How to pack smarter:

You don’t need to be concerned about the carry-on limits or the spray suntan lotion bottle getting confiscated. I’ve just finished packing for my whooping 2 and a half day trip to a beachy town and realized that my packing list, whether it’s for a ten night stay or a couple days, includes a whole bunch of staples I always have on hand. If I were traveling longer or to a major city, the additions would include: a pair or two of heels, a few more dressy tops, a jumpsuit, a dress, one cool edgy pant, and silky joggers. If I’m checking a big bag and headed to the beach, then I usually pack all that’s pictured here plus many more bathing suits and cover ups. Overall, for the day, I try and pack mix-and-match tanks and tees with jeans or fun lightweight joggers, shorts, or skirts. At night, I love the “denim and diamonds” look like wearing a dressy top (silk, sequins, or leather) with ripped jeans. Unlike the dressy-on-top approach, I also love pairing fun sparkly or leather pants with a rock n roll graphic or plain white tee. On my feet, it’s always go statement or casual: catch me wearing either high sexy heels (often what you’d least expect with the outfit) or sneakers and rarely anything in between. For layering in the evenings or on travel days, I always bring a long cardigan and denim jacket (or denim shirt). For cooler nights, I’d recommend a leather jacket, which is a bit heavier and always styles nicely with a scarf.

Don’t forget your toiletries, medication if needed, jewelry, pajamas (if you wear them), bras, socks, and underwear. Lots of people travel with full workout wardrobes - I tend to use my vacations as a vacation from working out, aside from a walk or bike ride at the beach. For these activities, I throw in a pair of nylon shorts. I don’t choose places that are super cold and I can’t ski, but I have perfected the après ski wardrobe, which I will cover one day. Taking me on a ski trip is your worst nightmare, except for my killer breakfasts. Otherwise I make annoying, fancy dinner reservations, over-layer everyone with jackets and scarves, and drink in the lodge starting with Bloody Mary’s at brunch. I’ve been told I’ll be left home the next time. :)

The most important items to pack these days are your mask and hand sanitizer ... grab a rain jacket and hat for outdoor dining + distanced socializing.

Stay safe and heathy!