I don’t think there was ever a time in my life that I didn’t love traveling. It’s always something I loved to do and looked forward to doing, even when I was young. For me, there’s a ritual to traveling that calms me, and I oddly feel at-home away from home. It doesn’t matter if it’s a shorter trip or a weeks-long trip, I love to jet set! In fact, when I was still working in the corporate world, I traveled overseas several times a year, so those super long flights and stays aren’t anything new to me.
I travel constantly and while, yes—a big part of that is for work, a lot of it is for pleasure, too! So even though the itinerary and content of my trips may change, one thing never does and that’s how I pack. Packing to me is therapeutic science—figuring out what I’m going to take, why I’m taking it, and how I’m going to pack it all in an efficient way is truly fun for me. It did take a little time to figure out the right pieces and process, but now it’s proven and I never feel like I forgot anything.
For today’s post, I want to dive into the 12 travel essentials and why they come along for the ride with me every time (pending destination). Obviously this list wouldn’t be suitable for a beach vacation, but generally for my quick trips to Dallas or work weeks in San Diego/ NYC these are my essentials. Of course I’ll add more items depending on what I’m doing while I’m there (maybe a special event I need a separate outfit for) or if weather is extra cold and I need a heavy coat, but again, this is my trusted foundation. Now, let’s get into it!
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boots | coatigan | black leggings | blue jeans | black blazer | white tshirt | black bodysuit | tan trousers | sneakers | grey joggers | black belt | black jeans
Black Bodysuit
I honestly don’t know how I dressed myself for so long without having this bodysuit in my life. I’ve been casually sharing it for the past few months but today is where it shines. I have 3 now bc I wear them SO often. I should prob grab a few more. It’s literally the perfect layering piece for fall/winter AND looks chic worn solo. It works with jeans, leather pants, joggers, and trousers. It’s like the unicorn of tops. It just goes with everything. And this is truly the only bodysuit I’ve worn that doesn’t feel like I’m wearing a bodysuit. Trust me you will love it.
Blue Jeans
These are my tried and true. I should prob buy another pair as back up bc that’s how good they are and how often I wear them. The fit and silhouette go with all styles of shoes making them the perfect travel jeans. The medium wash blue is classic and pairs perfectly with any neutral outfits I want to wear from day to night.
Coatigan
This is another one of those items I’ve had in my closet for years and it’s just a no-brainer when it comes to packing for my trips. Most of the time I wear it on the flight bc I get chilly but it’s also just so comfortable. It can go from hot-mess to hot-ness in the blink of an eye. Pair with a tee, joggers (or leggings) sneakers (or slippers) for all your cozy heart desires. Or layer over the black bodysuit, black jeans, and black booties for a comfy-chic night out. And yes. I have in all three colors now.
327 Sneakers
These might be my most worn sneakers from 2022 and I only just recently got them! I cannot believe how insanely comfortable they are. Plus the fact that they go with jeans, leggings, & joggers, makes them the perfect pair to travel with!
Black Jeans
Same as above. But seriously. These black jeans are my #1. No matter where I’m going or how long I’m going, I always travel with these black (and blue) jeans. Even with just these two styles, I can do so much with my outfits.
Logo Slim Belt
Instantly elevate your look by adding a sleek mini belt. I got this one for summer capsule and wear it almost daily. The logo is minimal and the gold hardware detail is understated yet elegant. Having a special accessory like this for travel is essential to take your look from day to night.
Tan Trousers
I featured these trousers in the fall capsule and since buying they have been on the weekly rotation. I love traveling in them (hello comfort) but also easily dress them up or down. I think trousers are the elevated update to jeans and you just can’t go wrong.
White T-Shirt
I’ve talked about this tee for years. It’s been my favorite for years so of course I would never travel without it. The slub fabric gives it a cool texture interest without being a boring white tee. It’s not see through and it’s a great layering piece to have while traveling. Honestly I normally bring 2-3 because you can never have too many, right?! I wear both small and medium depending on how I want the fit.
Boots
Hands down the best black boots I’ve ever owned. Not only are they the most comfortable, they are insanely chic. The minimal heel and squared off toe is so flattering. I never leave home without these boots because 9 times out of 10, those are the shoes I choose to wear with my looks
Grey Joggers
I wasn’t always one to travel with joggers but let me tell you once I started, I’ll never go back. Think leggings but better. They are just as essential when I stay at a hotel or a friends house. Early to wake up and want coffee but don’t want to wear pajamas or get fully dressed? Joggers. Want to lounge at your friends house and get comfy, but not too comfy? Joggers. Need to run a quick errand but not ready to decide on an outfit? Joggers. I could keep going. But there’s more to this post than joggers.
Black Blazer
No closet is complete without a classic black blazer, which is why I also travel with mine! The simplicity of this effortless style makes it easy to pair with a tee and sneakers or dress it up for dinner with heels of any kind. It’s the perfect piece to complete any outfit. My exact one is a great fit and you can’t beat the price!
Black Leggings
How could the leggings follow the joggers you’re thinking? Easy. Who doesn’t love a good pair of leggings. For long travel days, give me leggings and coatigan and I’ll be happy. Want to do a little physical activity on vacation but not fully commit? Leggings paired with a tee and sneakers is perfect. Also they roll into nothing so why not take a pair.
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