The time has come to pack my life into a suitcase (maybe 2) for my new adventure. Here is what I am taking...
There are plenty of things to keep in mind when packing for Saudi Arabia - hot climate, modest attire, maximum weight for luggage allowance...I don't want to miss anything!
Lucky for me I have Ahmed's sisters to give me guidance on what to bring clothing wise, and they will have an abaya waiting for me to make things easy.
Below is a list of basic clothing items I will be taking along with me. Natural fibres like cotton and linen are best for hot climates and tend to pack down smaller and take less space.
Sunglasses...like 4 pairs (I like options!)
Underwear (mum always says pack more than you need)
Socks (10 pairs)
Lightweight scarf
Pajamas (3 sets)
Jumper
Jacket
Tshirts (5)
Cami (2)
Leggings (4)
Jeans (2)
Loose pants (3)
Blouse (3)
Button shirt (2)
Skirt (2)
Casual dress (3)
Formal Dress (2)
Dress sneakers
Dress flats
Heels
Runners
When choosing what items I am taking, I think about what I can mix and match so I can minimise the number of items but maximise the options. The goal is to keep the weight and bulk down so I can put my heavier items in my bag like my hair tools and gifts for the family without going over the limit.
As a certified hair and makeup artist, I am rather attached to my makeup collection, but it would be silly to pack every item I own. So I have painstakingly sifted through my collection and managed to break it down to fit into one bag (It's a miracle!).
Mini primer spray
Setting spray
One bronzer
One powder blush
One cream blush in a pink shade that also works on lips
One cream highlighter and one powder
Two eyeshadow palettes
Two pencil eyeliners
One waterproof mascara
One foundation
One concealer
One powder
One eye primer
One brow pencil
One brow gel
Two SPF lip balms
Two lipsticks
One lipgloss
Three lip pencils
Face sunscreen
Cleanser
Makeup remover
Moisturiser
Clay mask
Sheet masks
Facial oil
Thermal protect hair spray
Hair mask
Shampoo and conditioner
Toothbrush
Toothpaste
Hairbrush
Hair dryer and flat iron
Clips and ties in a small packet
Makeup brushes
Deodorant
Safety razor and spare blades
It may look like a lot but it all packs down nice and compact. Some of this will also be in my carryon along with a book to read, noise cancelling headphones, my journal and pens, change of clothes, travel pillow, blanket, electronics, adapters and other essential items like travel documents, vaccine certificate, etc.
This is a pretty condensed packing list for being away for a year, and I will no doubt be buying new things and collecting souvenirs while over in Saudi.
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