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Packing Tips from the Pros: Lauren Yakiwchuk

( travel light )

Packing Tips from the Pros: Lauren Yakiwchuk

Lauren is from Toronto, Canada and runs a travel blog called Justin Plus Lauren. Most of the time, she travels with her boyfriend, Justin, hence, the name of the blog. She is a travel fanatic and also travels with family, friends, and sometimes even solo.

Lauren blogs about urban and outdoor adventures around the world. Her articles also focus on nature, eco-friendly travel, and ways to enjoy wildlife in responsible ways. She also follows a vegan diet, so she’s always on the search for the best plant-based meals no matter where she goes. She loves coffee, knitting, and reading. Justin and Lauren share their home with two adorable rescued cats, Chickpea and Peanut. When Lauren is not travelling, she works as a video editor in the media industry.

She tries to pack as lightly as possible, although she does tend to bring a checked bag when she travels. Justin and her carry lots of camera gear with them for photography and videography, so they travel with both carry-on bags and checked luggage.

In this interview, Lilliane will share a few packing tips so let’s get started, shall we?

What's usually in your carry-on?

I usually bring my camera, phone, a journal, an adult colouring book, and lots of snacks. You can never have too many snacks.

Tell us about the usual type of clothes you bring when travelling? Do you pick your wardrobe meticulously, plan a day by day outfit, etc.?

I try to pack as simply as possible, so everything matches and can be worn a couple of times. I like to bring black leggings that match shirts and sweaters. I bring one comfortable pair of shoes for walking all over the place as I love exploring new places.

What's the best packing tip anyone has given you? Who gave it?

I've read so many packing tips online. This one might sound simple, but I love rolling up my clothes. They tend not to wrinkle too much, and it saves a lot of space.

What is the best thing about packing light/heavy?

Packing light saves you money, and you don't have to lug a bunch of things around that you don't need. Packing heavy ensures that you have everything that you need. I think it's good to strike a balance. Leave out a bunch of things that you originally lay out to pack. I find that I always bring too much clothing.

How does your packing for a travel routine look like?

I always pack the day before the flight. I would never leave it until the last second as you never know what last minute preparations you might need to make. I always make a packing list in advance. This way, I won't forget to bring anything.

How do you deal with "excess baggage" situations? Do you pay extra? Lessen your load?

I've never had to pay the excess baggage fee. I bring a portable luggage scale along with me, and I've always found a way to stay within the limits. A long time ago, my luggage was overweight, and I had to shift things around at the airport. Never again!

What's your best-kept packing secret?

I'm not sure that I have any secrets. It's more just common sense things. Shoes weigh the most, so don't bring too many different pairs of shoes. Leave extra room in your suitcase in case you buy anything that you'd like to bring back.

 

Quick Q's

  • Favourite region? Cinque Terre, Italy
  • Favourite country? Iceland
  • Favourite city? Venice
  • Favourite beach? Bloody Bay Beach in Negril, Jamaica
  • Favourite food? Vegan pizza or chocolate
  • Favourite mode of transport? (Land, water, air, etc.) Boat
  • Favourite book? 1Q84 by Haruki Murakami
  • Window or aisle seat? Window
  • Carry-on or check-in? Check-in
  • Hostel or hotel? Hotel
  • What's your favourite design from the Cabin Zero collection? Military backpack

Follow Lauren’s travel blog for more travels and pro packing tips! You can also find her on Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram and Youtube.

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