How I Pack: Freelance travel writer Nardia Plumridge
This travel writer has honed her travel skills with twice-monthly international jaunts between Europe, Asia and Australia, making her a packing pro. She’s swapped the beaches of Perth for the cobblestones of Florence. Since relocating, freelance travel writer Nardia Plumridge has sought the best the Tuscan capital offers, from cafes and restaurants to galleries and wine bars, as she divulges to escape. It’s ground research that has culminated in her new insider’s guide to the city, Lost in Florence.
But Florentine fabulousness aside, she’s honed her travel skills with twice-monthly international jaunts between Europe, Asia and Australia, making her a packing pro.
MY PACKING STYLE IS…
Last-minute, minimal and organised. I’ve realised you never wear everything you pack, so a capsule wardrobe is ideal.
I PACK FOR A HOLIDAY BY…
Making sure my clothing suits the style of that city or country. The worst decision is to take clothing that makes you look like a tourist. Sportswear for an art gallery? Leave it for the gym.
In France and Italy, I go for chic and comfy. I wear skinny jeans, cashmere sweaters, and ballet pumps for walking around cobbled streets. I also wear a little black dress for nighttime, and I always carry red lipstick.
MY ESSENTIALS FOR A TRIP TO ITALY INCLUDE…
Accessories! Italians are incredibly well-turned-out. Even if they’re just popping to the bank or cafe, there’s a sense of care and pride in their fashion choices. Scarves can be worn year-round, and jewellery is ideal for jazzing up an outfit. The attitude in Italy is to own a few items of great quality and show them off.
MY LUGGAGE IS…
Delsey cases are fantastic. I bought a set in Florence years ago, and they have travelled the world with me. For carry-on, I adore Raven + Lily, who are fair trade and use local leather.
MY OUTFIT WHEN I TRAVEL…
Jeans, a sweater and ballet pumps that are easy to slip on and off during airport security.
MY TOP PACKING HACK…
Less is more. I always put back a third of the clothes I pull out to pack, so I travel as lightly as possible.
I USED TO PACK…
High heels. These days, I keep shoes heel-free for maximum comfort.
MY TOP CARRY-ON TIP IS…
Always bring my own water bottle.
I NEVER BOARD WITHOUT…
I have headphones, a blanket, an eye mask, and a beauty bag with a few essential oil blends by DoTERRA. Their Motivate (peppermint, clementine, coriander, basil, and rosemary) oil is ideal to roll on for a zesty boost on arrival.
MY WASH BAG INCLUDES…
Eve Lom cleanser. I’ve been using her products for years.
MY BIGGEST PACKING MISTAKE…
Wine in my check-in bag. I thought the clothing would cushion the glass bottle – big mistake!
MY GO-TO TRAVEL APP IS…
Instagram. A great resource to find venues in a city by searching by hashtag.
I MAKE A HOTEL ROOM FEEL LIKE HOME BY…
I’m bringing travel candles by Aqua Flor in Florence or Karma Kamet in Bangkok and a Spotify playlist. Plus, organic teas by Pukka – I love Love (rose, camomile, lavender) blend.
Lost In Florence (Hardie Grant) is out now.
