How a celebrity stylist would pack my bag for a 5-day trip

Maria NoyenAug 4, 2022, 15:13 IST

The packed suitcase (left, and Maria Noyen (right).Maria Noyen/Insider

Celebrity stylist Tara Swennen has worked with the likes of Kristen Stewart and Matthew McConaughey.
She critiqued how I plan to pack my bag for an upcoming family vacation.

To bid goodbye to the summer of 2022, I'm set to spend five days in Spain with family in August.

I'm heading to Barcelona, Spain, later in August.Google Maps, Maria Noyen/Insider

Swennen, whose client list includes Kristen Stewart, told Insider that "packing for travel is one of my favorite things to do."

Kristen Stewart attends the photocall for "Crimes Of The Future" during the 75th annual Cannes film festival at Palais des Festivals.Li Yang/China News Service via Getty Images

Swennen's biggest tip? Lay out everything you plan to wear.

I stacked the outfits that I am planning to pack for the five-day vacation.Maria Noyen/Insider

Swennen said she has added a new trick to packing repertoire: a luggage tracker, such as an AirTag.

An Apple AirTag you can use as a luggage tracker.Dave Johnson

Swennen advised to bring along blazers to dress up evening looks.

My two evening dresses.Maria Noyen/Insider

Swennen approved of my decision to bring three types of shoes, though she said I should consider adding a dressier option to go with my evening outfits.

My shoes.Maria Noyen/Insider

Given the hot weather at my upcoming destination, I was skeptical about packing jeans, but Swennen said they are a must-have.

My now-packed jeans, plus some neutrals for the trip.Maria Noyen/Insider

Swennen suggests packing neutrals that allow you to shop for colorful pieces on the trip.

A crop top and tank tops.Maria Noyen/Insider

Somewhat optimistically, I packed clothes for three workouts. Swennen told me that adding these to my suitcase would help me manifest it happening.

I'm bringing three workout outfits.Maria Noyen/Insider

Swennen believes there is one area where it is ok to overpack: underwear.

Pajamas and undergarments.Maria Noyen/Insider

Packing techniques, like folding and bundling, avoid creasing and maximize space, Swennen said.

My packed suitcase.Maria Noyen/Insider

For the journey home, Swennen said there will always be times when a suitcase is a "hot mess" but staying organized is key.

The author in Spain.Maria Noyen/Insider

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