Most fashion editors have a tale of an outfit misfortune so humbling that it changes how they dress — and what to pack in a carry-on bag — forever. Mine? Sitting next to an impossibly chic influencer while wearing a wool suit in 35°C. The lesson? I didn’t pack correctly, having convinced myself of a lot of nonsense in the name of capital-F fashion. Nonsense like “10-centimetre heels will be fine on cobblestones,” “this skirt will fit if you don’t eat lunch” and “you won’t sweat wearing a blazer and trousers in a heat wave.”
Today, I write this as a now-reformed, borderline-professional packer. With dozens of work trips, fashion months and the odd vacation under my belt, I’ve crafted my own manifesto to avoid baggage blunders. Here, the CliffsNotes.
Chalk it up to trust issues, but checking a bag is so 2019. Plus, there’s nothing like the smug satisfaction of breezing past the luggage carousels.
What to pack in a carry-on bag? Packing cubes aren’t a TikTok scam — thanks to the compression they offer, you can fit a lot more into less space. Also, if you bring two clear toiletry bags and put them on two different trays through security, you might be able to squeeze in that last serum. If anyone asks, we never said a word.
Note: This is not the time for clothes purchased in a moment of unusual style bravery. Leave the pink-feather-sleeved concoction at the back of the closet (where it has been living since you bought it). Stick to clothes and colours that you wear on a daily basis. My go-to hues are usually black, white and blue, as my high-waisted wide-leg jeans, white runners and black blazer are staples in my OOO outfits.
What to pack in a carry-on bag? Repeat after me: Under-pack on shoes, and over-pack on jewellery. One takes up little-to-no room, while the other will consume your entire luggage if you let it.
For your footwear, stick to the rule of threes: comfortable, casual and classic. Sneaks will protect your feet from blisters, flats (boots, loafers or ballet) will be your daytime date and a walkable pair of heels is for those extra-special nighttime escapades. Then, for jewellery, pack more pieces than you think you’ll need. Hoops and a well-placed bangle can elevate even the most basic of ensembles.
Yes, you may be going to Hawaii, but I promise you that your plane ride there will be far from tropical. In fact, it’s scientifically proven that your core temperature drops when you’re tired — like when you’re on a red-eye flight, for example.
The airport is one of the rare places in life that is a fashion judgment-free zone, where comfort rules above all. Wear a matching set with runners to give off that “undercover celebrity” type of look. Bonus points for oversized sunglasses, a Stanley water bottle and giant headphones.
If I had to suggest one non-negotiable packing item, it would be an oversized black blazer. Beyond versatile, this outerwear staple goes with virtually anything and can be used to dress up your jeans or make a silk dress more casual. Plus, if an unexpected cold spell hits or the AC feels like it’s coming on a little too strong (cough, Florida), you’ll be stylishly covered. My Babaton “Producer” blazer has clocked more miles than a 2016 Subaru Outback.
Travelling is the only time I really take photos and, more importantly, want my photo taken. As such, before a trip, I dedicate an hour to trying on everything I plan on packing and take awkward outfit selfies. While these will never see the light of day, they’re a great way to see how clothes look on camera and minimize any fashion regrets later on. After all, you can’t exactly retake a photo at the Eiffel Tower.
The items you need to pack like a pro.
This compact carry-on from Shay Mitchell’s Béis easily fits in the plane’s overhead compartment and features smooth-rolling 360° wheels and a cushioned handle. Plus, it’s available in a variety of colours in both matte and glossy finishes. Now, for what to pack in a carry-on bag? That’s entirely up to you.
If you’re like us, you’re almost always on the go when you’re travelling — and nothing disrupts a busy day more than painful shoes. But what’s a girl to do when sneakers just aren’t the vibe? Luckily, these cushioned leather Mary Janes from Clarks are not only super cute but will also provide you with all the support you need to take on those jam-packed vacay days.
Packing cubes may just be the biggest travel hack of all. Crafted to seamlessly compress even your bulkiest knits into a neat, compact rectangle, this four-set of cubes from Away are designed to perfectly fit inside your luggage for a stress-free packing experience.
This soft-structured, classic fit blazer by Babaton will take you from day to night on those busy travel days while also adding a subtle chic touch to any outfit. It’s also made from responsibly sourced fabrics so you can feel good about sporting an outwear staple that’s as eco-friendly as it is versatile.
Trying to stuff all your essential cleansers, serums and liquids into an airport-friendly toiletry bag will stump even the most experienced packers. Thankfully, this transparent reusable bag by Sephora Collection is roomy enough to fit everything you need and features a zippered closure for easy accessibility on the go.
Whether you’re taking off for a quick two-hour flight or settling in for a red-eye, comfortability is key for any travel outfit — but that shouldn’t be at the expense of style. With this 100 per cent cashmere cardigan and pants matching separates set from Gigi Hadid’s luxury knitwear brand Guest in Residence, rest assured that you’ll be both comfy and cute as you head to your next bucket list destination.
This article first appeared in FASHION’s November 2024 issue. Find out more here.
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