What's in your suitcase?

Image source: Awards Daily

Those who have seen George Clooney's “Up in the air” will be familiar with the storyline.

In the film, Clooney plays the charismatic Ryan Bingham, who travels a more than 320 days a year for his job, flying from one city to another. He has perfected the art of packing a carry-on bag, breezing through airport security, and collecting membership points with the ultimate goal of hitting 10 million miles.

Expats who have moved abroad for work might find themselves flying frequently, be it to and from home for weekend breaks (if the distance is not too far) or making short trips to other countries for meetings and conferences. Whatever the reason, having one carry-on bag can shave off hours at check-in and waiting at the luggage carousel, allowing you to sail through airport lines and reach your destination.

So what should you pack? We came across this interesting article on the FT, suggesting that the best way to have a range of outfits for various occasions fit in one carry-on is to get the basics right.

“Packing a wardrobe that will produce the most versatile arrangements is the trick,” says one New York fashion designer.

To help business travelers pack the right amount for short trips, we’ve compiled some essentials for every suitcase, both for the ladies and the gents.

For Men

The FT article suggests that for male business travellers, you typically would want a medium-to-dark grey, three-button, single-breasted suit and a navy or black blazer and a pair of jeans thrown in the mix to have a smart outfit, a smart casual outfit and a more casual outfit for evenings.

A stylish, but fun t-shirt can help tone down an outfit for more informal events. The article also suggests that taking one pair of black loafers will suffice as they go with everything from jeans to a smart suit.

For Women

For the ladies, a little black dress never fails to impress in the day time when teamed with a smart blazer for meetings, which can be easily transformed into evening attire if you get the accessories right. A simple necklace and pair of earrings can add instant glamour to any outfit. Get the necklace right and it can double-up as a belt for day time outfits.

A well-fitted shirt or blouse with the blazer adds another variation to the work wardrobe, along with a pair of smart trousers.

Shoes can be tricky but two pairs are more than enough to survive a three or four day business trip- a pair a trusted heels, black and pointed never goes out of style and comfortable flats can see you through the day and night.

  Image source: Creative Commons/ BiggerPictureImages

A pashmina, in light and neutral tones and a more colourful work dress can add further combinations to smart, casual, smart casual occasions. Think pashmina+ dress, blazer + dress, shirt over dress + belt... The combinations are endless!

With the right pieces of clothing packed in your carry-on, the variations can see you through any trip you make, George Clooney style.