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How Not to Overpack Clothes for Trips! Stef’s Summer Travel Wardrobe

Jun 28, 2017RV Tech

This post may contain affiliate links.

Choosing clothes for a trip can be tough.  I blame all the unknowns… the weather, the activities, the mood you’ll be in, on and on.  So we default to packing way more than we need “just in case,” and end up wearing only a fraction of it; which means more unnecessary crap we’ll be lugging around, and more laundry to deal with when the vacation is over.

 

Trust me, I speak from experience. During our first few years of RVing, James referred to me as the Queen of 15 Pairs of Shoes.  To combat my tendency to overpack, I’ve actually come up with a system for choosing how many pieces of clothes I’ll take with me when we travel, and I’ve shared it in the video.

Also in the video, I share my entire wardrobe that I plan to take with me on a 10-day vacation, piece by piece.  I’m a very proud brand ambassador for Aventura Clothing (James is an ambassador of their men’s line called “Ecōths”), and all the clothes I modeled are Aventura. Of course my packing system will work with ANY brand; I’m just partial to this one. Aventura is a small family-run company that’s passionate about the environment and uses organic and eco-friendly materials. Plus they’re very philanthropic, which means a lot to me. For every Ecōths garment purchased, a minimum of three meals is provided to someone in need. Aventura donates to survivors of domestic violence as well.

AND! I didn’t say this in the video because I wanted to save this for FitRV readers, but I have a limited number of DISCOUNT CODES for 60% off Aventura or Ecoths!

8/1/2017 UPDATE: I’ve run out of codes, so sorry!

So now here’s the list of clothes I modeled starting with the Valencia dress I was wearing:

Aventura really shines when it comes to dresses, and you can see this season’s entire collection HERE.  Right now this one is my favorite, so a no-brainer choice for this trip.

 

My Road-trip Shirts:

Sheridan Plaid Long Sleeve Shirt: When I wore this the first time, James said this. “That is my most favorite shirt I’ve ever seen you wear.” I am not kidding you. He said that. He NEVER says anything about my clothes…nada! So, I pretty much instantly had a soft spot for this shirt. The one I have has a little purple in it and is called “high rise” on the Aventura website. I wish I owned it in every color. It is so light and extra soft…a great summer long-sleeve option.

 

Poet Tank: Have I mentioned how I try to pick pieces that tend to be more wrinkle-resistant? I don’t want to be wasting my time on the trip ironing, so my wardrobe better darn well be low maintenance. The poet tank most definitely meets that criteria. PLUS! The pattern on it is just so dang cute! Mine is the “high rise” color, but I’ve been coveting the “arabesque” color. If you get that one don’t tell me or I’ll be jealous.

 

Pilar Tank: Mine is in purple, but there are a bunch of colors available. It’s so stinking soft….probably since they blended modal with organic cotton. Hard to go wrong with that combo.

 

Novak Top: Even though the model below is wearing it in blue, mine is dark grey. They call it “black” on the Aventura website, though. Whatever you call it, I LOVE IT! This is the one in the video where I turn and show off the cute braid across the top of the neck. Again the softness is over the top. They took 75% modal and blended it with polyester and the end result is an appealingly understated shirt that doesn’t wrinkle and goes with any bottoms you’ve got.

 

Remi Tank: This was the flowy top I was wearing in white. It’s 100% organic cotton slub jersey… so the uber-soft kind of organic cotton. The crochet details make it such a sweet and romantic top. Bottom line: It makes me feel pretty.

 

 

My Road-trip Bottoms:

Tara Short: Here’s the “obligatory” pair of shorts I’m taking on the trip! I like the material and fit of these. They’re light, and like all Aventura bottoms the waist is never uncomfortable. They spend a ton of time planning their designs around comfort, and these are another stellar example of that.

 

Lennox Skirt: So many ways I love this skirt! Super light material, flowy and pretty, comfy waist…I’ve been wearing it a ton.

