Eight Items I Won’t Travel Without
No one would accuse me of being a light packer. In fact, I am usually just the opposite. When my family decided to travel to Europe, I decided we were going to each travel with only a carry-on. This decision caused me so much anxiety, I almost abandoned it. I literally lamented on how I would choose what to bring for months, usually at night, as I was trying to fall asleep. (I miss you sleep).
After all that, we did make it in carry-ons but to be honest, we also each had a smaller bag too. Of course, that all went out the window after our first day shopping in Rome. We found so many good things, we purchased a giant suitcase to get it all home.
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Notorious Over-Packer
On our most recent trip to Cabo, I didn’t pack really well. I just couldn’t wrap my head around the fact that it wasn’t going to be hot. This was our first time in Cabo at Christmas. So, I was ill-prepared for the weather. It got me thinking, thankfully, there are several clothing items I always pack. In Cabo, this saved me because I added those items without even thinking and ended up wearing them almost every day, all week.
These items are my core travel pieces that I pack no matter what. I don’t call these items a capsule wardrobe because they don’t quite make up a full wardrobe. These are just the clothing items, I can’t live without when traveling. I have included them when packing for NYC to Fiji. These are the no brainer wardrobe pieces that I use all the time.
What I Pack – No Matter What!
• Black Leggings preferably from Zella 7/8 and Alo Yoga are my favorite
• Grey Tee – AG or Madewell. Both are light weight and pack easily. They layer well and a plain grey tee is always chic.
• Camo Jacket – The Sanctuary one I am wearing which I bring with me everywhere. It can be layered over sweaters, dresses or a tee. I have been eyeing the one from Rails. They are super cute. This one from Madewell is similar.
• James Perse Dress – This dress is perfect for travel. It doesn’t wrinkle and is totally versatile. Look for a post entirely dedicated to this dress as it is simply, that great!
• Chambray Shirt – I have both the J.Crew version and the Madewell version of this shirt. I wear this on the plane almost every time I travel. I layer it over my tee and add a jacket. It can go under a sweater or heavy sweatshirt. A classic button-down style will never go out of fashion.
• Levi’s Cropped Distressed Jeans – These go with me on every trip. They are surprisingly versatile. I have worn them with an oversize sweater and Ugg boots in cold weather or with a tank and sandals in warm weather. I have a short torso so I generally look for regular rise jeans. But Levi’s has some amazing hi-rise options if you prefer those.
• Pilates Socks – I started packing these regularly after spending a week in a rental home that had stone floors. I happened to have a pair left over in my purse and I slipped them on while walking around the house. They were perfect for keeping my feet warm and for preventing slipping on the stairs. I pack them regularly now.
• Cashmere Wrap – Last, but by no means least, a cashmere wrap is a travel must. They come in all sorts of patterns, colors and shapes so you can definitely find one to fit your personality. I know they can be pricey but they are an investment piece, you will use, All. The. Time! I am usually freezing on an airplane so I pack it in my carry-on and use it as a blanket when the AC gets too high.
You can wear it as a cover up for any evening look, especially if you stick with dark colors and I even use mine as an added layer on the bed (cause who wants to sleep with the comforter anywhere near their skin). There are so many great wrap options out there. I have several but I left my favorite one, (actually my DD did), a gift from my friend Sarah, in an Uber in Chicago. Alas, I hope it is keeping the Uber driver warm somewhere.
Benefits of Being an Over-packer?
In some ways, being an over-packer has its benefits (at least that is what I keep telling my hubby). I rarely get caught off guard by a certain climate and I am rarely in need of purchasing items I forgot. Overpacking means I am ready for different unique events that might pop up on our schedule. My biceps continue to remain strong from hauling my heavy luggage. =) Despite all of this, I am constantly striving to be a more efficient traveler. I may never get down to using a travel capsule wardrobe in a single carry-on but I will continue to pack the items that make planning easier. What items do you always pack? Shop My Items Below.
