I packed only a single carry-on for four days in Mexico—here’s everything I included.

I packed only a single carry-on for four days in Mexico—here’s everything I included.

      Jennifer Atilémile embodies the epitome of a woman who excels in many domains. A genuine multi-hyphenate, she is a model, writer, creative, activist, and intellectual. In her role as an editor in residence, she offers an insider's perspective on the fashion industry. I tend to overpack. I enjoy having various options and extras in case my mood or body feels different on the day I intend to wear my preselected outfits. I've become quite skilled at traveling solo with three heavy suitcases, but for a four-day trip to Punta Mita, I thought it would be somewhat embarrassing to show up with that much luggage. Even with my personal porter (my fiancé) accompanying me, I'm challenging myself to pack only a carry-on.

      One of my issues with overpacking is that I tend to pack for the trip I envision rather than the one I will actually experience. I prepare for the content I think I want to create, but by doing that, I'm already setting myself up for disappointment because I’m mentally checking out of my vacation before I’ve even begun. A holiday should focus on the memories made rather than on content creation. I used to be that way; I would arrive at a beach resort with 11 outfits and impractical shoes that I never ended up wearing. Consequently, I would feel let down when I didn’t get the “shots” for Instagram, missing out on fully engaging in the moment and regretting the lost enjoyment of my vacation.

      This time, I started packing a full week in advance. Sounds crazy, right? However, when done right, it significantly reduces unnecessary additions to my luggage. We were fortunate to be staying at the St. Regis in Punta Mita for an early honeymoon. The team there was incredibly helpful, sending our itinerary ahead of time so I wouldn’t have to guess at what clothing I might need. We have three dinners and a few other meals that require me to have stylish outfits, a champagne sabrage ceremony, and a sound bath. The real kicker is that the weather will feel like a sweltering 108°F with high humidity.

      To check or not to check? The first decision was whether to take a checked bag or try to fit everything into a carry-on. Four days’ worth of summer clothing amounts to very little in weight and volume. The only reason I would opt for a checked bag is if I hadn’t preplanned my outfits and wanted daily options. We want to dive straight into enjoying the hotel, meaning waiting to collect a checked bag post-flight would take away an hour of precious beach time. The trick is to pack items that can be worn multiple times. For instance, this Staud tote will serve as my beach bag during my stay at the St. Regis. If I weren't saving for the wedding, I’d also consider this Hermès option and one from Alex Mill.

      The case for a vacation capsule wardrobe: I've mapped everything out. We'll enjoy three dinners, three lunches, and three breakfasts while staying on-site, eliminating the need for practical clothing choices. I’m there to look great for myself and my future husband (I love saying that). I’ll be packing fabulous outfits. Unsurprisingly, I usually kick things off with my Australian brands for beach vacations because Australians truly excel in beachwear—so much so that even Chanel is hosting its cruise show in Sydney later this year.

      How you dress influences your day and mood, and I'm manifesting a day filled with beautiful, sunny beach vibes. Expect to find me swimming, reading, sipping drinks, and enjoying meals. I might even play some tennis or visit the spa. While it’s just four days, I’m going to demonstrate how my vacation capsule wardrobe can still fill a suitcase that may require sitting on to zip up and potentially checking on the return trip.

      Night One: Dinner Right After the Sabrage For the first night, I wanted one bridal look since it is an early honeymoon. I chose a set from Shona Joy, envisioning a sunset photo by the beach. My shoe rotation included a pair from Gianvito Rossi, perfect for special occasions; some Chloé-inspired jellies I could pair with different outfits; flip-flops from Archies; and Nou Kitty Sandals in Coco Snake. The focus is on versatility and being able to repeat outfit combinations.

      For Night Two: I wore a stunning black-and-white wrap dress from Ochre Lane, a promising new Aussie resortwear brand. I paired it with Chloé jellies.

      For Night Three: I aimed for something bright and fun for my final night's dinner, showcasing the vibrant color I acquire in the sun. This beautiful floral dress from Rixo matched perfectly, complemented by kitten flip-flops from Nou. Planning my outfits in advance, including shoes and accessories, means I avoid any last-minute decision-making after enjoying a few margaritas by the pool with only 15 minutes to prepare. I dislike

I packed only a single carry-on for four days in Mexico—here’s everything I included. I packed only a single carry-on for four days in Mexico—here’s everything I included. I packed only a single carry-on for four days in Mexico—here’s everything I included. I packed only a single carry-on for four days in Mexico—here’s everything I included. I packed only a single carry-on for four days in Mexico—here’s everything I included. I packed only a single carry-on for four days in Mexico—here’s everything I included. I packed only a single carry-on for four days in Mexico—here’s everything I included. I packed only a single carry-on for four days in Mexico—here’s everything I included. I packed only a single carry-on for four days in Mexico—here’s everything I included. I packed only a single carry-on for four days in Mexico—here’s everything I included. I packed only a single carry-on for four days in Mexico—here’s everything I included. I packed only a single carry-on for four days in Mexico—here’s everything I included. I packed only a single carry-on for four days in Mexico—here’s everything I included. I packed only a single carry-on for four days in Mexico—here’s everything I included. I packed only a single carry-on for four days in Mexico—here’s everything I included. I packed only a single carry-on for four days in Mexico—here’s everything I included. I packed only a single carry-on for four days in Mexico—here’s everything I included. I packed only a single carry-on for four days in Mexico—here’s everything I included. I packed only a single carry-on for four days in Mexico—here’s everything I included. I packed only a single carry-on for four days in Mexico—here’s everything I included. I packed only a single carry-on for four days in Mexico—here’s everything I included. I packed only a single carry-on for four days in Mexico—here’s everything I included. I packed only a single carry-on for four days in Mexico—here’s everything I included. I packed only a single carry-on for four days in Mexico—here’s everything I included. I packed only a single carry-on for four days in Mexico—here’s everything I included. I packed only a single carry-on for four days in Mexico—here’s everything I included. I packed only a single carry-on for four days in Mexico—here’s everything I included. I packed only a single carry-on for four days in Mexico—here’s everything I included. I packed only a single carry-on for four days in Mexico—here’s everything I included.

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I packed only a single carry-on for four days in Mexico—here’s everything I included.

As a fashion editor who typically tends to overpack, I found that this vacation capsule wardrobe made traveling with just a carry-on surprisingly simple. Here's a list of everything I brought with me.