By Ellen Warren - Tribune News Service

When packing for a trip, stick with a single color for the basics like pants, shorts, skirts, a sweater, a jacket for maximum mix-and-matching, says Answer Angel Ellen Warren.

Dear Answer Angel Ellen: For the first time since Covid changed our lives, I’m traveling again. I was never a very good packer but now I feel out of practice. Any tips on how to pack efficiently but fashionably would be welcome.

Dear Eva: Here are some guidelines that will work for you:

• Stick with a single color for the basics like pants, shorts, skirts, a sweater, a jacket for maximum mix-and-matching. (A dark color that won’t show dirt — like basic black, navy or brown is a huge plus.)

• Add color to that one-color foundation with easy packing T-shirts and no-iron tops, scarves and costume jewelry.

• Shoes are heavy, so stick with three pairs max: flip-flops for beach/pool that double as slippers; sneakers for walking and the gym; comfortable flats for dressy wear.

• If flying, carry on (do NOT check) anything you absolutely cannot afford to lose or break like medications, good jewelry, handcrafts, electronics.

• Check airline luggage size restrictions for carry-on as well as weight and size regulations for checked baggage, which can be very expensive, especially for low-cost airlines (and dimensions/weight rules are different overseas). This info could encourage you to pack light.

• Consider packing cubes that force you to organize and will limit rooting through your suitcase to find things. I’ve been happy with my Amazon Basics brand four-piece set (amazon.com, $23.97), which has lasted for many years and travels.

Dear Answer Angel Ellen: I can’t afford to spend a fortune on status sneakers and even if I had the money, it seems crazy to overspend on everyday footwear. But, I find myself yearning for more variety. Wearing the same sneakers every day is frugal but boring. Is there a low-cost solution?

Dear Lane: How’s this for a really inexpensive way to change how your sneakers look: Buy yourself a wardrobe of colorful shoelaces. The internet is overflowing with color options that will entirely change the look of your shoes. And you’ll be surprised and delighted by the insane number of color options. Just be sure to carefully measure the laces you’re replacing before ordering 15 pairs in assorted colors that are 6 inches too short — or ridiculously too long.

Dear Answer Angel Ellen: Where can I send old gently used bras and other underwear?

Dear Gail: Charities like Goodwill and Salvation Army will gladly accept your gently used undies for resale to support their charities. But you can also check with your local women’s shelters and facilities that provide aid for those who have no homes. In addition, an online search for “bra-specific charities” turns up a number of other donating options for you.

Debbie S. writes, “In answer to E. Harry W. regarding corralling the many remote control devices in the house, I label the back of each remote on a piece of painter’s tape. (It peels off with no residue). Also, an inexpensive, but decorative basket to place all the remotes in (per room). P.S. I also use the painter’s tape trick to label containers in the freezer. That way you don’t have to ruin the top by writing on it.”

From Phillipa L.: “Command makes Velcro strips in several sizes (amazon.com, homedepot.com, loews.com, target.com, $2.39 and up). Each remote could be attached to its device (TV, air conditioner, etc.). Just be certain that the Velcro strips don’t cover the battery compartments of your remotes. If you follow the directions carefully (there are videos online) they won’t leave any sticky residue.”

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