up or down with accessories like belts and jewelry for the occasion, whether casual or elegant.

Maximize Every Inch of Space

Think “no air pockets” and store belts, socks and similar small items inside the shoes you’re packing. And speaking of shoes, you don’t really need to bring more than two pairs: a packed pair for dressier activities and a more casual and comfortable pair (the pair you’ll be wearing when traveling). Roll-fold shirts, shorts, and pants. Rolling them up with care will minimize the space each takes up without causing undue wrinkles.

Respect the Tech

Wrinkle-free and synthetic items are your friends. They pack quickly, and unpacking and repacking them won’t cause them to rumple. What’s more, they’re often fairly stain-repellant, (who wants the hassle of wine or food stains in the middle of a perfect day out?) and synthetic threads typically dry quicker than standard cotton.

Think Ahead

If you’re going on a sun-drenched beach vacation or any warmer climate, you’ll by-definition need clothing that’s less bulky, and probably less of it, too. That said, if you’re taking heavier clothing, if possible, actually wear your bulkiest clothing items when flying. If they’re on you, they won’t be taking up space in your luggage.

Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff

Don’t bring toiletries that you could easily buy at your destination. Also, no need to pack fluffy (bulky) towels that will already be waiting for you in your villa. And leave the travel guidebooks at home on the shelf. You can look up most things on your phone when you need to. Or better yet, let your knowledgeable Concierge help you out with tips and planning vacation activities.