Packing: everyone’s least favorite task. I’ll start this post out by cutting to the fucking chase: I haven’t always been a carry-on kind of gal. Instead, I used to pride myself on jamming everything into one large suitcase. However, it became a challenge to not hit the 50 pound weight limit. Like, sitting on your suitcase zipping and sweating BAD. Shoes, skincare, T3 Travel Dryer: it’s a slippery slope into kitchen sink territory, I’ll admit. The truth? You really don’t need half that shit. How so? You have to KNOW your skin and be able to commit to a strategy on your wardrobe. Trust me, it’s easier than you think. I now breeze through business trips better than my male counterparts.
Step 1: Pick The Right Carry-On Luggage
Not all carry-on luggage is made equal. Whether or not you believe that (yet), it’s true. I’ll be honest, it took me a while to finally invest in a proper carry-on. When I finally did last year, things got infinitely easier. Let’s be serious: how many suitcases have you purchased that have broken within a year? For the price of two cheap suitcases, you’re looking at owning ONE that has a lifetime warranty and is made for packing strategically. Away is my go-to because it’s just designed SO well. The paint doesn’t ever get damaged, it has a built-in charger, and it fits a disturbing amount of stuff. Having the right carry-on personal item is also a must: my backpack’s technology allows for smart packing and is slim enough to fit under the seat.
Step 2: Get Serious About Travel Size Skincare
Let’s get real honest: who actually uses EVERY FKING makeup product you end up packing? The truth is, you don’t need it all. Here’s how to start downsizing: investing in non-full size toiletries is an absolute must for more than just space in your suitcase. It also takes the drama out of packing the night before. I have a Glossier grab bag filled with travel-sized skincare, makeup, and brushes that I only use for travel. It takes away my indecisiveness and allows me to focus on building the wardrobe I’ll need on the road. I literally grab it from the shelf and go. These products are my basics that cover all bases of skin needs during travel in any season. They also have universally excellent reviews for all skin types during travel:
Step 3: Travel-Sized Makeup
There’s no need to carry full-size anything anymore, thanks to Sephora. All the best selling favorites now come in an easy to pack size, and I’ve narrowed it down to the ones that actually produce incredible results while traveling. I’m talking about mascara that stays put but comes off easily when you need it to, and travel brushes that don’t suck.
Step 4: Roll Your Clothing
I have to thank my dad for teaching me how to pack strategically. His biggest tip that you can also learn from? Roll your clothing. This is especially important if you are traveling on business with nicer clothing. You don’t need a garment bag: roll up each in a drycleaning bag or trash bag to eliminate wrinkles. Don’t believe me? Go check my Travel Skincare story highlight on Instagram. I successfully carried silk St. John pants and a silk Calypso St. Barth dress to humid as FK Charleston. Like, I TELL YOU: fucking UNSCATHED. In order to master this: stack the rolls with the bulkiest at the bottom. Bring your universal undergarments: I like to use a convertible strapless bra and underwear in a skin tone color only, something that goes with every outfit. Trust me, you don’t NEED 2 bras. I mean it. Below are my must-haves:
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