Tuesday, April 16, 2013

Pakistan and Dubai: The Packing Challenge


Going to West Asia this spring? Leave the tank top and shorts at home.

This trip has been a packing challenge like none other. For this trip I must pack clothing for two very different countries, and very different occasions. I must look ultra fabulous in fashion-crazed Dubai, but not too flashy for the streets of Karachi. I must also have two formal outfits for an extravagant wedding, but the rest of the days I want to be Über-casual. I also need clothes that are suited for hot weather, but are modest and do not show my shoulders or legs (it's the law!).
How do I achieve all of these goals without hauling two large suitcases with me?
In fact, I might even have to do the ol' suitcase within a suitcase trick. 


Here is what I am bringing:

Luggage: 
  • 1 large suitcase 
  • 1 small suitcase
  • 1 laptop case
  • 1 handbag
  • 1 tiny purse

Clothes:
  • Formal attire for the wedding in Pakistan (2 saris, 1 shalwar kameez)
  • Casual attire for Pakistan (3 shalwar kameez)
  • Casual attire for Dubai  (2 silk blouses and 1 pair of leggings)
  • Formal attire for clubbing in Dubai (2 dresses)
  • Swimwear for Dubai (2 one-piece swimsuits)
  • Pajamas (3 sets)
  • Gym clothes for working out in Dubai (2 sets)
  • 1 towel
  • 3 Pairs of Shoes (1 pair of Sseko sandals, to be worn with everything, 1 pair of heels for the club, and 1 pair of gym shoes)

Accessories:
  • Jewelry for the wedding
  • 2 pairs of sunglasses
  • 1 wig (for the wedding or clubbing)
Electronics:
  • laptop and charger
  • external hard drive
  • camera and charger
  • iPhone and charger

Gifts:
  • Chocolate boxes for my host families in Pakistan
  • Girl scout cookies for my friend in Dubai

Yep, I could definitely use a lesson in how to pack lightly.

 

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