Luggage matters. I have a Briggs & Riley rollaboard that I love. It has technology that allows you to pack it, zip it and mush it, reducing the size by about 25%. It’s also pretty light empty. Airlines occasionally weigh carry-on. Even if they don’t, I have to be able to lift it into the overhead by myself, others rarely help. It’s always easy to roll, every direction. John has a Tumi that he likes; I find them too heavy and too expensive. Go to a big department store and try a bunch.
My two must brings are from Longchamp. The first is a Pliage backpack, the second a Pliage expandable. Both black. I fill the backpack with things I will need on the plane…headphones, water bottle, mini moisturizer, snack, Kleenex, my glasses, iPad, charging cord, lip gloss, eyeshade, kindle…Then I stick it inside the larger bag.
Wear Black. Or navy… they don’t show dirt or wrinkles as much and always look elegant. Color can come from accessories, scarves and jewelry. I have a black Aritzia Blazer I always travel with… because it has big pockets that fit my phone and passport. The fabric is SBD (satin backed crepe), so it doesn’t wrinkle. It layers well; looks professional when I need that yet always fashionable. They have pants made from the same fabric. They have an elastic waist, are as comfortable as pajamas yet look fab. These two items are where I start every time. They are my uniform. Find yours.
White Shirts: Brooks Brothers no iron shirts are my secret weapon…they look fresh through an entire trip…even when dirty…at least from a distance. And always on Instagram. I also bring a couple white t-shirts. Super versatile, good for layering, exercise or dressing up with pearls. I never bring many. If needed you can buy them anywhere in the world.
A Big Scarf (and a smaller one): A scarf has so many uses…blanket, curtain, skirt, sarong…it can even keep your neck warm. And of course it adds a huge splash of color.
Accessories: I usually stick to costume jewelry, I hate worrying about the good stuff. I believe in buy experiences not things except when it comes to earrings and bracelets which I pick up in markets…cheap and cheerful! I bring an envelope purse for evenings, doesn’t take up much room; dresses things up. A statement necklace does too.
Liquids: You really don’t need much…I bring sunscreen, night cream, serum., contact solution in small refillable containers. I use hotel shampoos, conditioners and lotions. When I run out, I buy more along the way. Great chance to try something new.
I walk a ton, so I bring sneakers…black ones. In a pinch I can wear them to a posh restaurant. I also bring one more pair either a pump, sandal or boot depending on the season. Among my favorites are shoes made by Tanya Heath… they have changeable heels that go from one to 3 inches, kitten to stiletto to block.
I’m still searching for the perfect walking shoe that I can wear all day and look glamourous.
Never bring things you don’t wear at home. And don’t bring just in case clothes…if you get invited to a ball while on the road, you can always go shopping!
All the specific products I’ve mentioned are things I genuinely love. Below are links to their websites. I have no relationships with the companies and do not get any kickbacks from them.
https://www.aritzia.com/en/home