 

Titus Ankle Pant: Pants are a requirement even on a summer roadtrip. And that’s fine by me. These pants are made from the softest organic cotton with just a little titch of lycra thrown in for comfort and stretch. They’ve got interesting details and a flattering fit. I plan to get these in more colors, but right now just have this color:

 

Vita Skirt: This is my newest addition and I’ve never traveled with it before! It’s hard to tell from the picture, but it’s actually quite sporty, with the contrasting stitching and the quick-drying material. It comes in a few different colors, but I kept it simple with black so I’d get more outfit options out of it.

 

 

SO! There you have it! A whole wardrobe for a typical summer RV roadtrip. The pieces all complement each other and are versatile enough to be worn in many different configurations. Hope you’ll check out the video and see for yourself!

Happy travels, all!

xoxo Stef

 

Cutting a Hole in Our RV's Wall - Seeking More Storage

After 15 years as an educator in both the public K-12 setting and the University level in Special Physical Education, Stef made the leap to her true passion… the fitness world. She’s currently a personal trainer and wellness coach specializing in seniors, medical conditions, and injuries. Stef loves running, cycling, and being “Mugga” to her two favorite mini-humans — Punky and Marshmallow. ❤️

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    110 thoughts on “How Not to Overpack Clothes for Trips! Stef’s Summer Travel Wardrobe”

    1. Trish Barnes

      Really love your look and really have difficulty with packing! Would sure appreciate a code, I’ll use it for sure if you have one. Thanks!

      Reply ↓
    2. laurel miller

      Thanks for all the great videos! You and James helped me decide to buy my Travato. If you get more codes would love to have one. Thanks!

      Reply ↓
      1. Stefany - Post author

        I was able to get a few more codes, so I’m happy to pass one on to you. Congrats on your new Travato, Laurel! Hope you love it as much as we do ours! Check your email, code sent!

        Reply ↓
    3. Stefany - Post author

      HEY EVERYONE! I’m currently out of codes. I’m trying to get more so if you wish you can still leave a comment requesting one and if I do get some I’ll email! xoxo Stef FitRV

      Reply ↓
    4. Peggy French

      Thanks for your videos and ideas. Love the TG…. a TG is my goal in 18 months. Until then I plan, plan, plan….. would love a code.

      Reply ↓
      1. Stefany - Post author

        Hey, planning is a good thing! Following the Travato Group on FB, you’ll be a Travato pro before you even step foot in your rig! Check your email, code sent!

        Reply ↓
    5. Nancy McHugh

      We really enjoy your website and videos. Been fans for a long time now! Thanks for the tips!

      I would love a coupon code! Thanks!

      Reply ↓
      1. Stefany - Post author

        Awww, Nancy, that’s so kind! And it makes me even happier I can share a code with you, ha! Check your email, just sent you a code! xoxo

        Reply ↓
    10. cheryl l clark

      Stef,

      I would love a discount code for Aventura if it is still available. Meanwhile, keep up the quality video productions!

      Reply ↓
    12. Susan Foster

      I love how everything coordinates! And thanks for mentioning the feel which is super important to me plus the fact that things are not see through. I would love to have the code to check out their options. Love that you modeled for us because you get a better idea of how things look.

      Reply ↓
      1. Stefany - Post author

        Yep it can be such a challenge buying online. Modeling and seeing how they move makes a huge difference! I sent you a code, let me know if you have any questions!

        Reply ↓
    13. Erica

      This is awesome! Thanks for sharing some cute outfit ideas that are good for traveling. While I love my t-shirts, I would also like some more feminine options. Would love the discount code. Thanks!

      Reply ↓
      1. Stefany - Post author

        Just sent you a code, Erica! Here’s to hoping you find something you love at Aventura as much as your t-shirts! (cuz yeah, somedays t-shirts just rock…) xoxo

        Reply ↓
    14. Alice Harrison

      Love the idea of “underpacking” and mix and matching. Just back from 3 weeks in an RV and am now planning a two week trip to Nicaragua. Would love the code!

