Winter Travel In A Carry-On - Margo’s Pro Packing Formula
Winter Travel in a Carry-On: Margo’s Proven Packing Formula
Can you really pack for a 15-day winter cruise using only a carry-on suitcase and a backpack?
Yes — and Margo shows exactly how. Returning to Shepherd’s Fashions, she puts her travel-styling savvy to the test with smart fabrics, clever folding, and a foolproof capsule wardrobe built around mix-and-match versatility.
From scuba knits to packable outer layers, Margo’s winter-packing philosophy proves that you don’t need to overpack to feel confident, cozy, and chic.
Start With a Plan: The Winter Capsule Mindset
Before anything goes into the suitcase, Margo focuses on textures, colours, and coordination.
Her winning formula:
• Choose wrinkle-free fabrics like scuba, crepe, and cotton knits.
• Stick to a tight colour palette of black, navy, and dark denim.
• Pack versatile layers that move seamlessly from day to evening.
“I want everything to mix and match — and not need ironing,” she explains.
Her base includes four bottoms (two black pants, one navy, one denim) and a curated mix of tops in complementary tones.
Fold to Fit — Not Just to Tuck
Margo’s golden rule: “Flat is best.”
She folds each piece to match the width of the suitcase rather than traditional retail folds.
Her method:
1. Lay out structured items first — such as scuba pants — to anchor the base.
2. Fold tops wide so seams lie smooth and layers stay level.
3. Stack lighter items last to maintain balance and reduce creasing.
This meticulous method keeps everything compact, crease-free, and easy to find once you arrive.
Rotate & Repeat With Style
When you’re traveling for two weeks or more, laundry access changes everything.
“I’ll rotate my pants — A, B, C — over and over again for 15 days,” says Margo.
By pairing neutral bottoms with complementary tops, you can build dozens of outfit combinations. Her wardrobe is lightweight, coordinated, minimalist and cruise-ready — ideal for sightseeing by day and dining by night.
The Organized Half: Pajamas, Shoes & Warmth
On the second side of her suitcase, Margo packs her comfort zone:
• E-bag: pajamas, slippers, scarves, socks, hosiery, and bathing suit (yes, there’s a covered pool on board!).
• Shoes: one pair of flats and ballet flats for evening, placed heel-to-toe in protective bags.
• Outerwear: a packable puffer jacket stored in a long, slim cube for extra warmth.
• Evening purse: a slim style that holds essentials and that lies flat, adds polish for dinner.
Everything is placed evenly to ensure the suitcase closes smoothly — no bulges, no wrinkles, no stress.
The Backpack: Layers, Extras & Smart Add-Ons
For her travel backpack, Margo opts for a clamshell-opening style from brands like Tay Gearor EcoHub.
Inside, she layers:
• An Ilse Jacobsen waterproof raincoat — her lighter alternative to a heavy winter coat.
• Warm accessories: scarf, knit headband, and visor for sunny or chilly days.
• Scuba popover and dickie — her secret for changing up a look without packing extra tops.
• Statement scarf from Love’s Pure Light — cozy, colourful, and full of personality.
And yes, she even tucks in a small hairbrush, because practicality never goes out of style.
Toiletries & Tiny Helpers
Everything has its place — and a purpose.
Dry toiletries:
Band-aids, medications, nail-polish pads, a sewing kit, and the all-important lint brush for sweater season.
Wet toiletries:
Makeup and gels in a 1-litre clear bag (mascara, concealer, balm, etc.), ready for airport security.
She reorganizes once she arrives, keeping daily essentials at hand and re-packing only on the final day.
In-Flight Comfort: Small Pouch, Big Payoff
Margo’s plane-kit keeps her fresh, comfortable, and connected:
• Earplugs, sleep mask, travel pen, earbuds, and puzzle pages.
• Inflatable neck pillow (so much easier to pack!).
• Tiny soap slice for overnight flights.
• Dual-charging adapter — her favourite gadget for powering her iPad while watching a movie.
It’s everything she needs for long flights without the clutter.
Layering: The Secret Weapon for Winter Packing
Instead of bulky coats, Margo relies on strategic layering:
• Quilted vest
• Raincoat
• Puffer
• Cozy knit
This allows her to adapt to changing weather — from cool mornings on deck to breezy afternoon walks ashore.
“Every day can be different,” she smiles. “I can wear my vest under my raincoat, or over my puffer.”
The Proof: It All Fits
After every fold, cube, and clever tuck — Margo zips up her suitcase with ease.
“I’m packing for a 15-day winter cruise — plus travel days and a hotel night before. It all fits. It works. You can do it.”
Her packing philosophy is equal parts practical and empowering — the Shepherd’s spirit in motion.
Core Wardrobe
• 4 bottoms (2 black, 1 navy, 1 denim)
• 6–7 tops (scuba, crepe, cotton)
• 1 turtleneck, 1 cardigan, 1 cotton long sleeve t-shirt as a base
• Packable puffer or vest
• 2–3 pairs of shoes
Accessories
•. Scarves - one heavier outdoor scarf, small silk squares,
• Crossbody + evening bag
• Jewelry pouch with minimal jewelry (don’t bring your best pieces, they could get lost…bring pieces you won’t mind terribly if you lose or break).
• Hat, headband, tights and gloves
Essentials
• Toiletry kits (dry + wet) select travel sizes
• Travel tech + comfort kit
• Water bottle, pen, earbuds
• Passport, boarding pass, travel documents
The Takeaway: Less Bulk, More Joy
Margo’s approach is proof that winter packing doesn’t have to mean heavy luggage.
By focusing on coordination, comfort, and confidence, you can travel effortlessly — whether it’s a winter cruise, a holiday getaway, or a city escape.
Travel light. Pack smart. And enjoy the journey — Shepherd’s style.