In 2017, Americans spent a whopping $1,036 billion in order to travel both domestically and abroad. Whether you’re catching the red eye to New York for a business meeting, or jetting off to a romantic destination like Paris or Monaco, chances are you could use some tips on how (and what) to pack.
We’ve got you covered with nine helpful packing hacks, so you can travel in style no matter where you’re headed.
1. Mix and Match Separates
One of the keys to effortless style is to pack a variety of separates that you can mix and match. It’s also a good idea to stick to a neutral color palette — think navy, black, and earth tones. (Don’t worry, we have some ideas on how to add pizzazz with color a little later in the article.)
Depending on the nature of your trip, you may be able to get away with packing only one pair of slacks, one or two pairs of leggings, a skirt or two, some tunics and tops. If you anticipate dressy dinners or nightclub outings, throw in a couple of LBDs that you can jazz up with accessories.
2. A Blanket Scarf or Pashmina
Pashminas were all the rage back in the early 00s, and they’ve never really gone out of style since. There’s a reason this large, soft shawl is a favorite of fashionistas on the go — it’s versatile as all get out.
Use your pashmina or blanket scarf as a shawl, sarong, skirt, swimsuit coverup or even a minidress. It also doubles as a pillow or lumbar support when you need a mid-flight catnap.
A colorful pashmina is one way to add interest if you’re going to be wearing mostly black clothing, but a black pashmina is a better choice in some ways, since it won’t show dirt as easily as a pastel or brightly colored one. It all depends on how you anticipate wearing it — or just take two!
3. The Humble Buff
A similarly versatile item is a buff. This one’s a lot smaller than the pashmina, and can be easily tied around a purse strap when it’s not in use. A simple, stretchy fabric tube, the buff can work as a headband, hairband, sleep mask, neck warmer, swimsuit coverup, or tube top.
It’s especially useful if you will be visiting temples or other religious attractions that require women to keep their hair covered. The buff can be scrunched into a ponytail holder or expanded and worn kerchief-style around your hair.
Don’t have a buff handy? You can make a substitute from a rectangle of stretchy jersey fabric — either baste the short ends together so that it forms a tube, or simply tie them.
4. Layer, Layer, Layer
If the Golden Rule of real estate is “location, location, location,” then the motto of a traveling fashion maven is “layer, layer, layer.” It can be hard to predict what temperatures you’ll face at your final destination. So many hotels, restaurants, galleries, and museums keep their air conditioning cranked that you will be glad to have the options that layered pieces provide.
Pack a thin cardigan, a slightly thicker zip-up hoodie or jacket, some long-sleeved tops, and a couple of tanks. That way you will be prepared for anything. Remember that your pashmina can be tied or worn in a number of ways to help ward off the chill, too.
5. Leggings
We touched on leggings before, but they are worth mentioning again. Leggings are another great way to layer if the air conditioning has your legs covered in goosebumps. They can be worn under a dress or skirt, or paired with your favorite tunic.
A thin, soft, and super-stretchy pair is best. They will move with you and be comfortable no matter what activity you’re engaged in. Leggings can also be pressed into service for a morning run on the beach, a late-afternoon yoga session, or just for walking around the city.
6. Shoes to Help You Travel in Style
Choosing footwear for a trip can present a real conundrum. You will want something comfortable (and easy to slip on and off during an airport security check) for the plane ride and for walking. Yet you also need a pair of heels for dining out or going dancing.
Flip-flops are a smart shoe to bring, since they take up very little room and come in handy, even if you’re not on an exotic beach vacation. They are perfect for heading down to the hotel lobby’s continental breakfast, or for strolling to the pool and sauna.
Espadrilles and wedge heels are fairly easy to dress up or down, depending on how chic you feel like being. And a good pair of combat-style or knee-high boots are also smart, especially in cooler climates.
Whatever shoes you choose, do not make the mistake of buying a brand-new pair for the trip. Blisters have a way of happening when you’re trying to enjoy yourself. So make sure your footwear is broken in and suitably comfortable.
7. Bold Accessories
One of the best ways to travel in style is to make sure to pack plenty of accessories. They don’t take up much room, but they will have a big impact on your look.
Think statement necklaces, bold hoop earrings and bangle bracelets, glitzy belts that can be used to turn an A-line tunic into a structured dress, and lots of colorful scarves and headbands.
Are You Ready To Travel in Style?
We understand how tempting it can be to overpack — after all, vacations are often about impromptu fun, and if you’re not prepared with the right outfit, you might miss out! But with these tips and packing hacks, you can travel in style and still not have to worry about paying a checked baggage fee.
Which of these tips is your favorite? Did we miss any helpful hints for traveling? Leave a comment below and share your favorite secrets for packing, staying comfortable on the plane, or making the most of your trip!
