Every now and again, I get the itch to plan a quick weekend getaway. With so many great deals on flights, it’s nearly impossible to turn down an opportunity to spend a few days exploring. Due to my impulsive travel habits, I nearly always stick to a packing routine. This involves organizational items and essential products to ensure a smooth travel process. Continue reading to see how to make the most out of your next adventure!

Start with Your Personal Items

Most people pack their personal bag last, but this is how random things find their way on your trip. Wearing a backpack allows me to be hands-free in the terminal and not have to worry about an achy shoulder from an overstuffed purse. Keep cash, travel documents, medication, and valuables (like jewelry) with you at all times. Not only is it more convenient, but you can board with a sound mind knowing that your personal items are safe.

But, there are several items outside of these items that I almost never travel without. Contigo™ Couture stainless steel water bottles are my new essential product and are key to staying hydrated while flying and also during your adventure. Most times, I’ll pack the empty bottle and fill it up after check-in. Many airports accommodate water bottle fill-up stations near classic water fountains, making it super easy to stay hydrated during your trip. The removable spout on the Contigo™Couture unthreads to make for easy cleaning or adding ice. Also, I don't need to be worried about warm water mid-flight thanks to Thermalock™ Vacuum Insulation keeping my drink cold for 24 hours (or hot for 10!). The on-brand and sleek designs of the new Couture line certainly help justify its place in my bag, too!

Reusable Clear Bag: It may be easy enough to fill a plastic bag with your liquid toiletries, but consider investing in a reusable clear toiletry bag. This will help you keep your travel-sized goods ready to grab at a moments notice. Target actually sells several TSA-approved bags with refillable bottles, I personally love this one.

Lightweight Scarf: I’m notoriously someone who gets cold while flying, because of this, I always make a point to pack a shawl or scarf. Alternatively, if you’re not needing to warm-up, you could also roll your scarf into a pillow or neck support. A lightweight sweater could also be a great alternative if you have space for it.

What Kind of Carry-On

Carrying a heavily packed duffle bag through the airport is not your idea of fun. Opt for a compact carry-on with wheels, this will save your arms. Another bonus to investing in a hardshell carry-on are models that feature spinning wheels and titanium retractable handles.

What to Pack

Plan on bringing 2-3 plain colored tops. Whether they be black, white or grey, make sure you select neutrals that match the other pieces within your bag. Folding is great if you're not limited on space, but ultimately it's inefficient when it comes to carry-on travel. Instead, try rolling garments in a "jelly-roll" style in packing cubes, I love these ones from Target.

Store undergarments in a mesh pocket or compartment of your luggage. Shoes wind up taking more space than is desired. If you’re packing sneakers or boots, wear one to the airport and pack the other. To save even more space you can stuff the toes with socks. You can also place shoes in a shower cap to prevent dirt transfer, a bonus since most hotels provide these within your room.

Don’t Pack it, Wear it!

If possible, reserve larger bulkier pieces to wear on the plane or carry outside of luggage. These pieces wind up taking up way too much space when packing, leaving little to no room. Traveling can be a true testament to last-minute packing. If traveling lightly is your thing, then you don't need to worry about overdoing your beauty bag.

SHOP

Cheers,

Kelly