I’ve always joked that I would live my life out of a suitcase if I could. Although that’s theoretically impossible with the state of my closet, I’m as close as I’ll ever get. After 24 years of long-haul trips and more airline miles than a Victorian-era child could ever imagine, I’ve perfected the art of packing thanks to smart, thoughtful outfit choices that will last me a week and a half that fit in just a carry-on suitcase.
Last year was a return to traveling for me. In total, I racked up over 150 hours on the go, including heading to Japan to see family, meeting up with friends in Spain, and taking road trips throughout California and New York. If I hadn’t had packing down to a science, I don’t know how I would have done it.
With the amount of airline rerouting and luggage delays nowadays, no one needs infinitely more stress when it comes to packing for a weekend trip if your luggage gets lost. Although it hasn’t happened to me yet (fingers crossed!), the number of horror stories I’ve seen on social media has made me begin to pack a few days’ worth of clothing I carry with me at all times.
Below are the foolproof outfits I pack each time I escape the city and travel somewhere new.
Black Trousers + White T-Shirt + Colored Cardigan
Call it classic, or call it the Matilda Djerf effect, but ever since replacing my airport-approved sweats with comfortable pants and basic tees, I’ve felt much cooler. For nearly every fashion capital you’re in, this timeless combo never goes wrong. For the adventurer, a brightly colored knit cardigan or sweater is always key for traveling to colder climates (or freezing airport lounges).
