Packing for International Travel

There are millions of packing hacks online, from folding regimes to vacuum bags.

However, to truly succeed, be strategic about not only what you pack, but also what

goes in your carry on vs. checked luggage.

Once you’ve planned your type of travel—budget conscious or spare no expense—next

tackle your activities: beach resort, touring, outdoorsy, or museums. It’s usually a mix,

therefore your clothing must adapt from tourist to fine dining to ebike riding.

I always use accessories as my nicer items because they’re small, impactful, and easily

carried on. I usually take my favorite Louboutins too, but they need fit into my carry on

due to their value. Overall, be conscious of your carry on’s weight in case you need to

run down terminal with it—my no heels on travel day policy.

Handbags can do double duty too, boosting your look while serving as a carry on.

Typically, I use my large my Dolce Gabbana horse bit bag as a carry on, it easily fits my

laptop, travel wrap, and my small Chanel crossbody that doubles as my wallet.

I don’t pack irreplaceable items or expensive jewelry, it’s not worth it. Consider the

wear and tear of travel, as well as the fact that if you take it, you must be okay with the

risk of losing or damaging it. If you’re doing a celebratory trip and you’re dependent on

a specific outfit, like gown, carry it on!

Finally, when choosing your travel day outfit, be kind to yourself and only wear dark

colors or prints that won’t show stains. Otherwise, pack a change of clothes in your

carry on just in case.

Tammy’s Truism: If you’re like me, I plan out my outfits for each day in advance and pack each day separately, it reduces the stresses of travel.