I travel twice a month to cover destinations that inspire my readers and those planning their vacations. In order to navigate the airport efficiently, take Uber, and transport everything myself, I had to master the art of packing light. But as a former chronic overpacker, this wasn't easy for me. But once you start embracing the carry-on only lifestyle, there's no going back. It's been over 10 years since I checked my baggage, regardless of where I'm going or how long I'm going.
In addition to a quality suitcase (I trust the Gregory Quadro 22-inch hard case carry-on, I always carry Calpak's Luca duffel as my personal carry-on for extra clothes and accessories). ), successful carry-on travel requires a strategy. packing. When thinking about what clothes to bring, I try to think in terms of clothing and include versatile capsule wardrobe items that can be paired with multiple items (layering is also important). Finally, compressed packing cubes are surprisingly effective. I always have 14 travel essentials on my packing list so I don't have to check my luggage.
These go-to items include packing aids, versatile clothing and accessories, and more to help you maximize every inch of suitcase space without going over the limit. Even better, it's available on Amazon starting at $10.
Cambond Compressed Packing Cubes
Amazon
Compression organizers are a game changer. Not only does it flatten your items so you can pack more into your suitcase, but it also helps organize your outfit. You can pack clothes according to style, color and category. Cambond's durable nylon packing his cube has a double hem zipper for easy access and hassle-free zipping. It's also water resistant, which protects your items from possible leaks and spills. I also like how light it is. Avoid adding weight to your carry-on baggage at all costs.
Sold in sets with various size options and 45 colors to choose from. This product is popular among shoppers because of its high compression efficiency during packaging. And according to one Amazon reviewer, they helped him travel to Europe for “a week with just a backpack and carry-on.”
Anne Lovess romper with pockets
Amazon
I always carry a romper because it saves space and maximizes the possibilities of an outfit. This super cute piece from Anrabess, a popular brand on Amazon, is made from a comfortable blend of polyester, rayon, and spandex to ensure comfort and stretch. You can play around with the neckline and wear it in a variety of ways, including crew neck style, off-the-shoulder, and bardot styles. A front-tie drawstring at the waist accentuates the silhouette and provides a flattering fit.
The fabric is thick so it doesn't feel see-through. The perfect loungewear item, it's versatile enough to be worn at the beach, picnics, poolside, or even just running errands. Pair it with a nice pair of sandals or heels and it's the perfect outfit for dinner. I love pockets, and the romper comes with two side pockets for lightweight (but essential) items like lipstick and cash.
MM Lafleur Moreland Jacket
MML Lafleur
If you're going on a business trip, a seasonless suit is fine. Even if you're traveling for fun, a blazer and pants will instantly create a sophisticated look. MM LaFleur's Origami Tech collection is specially designed to be the ultimate travel companion. The Moreland jacket and his matching Colby pants are wrinkle-resistant and machine washable.
This set can be worn together or separately. This jacket pairs well with good old jeans for a sightseeing day or leggings for a flight. It can also be worn over a dress or blouse and skirt combination for a sophisticated lunch or dinner look. To get the same workwear-inspired travel outfit for less, you can get Amazon's best-selling blazer for $58.
Amazhiyu button-down midi dress with pockets and belt
Amazon
Get a do-it-all dress that you can wear during the day and do double duty at night. I'm obsessed with the celebrity-purveyor Jenny Kane day dress, but it costs a whopping $395, so girls need to have a budget. So when I found this linen button-down dress on Amazon, I couldn't wait to try it on. Sleeveless collar design with side slits and a removable self-tie belt for shaping. They look great and come in all shapes and sizes. Sometimes I use my favorite woven belt (more on this later) instead. This instantly creates a different vacation look without the need for additional clothing items.
Made of 100% linen with excellent breathability and moisture absorption, making it perfect for spring travel. He has two side pockets for storing essentials, a feature that reviewers praised. One shopper wrote, “I absolutely love this dress. The pockets are really big, which is great. Everything about this dress is high quality and kept me cool in the summer heat.” Another person pointed out that the pockets are “flat and don't stick out” when you put things in them.
Lightbird Foldable Summer Straw Bucket Beach Hat
Amazon
This packable straw hat is the ultimate travel hack. There have been many times when I wanted to bring a stylish hat, but ended up not carrying it because it got bulky in my luggage. No more worries with this stylish bucket hat that folds up for easy packing. Also, the inner cinch drawstring lining allows for easy adjustment to fit almost anyone.
It's the perfect travel accessory, as it not only protects you from the sun's rays, but also makes you look cool and stylish. Plus, using it to spice up your vacation outfits can give a fresh vibe to the looks you're already wearing.
The beauty of vermouth, the naked flight of five crayons
vermouth
When I travel, I always take a pair of sustainably sourced, plastic- and chemical-free, smartly packaged vermouth lip crayons with me. Each “flight” contains a color palette of five crayons in a variety of shades, giving you multiple lipstick options without taking up valuable toiletry bag space.
Plus, these long-wearing moisturizing crayons can be dabbed on your cheeks like a blusher or dabbed onto your eyelids instead of eyeshadow, further reducing your beauty product usage and keeping them in your cosmetic bag and other travel bags. Free up space for your essentials. continue.
