If you've never heard of the 5-4-3-2-1 packing method, you don't watch packing YouTube videos as much as I do, which is too much. This method was posted by a blogger back in 2015. Geneva Vanderzeil of Collective Gen created the method to create a simple and effective capsule wardrobe that fits in a single carry-on. In her initial post, the capsule was created for a 10-day trip to Greece. However, many travel bloggers, YouTube personnel, etc., have shown that the method can be used for longer trips. Generally, it creates enough outfits for a week and change, and if you are willing to do laundry, it'll last much longer. Also, this method creates a capsule wardrobe, so as long as you select different pieces that go together, you can create more than 10 unique outfits.
This is how the original method breaks down:
- 5 tops
- 4 bottoms
- 3 dresses or rompers & 3 pairs of shoes
- 2 swimsuits & 2 bags
- 1 hat, 1 watch, 1 pair of sunglasses
- Unlimited underwear, socks, and jewelry
As I mentioned, many other bloggers and internet persons have adjusted this method for different locations/weather, or preferences. An easy swap here is to switch out the seasonal items (i.e. swimsuits) for the correct seasonal item based on your trip, a knit hat and scarf for a winter trip, or activewear for a hiking-heavy itinerary. Generally, since the method is based on size/volume, when switching items, it is more important to switch by item size rather than quantity.
I have adjusted this 5-4-3-2-1 method to better align with my personal preferences. For instance, I don't wear many dresses or rompers and prefer to pack fewer shoes. My personal breakdown of this method is as follows:
- 5 tops
- 4 bottoms
- 3 layers (jackets, flannel shirts, etc)
- 2 shoes
- 1 bag
This is also just a general guideline subject to change based on my itinerary. With this paired-down capsule, everything fits on one side of my suitcase. This allows ample space for additional clothes, which I use as loungewear and pajamas in my hotel room. It also means there is extra space for special occasions, i.e. if I am going to a wedding there is room for a dress and an extra pair of shoes. As I continue to write about my travels, I will include my packing list and what luggage I bring. I will continue to adapt this method to become an expert packer myself.
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