      Reply ↓
      1. Stefany - Post author

        Oh wow two weeks in Nicaragua….amazing! Just sent a code! Have an incredible trip, Alice! xoxo

        Reply ↓
    15. Janet Johnson

      Thanks in advance for the coupon. I wish I’d had your packing list before we left on our 6 week west trip!! Brought lots of clothes back—–unworn Live and learn Janet

      Reply ↓
      1. Stefany - Post author

        Oh trust me Janet, I’ve done that a time to two (hundred) myself! Just sent you a code!

        Reply ↓
      1. Stefany - Post author

        As hot as it’s been this summer, I’m totally with you on the tank top addiction, sister! I just sent a code…now go score some great deals on tank tops!!! xoxo

        Reply ↓
    17. Jennifer Carl

      Thank you & James for all of your posts! I find that my many shoes can be useful as shims during packing. am one of your quiet readers, but had to write & ask for the discount code.

      Reply ↓
      1. Stefany - Post author

        HA! I got you out of hiding, Jennifer! Of course that was my master plan all along. Seriously, though…it’s great to hear from you. I just sent you a code so go check your email! xoxo

        Reply ↓
    19. Andrea Elkins

      I’ve been admiring their products since you wrote about the new skirt. Please send me the code! Thanks!

      Reply ↓
      1. Stefany - Post author

        LOL! Yeah that new skirt has been getting loads of use! Just sent you a code Andrea! Hope you’re having an amazing 4th of July! xoxo

        Reply ↓
      1. Stefany - Post author

        Karen, I find them pretty generous. I’m usually a size 4 anywhere else, but tend to be a size 2 with Aventura…EXCEPT that pair of Titus ankle pants I modeled above. For some reason that particular pair seems true to size (and I’m wearing the 4’s in the video!). Hope this helps!

        Reply ↓
    21. Karen

      Stefany:

      Thank you and James for all of the videos! The clothes look terrific on you. Please send me the discount code for Adventura.

      Karen

      Reply ↓
    22. Kelli

      Love your videos! Thank you so much for all the great info. I’ve been alternating between packing too many clothes and then the next time packing too few–what’s up with that? The timing of this introduction to Adventura is perfect. I did a major purge of my summer clothes just yesterday, so have lots of gaps to fill now. Would love to have the discount code if still available. Thanks so much!

      Reply ↓
      1. Stefany - Post author

        LOL! Yep, clothes packing can be so frustrating! I just sent you a code, Kelli ! Happy shopping! xoxo

        Reply ↓
    24. Michelle C.

      We are in the process of downsizing from a class A to a class C (LTV Unity 😉 ) which is actually how I found out about TheFitRV.

      Count me as one of the “overpackers” when it comes to clothing – I need to change that habit and what better to inspire that change than some new travel clothes 😉 The Aventura clothes look like they would be easy to hand wash and hang dry in the shower when on the road – have you done that on longer trips?

      I would love a code if you still have one available.

      Reply ↓
      1. Stefany - Post author

        How exciting, we LOVE the LTV Unity’s! Actually yes, we DO wash clothes on the road using our Scrubba bag, have you heard of those? We don’t RV without the Scrubba bag. No problems washing Aventura clothes on the road. I just sent you a code! Let me know if you have any troubles with it! And best of luck with your new rig! xoxo

        Reply ↓
        1. Michelle C.

          Thanks Stef – I had not heard of the Scrubba bag. Off to Google it (and to see if you have a post on it)!

      1. Stefany - Post author

        I just sent you a code, Sharon! Let me know if you have any questions! Thanks for stopping by! xoxo

        Reply ↓
    27. Karen embree

      Fantastic! I see some new running skirts in my future. Yes please, I would appreciate the code. Thank you for all your wisdom!

      Reply ↓
    28. Jan Christiansen

      Great video. I always over pack. May I please have a code. Also, where can I find your packing list for general RV items. We have a Roadtrek sprinter Thanks.

      Reply ↓
      1. Stefany - Post author

        Hi Jan! How awesome you’re a fellow campervan traveler! I’m a couple days away from publishing my packing lists…they will definitely show up on our next mailing list (which comes out every Monday). If you don’t subscribe, just try back in a few days and search “packing lists” in the search box here on the FitRV site. Also, I just emailed you a code!

