As this is published, I will be on my way to Toronto to see Anastasia, and I couldn’t be more excited! I have a full weekend plans, with tea, museums, and markets on the docket for December in Canada. Meaning that I have to pack very strategically…. Over the years, I’ve learned what I need to pack and what I don’t need to pack to be prepared for a variety of situations. Everyone’s list needs a bit of personal adjustments, but these will go a long way. These are my travel style must haves, to be prepared for anything!
I’m going to say this immediately- I travel in a lot of cold climates, often with snow and temperatures below -15°, which negates a lot of general travel advice. Everyone swears by ballet flats when they travel, because you can dress them up or down. Well, they tend not to be overly supportive (unless you really shell out for them), and protect your feet from zero elements. And that light weight trench coat? Unhelpful in the snow, friends. These travel style must haves take me into cold weather, but could easily be worn in warmer climates, as well.
Le Pliage Tote, Longchamp
I know that this is a contentious choice, but I almost always take my Le Pliage when I travel now to use as a handbag. Yes, it is unstructured, large, and made of nylon, which some people don’t like. However, I personally think that it is classic enough to take you to most places (outside of a formal dinner/event), and casual enough to use when you are out during the day. And if you find yourself out and shopping during the day, you have somewhere to put your things without having to carry a million separate bags. My one tip is to put your key items (card case, lip chap, hair elastics, etc) in a small pouch to keep them easily accessible. I also love that for travel in general I can fold it up if I’m not using it, but use it on the plane if need be. (They are made to be folded up, origami-style, when not in use.) I have one in red and one in navy, both in the large size. My one big recommendation with the Le Pliage is to make sure that it is clean, and that the corners/edges aren’t worn or fraying. A fantastic investment!
Dry Shampoo + Brush, Hair Accessories
As someone who usually forgets to bring a brush with them, dry shampoo and a brush can be a lifesaver when you travel. I’m not a huge fan of continuously using dry shampoo. I find that the build-up gets to be just as gross as oily hair. However, if you want to have a quick shower when you get to your destination, dry shampoo can be a life-saver. However, the brush is KEY. If you don’t brush the dry shampoo out, it is just going to sit in your hair. I have had to run out and buy a cheap brush on a few trips. It isn’t the end of the world, but you will end up with several brushes at home. Just make sure that your dry shampoo bottle is under the maximum size for the airline!
I also recommend having some sort of hair accessory with you. Whatever works for you to make your hair manageable and presentable! I personally love headbands, as I’m sure everyone knows. I have two different headbands that I travel with, and always give me a simple but polished look. Maybe it’s a hair scarf, maybe it’s a clip/barrette. Find what works for you and use it! If you find yourself at a nicer restaurant or at the theatre, grab your accessory and take it up a step. (It will probably also save you time when getting ready.) I also have stopped to buy headbands when needed; like the brush, it isn’t the end of the world, but could be avoided.
Key Jewellery
Along the lines of the hair accessory, a key piece of jewellery can serve you well when you travel. I almost always travel with a long string of pearls. I can wear it long and I can knot it. And I can also wrap it around my wrist as a bracelet, if I am feeling that. In any case, it’s a nice thing to have if you find yourself in a non-casual situation. My big recommendation is to bring costume jewellery, though. If you happen to loose it or damage it, it’s not the end of the world. (Nothing will ruin a trip more than losing heirloom or wedding jewellery…) Whatever your go-to pieces are, remember to grab them! And I would recommend putting them in your bag, rather than wearing them to the airport. There is an excellent chance that you might set off detectors at security, and that’s a terrible start to the trip. (Unless you like starting with excitement?)
Scarf
This is a giant DUH, but scarfs are incredibly practical and useful. Use them for warmth or as a blanket on the plane. Wrap them as a pashmina if you are in a drafty restaurant or theatre. Belt it for a different look. And if you find yourself visiting a religious site and need to have covered shoulders, a scarf will usually do the trick. They are hyper useful, can fulfill pretty much any role you need them to. I don’t know anyone who doesn’t own at least one scarf! Bring a neutral scarf from your closet, and be on your way! Same recommendation as the Le Pliage bag: ensure it is in good condition. Wash the scarf before you leave, and make sure it doesn’t have any tears or holes. And remember that you may be touching your face with your scarf, so try to take care with what it touches. Germs spread, folks!
What are your travel style must haves right now?
Cheers,
The Historian
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