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Packing list calculator: how many clothes to pack

For a 7-day trip with laundry access, 7 tops, 3 bottoms and 3 pairs of shoes (one worn) are enough. The calculator does the math for your number of days, the weather and any special occasions on your trip.

Our editorial rule, not a standard: tops cover each day (up to a week if you can wash), bottoms rotate one per three tops, plus one extra outfit per special occasion. Pack pieces in one color family so everything mixes.

The logic behind the list

  • Tops get worn out fastest: one per day, capped at a week’s worth if you can do laundry.
  • Bottoms repeat: one for every three tops, and at least two.
  • Shoes: two pairs for trips of three days or fewer, three for longer ones, one of them worn.
  • Special occasions (a wedding, a dinner, a meeting) each get their own outfit.

Making everything mix

Pick one color family, say light neutrals with navy, and keep color for your accessories. Then every top works with every bottom, and 7 tops plus 3 bottoms become 21 outfits.

Adjusting for the weather

In warm weather, choose light fabrics that dry fast, like linen and rayon. In the cold, several thin layers do more than one bulky coat and take less room. On a work trip, count meetings as special occasions. The rule is our editorial guide, not a standard: adjust it to how you travel.