        Reply ↓
      1. Stefany - Post author

        Yeah, I agree the eco-friendly focus of this company is pretty awesome. I just emailed you a code, Seth!

        Reply ↓
    30. Michael Hacker

      Great video! May I suggest a ramp/catwalk for your next show? Was afraid you might twist an ankle with all the jumping out of Lance. Any chance we’ll see James model a romper? Just kidding! Thanks again 🙂

      Reply ↓
      1. James

        Next time we’ll make a runway with 5 or 6 campground picnic tables! I even have a disco ball and colored lights!!!

        Reply ↓
      2. Stefany - Post author

        LOL! I love that idea, Michael! An RV catwalk ramp!!! James, next year we’re totally re-making this video and doing that. HA!

        Reply ↓
    33. Karen

      I was researching RVs and came across your videos – they are great! Love all the info you guys share with us.Two vacations this summer so I will be using your packing advice. I pack way too much…just in case. If the code is still available, may I have it please?

      Reply ↓
      1. Stefany - Post author

        Hi Karen! I hope your 2 trips will be incredible!!! Happy to share a code with you. I just emailed you so check your inbox! xoxo

        Reply ↓
    34. Reg

      While in the process of looking for an RV we stumbled upon your videos on YouTube. We’ve had a blast watching and learning from you. Please send a discount code for Adventura and after checking out their website – I’m very excited to try their clothing.

      Reply ↓
      1. Stefany - Post author

        Hi Reg! I’m so glad you found us on YouTube! I’m even more flattered you took the time to stop by the website! I just sent you a code…let me know if you have any questions! xoxo

        Reply ↓
      1. Stefany - Post author

        Yeah, you’ll love the Ecoths stuff. Pretty much everything you see James wear is Ecoths these days (besides his logo t-shirts, ugh). He’s not a big “fashion” guy…but he’s super-picky about fit, feel, and comfort. It’s hard to beat Ecoths for that. I just sent you a code! xoxo

        Reply ↓
    36. MaryBeth Mitchell

      Thanks for all the tips! My husband was laughing a bit at my packing guide based off of yours BUT, once I showed him all the tips from your other half he was totally hooked and hogged my computer to read the blogs! Would love a code if you still can give that out!

      Reply ↓
      1. Stefany - Post author

        LOL MaryBeth! That’s so great! Glad he had fun poking around the site. I just emailed you a code, and I hope you get something you end up loving for years and years to come!!! xoxo

        Reply ↓
    37. Jamie Amagai

      Thanks for such a fun post! All those outfits are so cute and look so comfortable. I’d love the Aventura code. Thanks!

      Reply ↓
      1. Stefany - Post author

        Glad you liked the post, Jamie! Yep, I’m at a point in my life where comfort is a huge priority. I’m so proud of Aventura for their focus on keeping us active gals comfy AND cute! Just sent you a code! xoxo

        Reply ↓
    38. Carolyn

      Thanks Stef! I’m impressed with your packing list of clothes. You’ve definitely got it down. After lugging a couple of suitcases on and off trains in Europe, I learned my lesson that less is more -never again :-).

      I’d like to try the skirts. Please send a discount code.

      We are not RVers yet but have been scouting them this year. Thx for your website – very educational and quite a range of topics, from poet tanks to casette toilets! :-). We appreciate your experience, adventurous spirit, and impact! Well done!!!!

      Reply ↓
      1. Stefany - Post author

        Awww, what a nice comment, Carolyn, thank you so much! I’m excited to hear you’re in scouting-mode…so fun! I just emailed you a code, hope you get something AWESOME! xoxo

        Reply ↓
    39. Cathryn Ronan

      Thank you so much for the detailed post! The video was so helpful as we’re the notes and links. This is exactly what I needed! I get overwhelmed when packing to travel and always take too much which weighs me down. Now I feel ready to shop and travel! Thank you!

