Top 5 Essential Packing Tips and Must-Have Items for Summer Travel

Whether I’m traveling for two days or two weeks, my philosophy is this: carry-on or bust. Packing everything in a single carry-on means less to pack and organize, less decision fatigue getting dressed, and less to haul around on your trip or vacation. After years of traveling, I’ve arrived at a handful of ride-or-die travel essentials. These are the heavy hitters that I take on pretty much every single trip and won’t leave home without.

Compact Carry-On

I’ve been using this compact suitcase for years, and it’s held up like a champ. I love that it’s well-priced, super lightweight, meets all international carry-on standards, and Away will replace or repair it for life. I pair it with this oversized tote which can hold my laptop, book, wallet, toiletries, snacks, and water bottle on the plane.

$275 – Carry-On – Away

Packing Cube Set

I only caught on to the packing cube craze in the past few years, and it’s been a game-changer. This set fits perfectly in my Away carry-on suitcase, but is versatile enough to keep things tidy and organized in any bag or suitcase. Tip: I use old dust-bags for packing my shoes.

$45 – Packing Cubes – Away

Travel Headphones

I normally use Airpods, but for the plane I like a more comfortable, padded headphone that can also plug in for movies and music. I opted to skip the splurge and instead bought a a highly rated budget pair. I love that they fold up neatly in my handbag and the price is right.

$10 Headphones – Sony

A Chic Crossbody

An elevated way to safely store all the travel essentials. Made by hand with the softest leather, this slouchy crescent bag comes with a shoulder strap that also works as a sling. The microsuede-lined interior features two slip pockets and is secured with a gold zipper to keep your passport, credit cards, and cash safe while you’re on the go.

$395 Crescent Bag – Freda Salvador

Feeling motivated to pack smarter, faster, and lighter for your next trip? Try these simple tips:

Tip 1: Commit to a Daily Uniform

Public Service Announcement: Nobody really notices, or cares, if you choose to wear a version of the same thing each day. Picking a basic uniform that you can wear on repeat makes it so much easier to pack light. On my recent trip to Paris I wore jeans, comfy sneakers, and a blouse, paired with a light layer and cross body bag, every single day. So simple – and despite my fears that I might be too casual, it seemed that every woman in Paris was also in sneakers (paired with an oversized trench – très chic!).

Tip 2: Embrace Monochrome

I love to keep it super simple and wear outfits that are all black, all white, or all denim, but you can get creative wearing head to toe of any color you like. Monochromatic outfits are chic and timeless, and you can also mix and match separate pieces to create brand new outfits. Pick a simple color palette (2-3 colors) for your trip and have fun mixing and matching.

Tip 3: Prep Like a Pro

To minimize stress around my departure date, I like to be completely packed up about one full week before taking off on a big trip. I can generally knock out laundry and then pack everything in advance with the exception of cosmetics, toiletries, and electronics. I leave a sticky-note on top of my bag with a list of reminders for things that can’t be packed until the last minute. Pro Tip: If you’re tight on space, pack a flat tote in your suitcase in case you pick up gifts or bulky items that can’t fit comfortably into your suitcase on the way home.

Safe travels!

Bestselling author of MINIMALISTA and ORGANIZED LIVING, Shira is a globally recognized home organizing expert and content creator. She has inspired thousands of people to clear clutter from their homes and lives, and developed a process and toolkit that applies to anyone, regardless of budget, space, or lifestyle. Shira has been featured in 100+ print and media outlets including Good Morning America, Vogue, Better Homes & Gardens, House Beautiful, Architectural Digest, Real Simple, and The New York Times.