Frankie’s travel essentials
the items I never forget to pack + hacks
Although, this year has not been the year to travel a little weekend getaway or road trip (done safely, obviously) is still a great option. I used to be the queen overpacking but as I have gotten older, I have created a packing list for smooth and lighter traveling. I don’t even check my bags in anymore (even during a three-week vaycay), which honestly, I think is pretty impressive. Not only does this list prevent me from overpacking but is also makes the packing process more effective and almost painless (and saves some room for shopping, duh). Below is how I tackle upcoming travel plans to feel my best during my trip.
Pre Travel The week before I go out of town, I like to make sure I work out a little extra, eat a little cleaner, take an immune booster, download some Netflix movies, download or maybe even create a Spotify playlist, pick a good read for the plane ride or down time, give my skin a little extra hydration, transfer skincare products to reusable containers, notify my banks of travel dates, check the weather and lastly finalize my itinerary so I can plan out my outfits. For me knowing what type of activities, sightseeing, restaurants, etc. I will be doing on vaycay is critical in the process.. It allows you to pack appropriate outfits and more importantly not have an outfit meltdown when you don’t know what to wear for the day or night (we’ve all been there). As a rule of thumb, I like to pack mostly neutrals so I can style different looks with the same pieces – and when I say neutrals not just for clothing but for shoes, purses, etc. I like to add a little something to my outfits through accessories like a belt or jewelry which doesn’t take up too much space. If you have more of a colorful wardrobe, I would suggest picking a color scheme to help you strategize your outfits which in turn helps you keep the packing light. At the end of the day, pack pieces that you can count on feeling comfortable and confident in – this is key!
Packing List
Do yourself a favor - copy and paste this list to your notes app – you can thank me later.
Intimates (always pack extra + a strapless)
Socks
Pre-planned outfits (based on your itinerary + weather)
Swimsuits
Jewelry
Handbags (if you are going to an island – don’t forget your beach bag)
Shoes (sneakers, sandals, heels, flats, boots, flip flops – based on your looks)
Pajamas
Laundry bag
Sunglasses
Skincare products (I always throw one or two sheet masks + don’t forget sunscreen)
Cleansing wipes
Deodorant
Feminine products
Oral hygiene products
Shaving supplies
Chapstick
Perfume (I take travel sized since I don’t check my bag in)
Hair products and tools
Hand sanitizer
Disinfecting wipes
Tissues
Bandages
Itinerary
Wallet (make sure you have ID + cash)
Passport
Book/I Pad
Adapters
Air Pods
Laptop
Chargers
Pen/Pad
Medication
Mini steamer
Protein bar (or snack of choice)
Water bottle
Keys
Prescriptions glasses and/or contacts
Neck Pillow
Masks (!!!)
Day Of I pack 100% of my carry on the night before but the morning of there are a few items I wait to add to my tote – toothbrush, toothpaste, phone charger, hair- brush, air pods, cosmetic case, change of clothes and my phone. I like to eat a nutritious meal before traveling because I don’t like airplane food and I definitely don’t like to be hangry. I always wear something comfortable because I like to sleep on my way to my destination. I always wear my heaviest shoes on and drape my heaviest coat over my tote. This is a great little trick because I can use it as a blanket, it saves carry on space for other items and doesn’t add weight – we all want to avoid an overweight charge or having to rearrange our bag on the airport floor – am I right? Before take-off, I like to say a prayer to keep who I am traveling with, others on the plane/road and myself safe.
Hopefully this post has inspired you to say goodbye to overpacking.
