The ‘333’ Method – The Ultimate Packing Hack When Traveling Light
I never bought into the popularized theory that “less is more.” For me, “more is more and more is fabulous!” When I’d go clothes shopping with my mom, I’d point to the delicious array of flashy dresses and sparkly shoes, only for her to tell me that, when it comes to fashion, less is always more. (I’m sure she was thinking of her bank account.)
Whenever she said those words, I’d stare at her with bewilderment. What did she mean? Wouldn’t it make sense for me to pack my closet with an unending display of dresses, skirts, and funky tops? That way, I’d never run out of exciting things to wear, right?
On top of that, there were so many trendy looks I wanted to experiment with. What if I felt the urge to embrace cottagecore one day, while the next I was dying to show up in gothic armor? Or what about a coquette? Barbie-core? E-girl? Insta baddie? There are just so many wild looks to choose from. But instead of just sticking to one, I bought clothes for each TikTok aesthetic trend across the board. (I even had my go at coastal cowgirl core. Yippee-ki-yay. Believe me, your girl has tried it all.)
But the truth is, I rarely ever wore all the costume-like clothes that now fill my closet to the brim. Thanks to an omnipresent over-consumption and fleeting TikTok trends, many of us are making constant impulse purchases without considering the long term effects of such wastefulness. Sure, a glittery bodycon mesh dress might look awesome for an Instagram pic, but is it practical for daily life? Not at all. Not even close. (Unless you’re the kind of person who wears glitter bodycon mesh dresses to CVS on the reg. If so, more power to you.)
I just know that I feel most like myself in fashionable clothes that are comfy, breathable, and high-quality. As a result, trendy TikTok “core” clothes collecting dust in my closet feel more like silly costumes than wearable in the real world.
It gave me a ton of anxiety — and buyer’s remorse — knowing all I had for day-to-day wear was totally over the top.My mother’s axiom “less is more” made complete sense. Perhaps she was right all along. Perhaps it’s way more efficient — and more stylish maybe? — to have a smaller selection of swank clothing that you can mix and match.
So, in an effort to minimize my chaotic closet, I embarked on my decluttering journey. I removed all garments that I never wore more than twice, while shopping my own wardrobe — aka keeping what I considered high-quality essentials. I then donated the clothes I no longer wanted — which made it a whole lot easier to toss them.
This decluttering approach is a Capsule Wardrobe — a carefully chosen collection of high-quality, versatile clothing items. It’s a minimalist practice that has been said to simplify, declutter, and add quality to your life. Less truly is more, Mom.
And you know what? This minimalist practice is an absolute life-saver when packing for travel.
What Is The 333 Method, And How Can It Help When Packing For Your Next Trip?
Following the Capsule Wardrobe’s footsteps, the 333 method is a great packing hack that went viral on TikTok. It aims to simplify your life with a smaller selection of clothing items. Feeling overwhelmed about what to pack for your next vacay? Don’t fret — the 333 Method is at your service!
This popular TikTok hack is a streamlined and stress-free way to pack. In short: travelers select 3 tops, 3 bottoms, and 3 pairs of shoes . . . I know, I know this seems like a measly amount of clothes, but surprisingly there are tons of ways — at least a dozen — to style them and create multiple outfits.
Here’s the skinny:
- Pick your pieces: 3 tops, 3 bottoms, and 3 pairs of shoes
- Mix and match: Mix-and-match your pieces to create as many outfits as possible
- Consider textures and colors: Be sure your pieces coordinate with each other and mix up their textures and colors
- Pack light: The 333 packing method can help you pack light and save time, space, and money on baggage fees
Fashion influencer Krista Lavrusik frequently posts 333 outfit videos on her social media accounts.
With the 333 method, you can mix-n-match in so many exciting and adorable ways. Not only will you look fab, but you’ll feel so much less cluttered and chaotic without a bag full of miscellaneous crap that you’ll probably never wear anyway. The 333 method keeps things sooo much more practical and simple, so you can pack light and never feel like you’ve gone overboard. Plus, that means buh-bye extra baggage fees! We won’t miss yah.
Why pretend you’re gonna wear outfits that you know in your heart-of-hearts you will not? Keep it cute n’ feasible, so you don’t have to lug an overpacked suitcase around the Parthenon.
Is The 333 Packing Method Unrealistic?
This minimalist packing trend is roaring through the socials, yet there are a few skeptics out there. For many, 333 seems way too light for an entire trip. Will this packing method really offer me enough outfits to choose from?
333 works for most people. But if you’re worried, there’s enough room to toss in bonus items like a practical romper or sundress. But don’t overdo it! Just two extra, safety-net pieces are more than enough.
Why Decluttering Is Beneficial For Your Mental Health
Not only will this decluttering hack help you feel more tidy and organized, but there are also studies which show how effective the 333 method and a capsule wardrobe can be for your mental health.
By streamlining your life and prioritizing quality over quantity, you’ll likely feel a genuine weight off your shoulders — like freeing yourself from everything that’s holding you back.
Letting go of things that no longer serve a purpose can be incredibly freeing and is a powerful way to ease stress and anxiety. In turn, you’ll likely feel more calm, content, and in control of your life.
What do you think? Are you ready to use the 333 method on your next big adventure?
