Everything I packed for a month in Bali and Japan

Intentional packing for a month of carry on only slow travel

It was the most complex trip for me to pack for yet. Two weeks in Bali followed by two weeks in Japan (with a week at my mum’s either side). During that time I planned to spend a week nestled in Ubud’s jungle paths, a week by the beach in Uluwatu, four nights in Tokyo, a week in Kyoto with a day trip to Nara deer park and my last three nights in the mountains of Koyasan at a Buddhist temple. An adventure yes, but I’ll admit I was worried I might be biting off more than I could chew, especially travelling solo.

It would have been understandable to feel the need to pack up my life for such an expedition, but I knew carry on only was still the right choice for me - because globetrotting light brings me peace. I bought nothing new which would have horrified as well as confused the Jessica of old. Deciding what to pack was a grounding and comforting process, which might be surprising to some - but knowing I could rely on my capsule wardrobe to carry me anywhere gave me a sense of security as well as identity. Here’s everything I squeezed into my case…

The Essentials: What I Brought & Why

Introducing the summer in Asia capsule wardrobe…

My strategy was simple - I packed the clothes I love to wear on repeat. The colour palette is the same as what runs through my existing wardrobe: black, blush and white because I had no desire to experiment. It’s summer in Bali and Japan during June and July where temperatures can range from 22 to 35 degrees. I needed to ensure I was prepared for hot summer weather whilst still feeling like my most put together self and this is reflected in each choice. Also, I had to pack for jungle, city, mountain and beachfront stays.

1. Clothing (Timeless, Elegant, Versatile)

Colour Palette: Neutrals, blush, & effortless black

• 2 x Light Dress (sleeved midi dress and beach style tunic)

• 2x Slip Dresses (for evenings and daytime styled up or down)

• 2x Silk Camisoles (for comfy elegance both daytime and evening)

• 1x Midi Skirt (because I love the feel of satin material in the heat)

• 1x Comfortable Heels (low heeled sandals)

• 1x Flat Sandals (for wandering days)

• 1x Minimal Trainers (for walking heavy days)

• 1x Swimsuit (classic black one-piece)

• 1x Sleepwear & Yoga pants (cosy, soft & feminine for relaxed writing days and yoga classes)

Accessories (Light but Intentional)