Fjällräven Women's Kanken Hip Pack
Amazon
I'm a big fan of Fjällräven travel bags, thanks to their timeless design and practicality. Made from 100% vinylon fabric, this hip pack is durable, water resistant, and the only bag you'll ever need to pack. Whether you head into town for a day of window shopping, hit the trails for a hike, or hit the Strip for dinner, this feature will come in handy. It's so small that you can use it as a wallet in a larger bag or wallet if you prefer (if you need carry-on space). I like to wear it as a crossbody, but some fans wear it as a fanny pack.
Versatility aside, what really makes this bag great is its capacity. One shopper wrote: “I was worried at first because it looked so small, but it has three compartments.” [and a] Lots of rooms. ”
everlane day ballet flat
everlane
Everlane's Day Ballet Flats are easy to pack and don't take up much space. You can match it with casual outfits or dress it up for a nice dinner. It’s always on my packing list because of its adaptability. I have several pairs of flat shoes from this brand, and they're my favorite because they're chic and comfortable. I especially like the cute little bow at the top.
The soft, buttery leather molds to your foot, making them even more comfortable the more you wear them. They're the perfect travel shoe as they look stylish with denim, leggings, dresses, pants, and even shorts. Additionally, the outsole is made of rubber and won't slip on smooth or wet surfaces.
SeptCity Rattan Wide Stretch Straw Belt
Amazon
It's time to add some flowers to your favorite belt. A belt makes all the difference. I love creatively refreshing an outfit with this trendy belt. By replacing one outfit with another, you will be packing less. This is also why it's a must on my packing list. The rattan fabric adds an elegant touch to my favorite outfits, and I love wearing it over skirts, dresses, cardigans, and even with tunics (one of my favorite looks is this one) Pair it with Trovata Shift or Pretty Garden's floral frocks).
It has a durable wooden buckle and measures 41.3 inches long and 1.8 inches wide, but the stretchy design allows for some extra room. The belt is also available in beige and cream, both neutral colors that work well with most outfit palettes.
Acelitt Short Sleeve V-Neck Button Front Belted Jumpsuit
Amazon
Similar to rompers, jumpsuits streamline the amount of clothing you need to pack and provide extra space so you don't have to overpack and check your luggage. This elegant version from Amazon's popular brand Acelitt is ready for any situation. Simply add a sweater, blazer, or jacket on top to change the look. They're comfortable, trendy, and look great, and the fabric is soft and stretchy so you can wear them on the plane, around town, or out to dinner without having to change.
One traveler said: “I love this jumpsuit so much I'm wearing it in blue and black. [and I’m] Next time I will order olive green.Very easy to dress up or down [and] Fits true to size. I always get compliments. It would be nice to travel together. ”
mammut lambold light pants
Amazon
Mammut's Rumbold Light Pants are multifunctional for me. I wear it for runs, hikes, and lounging, and the lightweight, breathable material makes it perfect for the transitional spring temperatures (and you can wear it well into summer). The elastic waistband provides comfort for any activity, and he can switch to three-quarter length pants to change his look as the itinerary demands.
Two slit side pockets with zippers are perfect for hiking and travel. It's super easy to pack and has a water-repellent finish, so you'll be fine even if there's light rain in the forecast.
Everlane Cotton Modern Trench Coat
everlane
The classic trench coat is a wardrobe staple. I especially like to bring it on spring trips because it's great for changeable weather. If you're like me and have ever fallen in love with Jennifer Aniston's wardrobe on The Morning Show, you'll fall in love with Everlane's Cotton Trench Coat. It's half the price of other brands and features a classic silhouette. It comes with a belt that tightens the waistline, and is fully lined and water resistant.
However, if $268 is too much for your travel wardrobe budget, we also found various versions on Amazon for under $100. Take a look at the Farktop Double-Breasted Oversized Long Trench Coat (on sale for $80) or the Tanming Notched Lapel Double-Breasted Peacoat Style Trench (on sale for $60).
MM Lafleur Merit Jadigan
MM Lafleur
Benefits The Jardigan is an investment you'll be glad you made. A cross between a tailored jacket and a cardigan, the belt that ties at the front accentuates your figure and elevates your ensemble, making it perfect for wear from the desk to the airport to dinner. I've worn it on the way to Pilates class, to the airport, and to dinner numerous times because it's wrinkle-resistant, stretchy, and long enough to cover my body shape. Also, since it is a non-seasonal fabric, it can be used any time of the year.
You can achieve the same elegant, quiet, luxurious wardrobe vibe with the Anrabess Open Front Cardigan Jacket, a popular outerwear item on Amazon for just $50.
Feisedy Polarized Vintage Sunglasses Jackie O Cat Eye Sunglasses
Amazon
I've stopped paying hundreds of dollars for branded glasses because they can easily get damaged or lost, especially when traveling. These elegant sunglasses exude a 'Breakfast at Tiffany's' look at an attractive price and are incredibly versatile with their classic black cat-eye silhouette, perfect for any outfit and any occasion. can also be worn.
Not only are they lightweight and comfortable, they're also polarized to provide 100% UV protection from the sun. The lens is scratch resistant and has improved durability. One shopper praised the sunnies, saying, “They're better than expensive name brand sunglasses. I can now see better when I travel. I always take them with me when I travel without fear of losing them. “It's not…” he said. [a] Please still scratch. ”
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