10 must-haves for my 11 trips this year

Tokyo, Stockholm, Riviera Maya, Copenhagen — just a few of the places I’ve visited so far in 2024. Now that I’ve accumulated countless airline miles (hello, United Gold status), earned about 5 new stamps in my passport, and become very familiar with the JFK departure terminal, I decided to share a room at the TWA Hotel. I was considering purchasing. I mean, I traveled a lot this year. If there’s one thing I’ve learned through this process, it’s how to efficiently pack a carry-on for almost any trip, whether far or near, short or long. It all comes down to a few hard-working wardrobe staples.

Whether I’m sitting down to pack my beloved Away Big Carry suitcase for a quick weekend getaway or a long trip abroad, there’s a through line in my travel wardrobe that I can’t live without. There were several. (If you’re curious about my in-flight essentials, I’ve documented them here.) Now, back to the actual contents of my suitcase. Basic but versatile tops, cute and comfortable flats, and accessories from One State were all items I kept packing. Here are my top 10 easiest to store items and some of the outfits I’ve created with them.

1. Reform Dust Top

This is 100 times more chic than a regular white tank, but just as easy. The high neckline gives it an elegant look, while the stretchy fabric makes it extremely comfortable to wear. I found myself styling this many times while traveling with maxi skirts, jeans, and even capri leggings.

2. Eterne Francis Sweater

We don’t need to tell you why a cashmere sweater should be in your wardrobe, but we do need to draw your attention to this perfect sweater. Because this has been my trusty travel companion for many years. Light and thin like air, yet surprisingly warm, it’s the perfect layer to wear on and off the plane.

3. Levi’s 501 ’90s jeans

Easy, relaxing and classic. For me, there’s nothing better than Levi’s 501 jeans from the ’90s. A relaxed, straight fit with a mid-rise and button fly, it’s the next best thing to authentic vintage denim. Jeans take up so much space in my suitcase that I usually limit myself to packing one pair of jeans per trip, which often succeeds . Before you ask, they’re relaxed enough to jump in.

4. Dehunche Hollyhock Belt

My packing philosophy is to rely on classic clothing items and accent them with cool accessories to keep my outfits from looking too plain. D’Anche’s Hollyhock belt is the ultimate coordination piece that takes simple items, jeans, and T-shirts to another level.

5. Free People Carry Tube Top

Trust me, this is the tube top that will put an end to them all. I love how this model from Free People is soft, stretchy, and sculpted. It’s no wonder it’s called Carrie because of its unmistakable late-’90s vibe. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve worn it, including on three trips. Needless to say, I’m going to buy it in multiple colors so I can match it with everything.

6. White mesh ballet shoes

My co-worker Ana Escalante told me about it and I bought the much talked about $25 Target mesh flats. Featuring a memory foam sole, these shoes are a dream to walk on. The white sold out quickly, but the black is still mostly in stock. Fortunately, similar pairs can be found on the Internet.

7. Heaven Mayhem Earrings

I always have at least two pairs of Heaven Mayhem earrings in my jewelry case when I travel. They usually come in one gold and one silver pair, so you can choose depending on your outfit. Since I tend to go minimalist when I travel, I like to add some fun accessories to my outfits. These 80’s statement earrings never fail me.

8. Naadam Classic T-shirt

If you’re looking for a lightweight t-shirt that’s boxy but not too bulky, Naadam has created the perfect t-shirt.

9. DMY Studio Bibi Sunglasses

I’ve made the mistake of overloading my sunglasses in the past with the idea of ​​styling different pairs with different outfits, but every time I do, I reach for DMY Studios’ retro oval shades. It will be. Although the shape is classic, it has a slightly unusual feel, so I always get compliments wherever I go. I love it so much that I have it in black and brown, but I’ll probably buy whatever color comes out next.

10. Dish Gemi Marinen Midi Skirt

White maxi skirts are also lightweight, airy, and fun to layer, making them an item I’ve ended up bringing with me on everything from urban adventures to beach vacations. I’ve been wearing these from Dish all summer with tanks and sandals, and plan on styling them with sweaters and boots in the fall.