      Reply ↓
      1. Stefany - Post author

        You’re so welcome, Cathryn! I’m going to email you a code shortly, so let me know if you don’t get it by end of today! xoxo

        Reply ↓
    41. Maggie Graeber

      Hi Stef, GREAT video!!! Your modeling skills are super!!!! I would like a discount code please! Do the clothes run true to size or larger? Sometimes I am a S and other times an XS. Thank you!

      Reply ↓
      1. Stefany - Post author

        How wonderful, Maggie! Just sent you an email with a code! Great question about sizing. I find their sizes very generous, so I’d guess you’d want to choose XS if you’re between sizes. The 2 skirts I modeled in the vid were smalls, the shorts were size 2, the pants were size 4. The dress was a small. I’m normally a 2 in any Aventura pants (and a 4 in other brands), but for some reason I needed bigger in the Titus pants (too many RV rally potlucks?!?!)! All the shirts were size small except the white flowy one. I went medium in that because that’s all they had in white, and I wanted it badly. It fits a little big in medium but I think it still works since it’s a flowy style anyways! Hope this helps! xoxo

        Reply ↓
        1. Maggie Graeber

          Joe wants to know if James is going to do a video on what he packs? Lol, I think Joe got excited with my clothes!

        2. Stefany - Post author

          Ha! Tell Joe I already tried getting James to make a Clothes-Packing-For-Men video. I’m sure you can imagine how well that suggestion went over. 😉

    43. Laura Ratliff

      I’d love the discount code, please! I’m interested in the skirts and that flannel shirt – I haven’t ever seen a flannel shirt I was really interested in, but the back on that one looks different… Hm… 🙂
      I’m assuming these are pretty rugged clothes. How old is your oldest piece, do ya know?
      Thanks!

      Reply ↓
      1. Stefany - Post author

        I’m the exact same about flannel shirts! I’ve never been a flannel-shirt type girl myself until Aventura. They do something so feminine with them, and just wait till you actually feel how light and soft the material is! I JUST sent you a code! My oldest piece is 2 years old, and I haven’t had any trouble with the quality. Just Wednesday I wore the Arden capris I got 2 years ago on a mountain hike! I’ve got them in a turquoise color and I just love them.

        Reply ↓
    44. Julie

      I’m interested in the code for Aventura and Ecoths. Thanks for sharing your system for clothes packing.

      Reply ↓
      1. Stefany - Post author

        What an excellent idea!!! They’re not on the website yet, but give me a few days and I’m on it!

        Reply ↓
    47. Rosalind MIsicko

      Hi Stef

      I am interested in the Aventura discount code. Thanks to you and James for always providing great and entertaining content.

      Reply ↓
      1. Stefany - Post author

        How wonderful! For 12 days, I’d probably add one more dress to my 4:5:1 plan, so it’d be a 4:5:2 plan! Hope you have a great trip! Let me know if you need a discount code! xoxo

        Reply ↓
      1. Stefany - Post author

        VERY big sunglasses and brimmed hat to hide the fact I’m with the crazy guy sitting by his campfire in a tux…

        Reply ↓
    52. Andy & Kim

      Great tips for clothes packing. After 30+ years of RVing we still bring way too many clothes! It’s more important to bring what we WILL wear rather than what we MIGHT wear. We will keep working on that!

      Andy & Kim

      Reply ↓
      1. Stefany - Post author

        Yeah, it’s a challenge for sure. I’ve found that having less options on the road is pretty freeing actually. I spend less time choosing, you know??? Let me know if you’d like a code! Happy to send one if so! xoxo

        Reply ↓
      2. Stefany - Post author

        LOL! For daywear a pair of flip flops and a pair of slides. I also have one pair of athletic shoes, one pair of biking shoes, one pair of hikers, and two cycling shoes (mountain biking and road cycling). That’s 7 pairs, YIKES! At least I’ve cut back from my days of 15…LOL!!! Sandy, let me know if you want a code! I wasn’t sure…happy to send if you’d like! xoxo

        Reply ↓

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