How I’m Using the 5-4-3-2-1 Carry On Packing Method for Our Europe Trip
Italy, Albania & London – All in a Carry-On!
Packing for a vacation, especially in just a carry on, can sometimes feel just as overwhelming as planning the trip itself. But it doesn’t have to be! For our upcoming adventure to Italy, Albania, and London, I’m sticking to my version of the 5-4-3-2-1 packing method — a simple, carry-on-friendly formula designed to take the stress out of packing for a two-week trip.
What Is the 5-4-3-2-1 Packing Method?
This method helps you pack a minimalist travel capsule wardrobe. While the exact breakdown varies by traveler, the idea is to bring:
- 5 tops
- 4 bottoms
- 3 dresses or layers
- 2 pairs of shoes
- 1 swimsuit or specialty item
You can adjust based on your own needs and style. I’ll also be doing laundry at least once on this trip, which makes this method even more doable!
Why I Love a Capsule Wardrobe for Travel
As a secondhand fashion lover, I have some amazing thrifted pieces — but I often struggle to put cohesive outfits together. That’s why I’m creating an inspiration board of mix-and-match looks for each of our destinations. I want every piece I bring to earn its space in my suitcase.
Since we’re traveling to three different countries, I’m researching average weather for each location during our travel dates. Layering is key when you’re navigating different climates and want to avoid outfit fatigue. My goal: pack light, look cute, and stay comfortable!
No More Packing Regrets
Nothing is worse than lugging around clothes or accessories you never use. On our 2023 trip to Portugal, Spain, and Italy, I came pretty close to getting it right with my carry on. I wore most of what I packed, but we did have to buy a sweater in Barcelona when the weather dipped. (RIP to my favorite sweater and bra, both left behind in our Airbnb in Portugal.)
This time around, I’m prioritizing pieces that are easy to hand wash and quick to dry. As someone from dry Colorado, I always forget how long clothes take to dry in more humid climates — especially when using those slow combined washer-dryer units in Europe. Fast-drying fabrics are a must when living out of a carry-on.
Style Goals: Elevated but Practical
I’ve heard that the women in Albania really show up style-wise — so I’ll be stepping up my fashion game for this trip. No athleisure for me (well, aside from the anti-chafing shorts — if you know, you know!).
This trip is a chance to combine functionality with style, all while sticking to a carry-on. I’ll be sharing my full packing list, outfit inspiration, and thrifted travel staples in future posts — so stay tuned!
Warm Weather Packing List Using the 5-4-3-2-1 Method
Perfect for Southern Europe + a Quick Stop in London
Planning a trip across different climates and cultures can make packing feel like a puzzle — especially if you’re aiming to travel with just a carry-on. For our upcoming trip to Italy, Albania, and London, I’m using the 5-4-3-2-1 method to keep things streamlined but still stylish.
This list is designed for hot and warm weather, but I’ve included tips for layering or modifying based on cooler climates — especially useful for our quick stop in London, where the forecast swings from 70°F to 50°F (and maybe rain!).
🧳 Travel Capsule Wardrobe Essentials
Here are the core items I’ll be building my outfits around:
- Neutral maxi dress
- Lightweight button-down shirt (linen or cotton)
- Two pairs of supportive walking shoes to rotate
- One nice pair of flats (no heels — think cobblestones!)
- Linen or light-fabric shorts
- Lightweight trousers (for visiting religious or cultural sites where you need more coverage)
- A scarf or shawl for layering or modesty
- Shorts for underneath dresses and skirts (chafe protection = non-negotiable)
- A travel tote (foldable, for extra space or shopping)
- A lockable travel bag or anti-theft backpack
- Neutral, packable hat (avoid bold logos or stiff brims)
Tip: Every item should mix and match with multiple others to create a range of outfits — this is key for traveling light without feeling like you’re repeating the same thing every day.
👕 The 5-4-3-2-1 Packing Formula (My Version)
I’m adapting this popular minimalist method with a mix of style, function, and comfort:
- 5 Tops
- 4 Bottoms
- 3 Pairs of Shoes
- 2 Dresses
- 1 Accessory Set
🧥 Tops I’m Bringing
- Layering button-down – Either a light purple linen or a white/blue printed version
- Short sleeve button-down – Black or white (still deciding!)
- Basic tee – Cream or blue cotton-silk blend
- Silk tank – Black, dressy and breathable
- Statement top – Either my new blue patterned piece or a black button-down, or vest
(I’m sneaking another layer, a sweater to wear on the plane and have available for when I inevitably get cold to save my husband from my complaining)
👖 Bottoms I’m Packing
- Maxi skirt – Blue/white check or a neutral option
- Black wide-leg pants – Lightweight and flowy
- Off-white jean shorts
- Green linen shorts – Structured yet breezy
👟 Shoes That Can Handle Miles
- Colorful walking shoes – I love Ryka for their women-specific support and comfort
- White walking shoes – Dr. Scholl’s are comfy, but they may only last one intense trip
- Supportive sandals – Teva, Birkenstock (break them in first!), or Sorel
Note: If you’re a Birkenstock lover like me, walk in them a while before your trip — they mold to your feet and get better over time.
👗 Dresses for Day and Night
- Casual maxi dress – Breathable, neutral
- Dressy option – I’m deciding between:
- A floral button-down midi
- A pink bodycon
Having a nice outfit for an evening out always lifts my mood — especially in Europe, where everyone looks so effortlessly put together. After walking ancient cobblestone streets all day, putting on a cute dress for a late dinner feels like a treat.
💍 Accessory Set & Extras
- Sunglasses
- Jewelry basics
- Swimsuit
- Pajamas
- Voltage converter
- Travel umbrella
- Toiletries (remember: size limits and totals vary by country)
- Charging cords + camera
- Emergency Kit (band aids and pain relievers)
☁️ For Cooler or Rainy Destinations
If your destination is cooler (like London in our case), consider these swaps:
- Swap shorts for trousers or a long skirt
- Add a light sweater (or two) — wear your bulkiest layers on travel days
- Wear rain shoes or boots in transit and pack your sandals
- Skip the swimsuit if you won’t swim and use that space for an extra layer
London’s quick shift to chilly, rainy weather at the end of our trip will be a nice change of pace before heading home to possible snow!
🛍 Where I Shop
Secondhand Finds:
- Local thrift stores
- Poshmark
- ThredUp
- Depop (a little pricey but if you’re looking for something specific it’s a good option)
Affordable New Pieces:
- Uniqlo
- Old Navy
Links for when Amazon is the only option:
- Linen Pants :https://amzn.to/4lB7t6q
- Linen Shorts: https://amzn.to/4nOhy11
- Linen Long Sleeve Button Down: https://amzn.to/454XfVO
Final Thoughts
With a little planning, it’s totally possible to pack light and still feel stylish every day of your trip. The 5-4-3-2-1 method keeps things manageable, and knowing your pieces work together gives you more freedom to enjoy your adventure (instead of stressing about what to wear). And as always keep a little corner free for treasures to take home.
Let me know if you want a printable version of this list or a downloadable outfit planner — I’m happy to share!
Find more travel trips here
