Style

How To Pack Light But Still Have Endless Outfit Options When Traveling

A thoughtful travel wardrobe that feels effortless and expertly styled.

Written by Erin Cunningham

Packing light sounds simple in theory, but in practice? Not so much. You start with the essentials, sprinkle in a few “just in case” pieces, add the nice-to-haves, and suddenly you’re staring at a mountain of clothes and accessories wondering how it all escalated so quickly.

Designer and creative director Simonett Pereira is all too familiar with this struggle. “It took 15+ years of overpacking to finally commit to styling and taking photos of each look I want to wear on a trip,” she says. “It’s a bit of work up front, but it’s worth it once you’re living out of a suitcase for a few days.” The goal is simple: remove the guesswork before you even zip your bag.

Writer Tasnim Ahmed, who publishes the newsletter Journal on Substack, agrees that structure goes a long way. “It can be messy and time-consuming, but I put together full outfits — down to socks and underwear — for each day I’m away,” she says. “It staves my tendency to be finicky and frantic while getting dressed. I just pull out the outfit for the day instead of trying to figure out what to wear from a random assortment.” Her method aims to alleviate decision fatigue while still satisfying the desire to look — and feel — good.

Seasoned travelers like Pereira and Ahmed, as well as former fashion executive–turned-content creator Kara Mendelsohn, know the key to packing light isn’t necessarily packing less: Instead, it’s about ensuring every single piece is purposeful, and every morning when you get dressed is stress-free.

While preparation is key, the right tools make the process even easier. Think stackable containers that neatly corral everything from snacks to skincare, and a carry-on that somehow manages to hold more than seems possible. Below, these style insiders share the essentials that help them pack light, stay organized, and look effortlessly put-together—no matter how far they’re going or how many outfits they have planned.

Build Your System
Cadence
"I use Cadence cubes for my supplements and skincare. I love that they are labeled and magnetically stick together in a bunch," says Pereira. Plus, with Cadence’s “build your system” design, you can mix and match capsules for whatever you’re bringing — vitamins, SPF, body lotion, even tiny earrings. The magic is how they click together, making your toiletry bag feel strangely…satisfying.
Autumn Sonata Anna Toiletry Bag
Simonett
Pereira also recommends this toiletry bag because it fits everything else — makeup, skincare, hair products — without taking up too much space. The paisley print is classic but still feels modern, and the water-repellent crimson lining means you don’t have to stress over spills. It’s sturdy, roomy, and makes your whole setup feel more intentional.
$65
Oversized Padded White Tote Bag
Simonett
This oversized padded tote is another travel go-to for Pereira. “It fits everything, plus it has a bunch of compartments on the inside to keep everything organized,” she says. It’s lightweight but roomy, with a soft quilted finish and plenty of interior pockets so nothing ends up lost at the bottom. Practical, comfortable, and still stylish — it’s the bag that makes getting from point A to B feel a lot smoother.
$135
Cabin Plus
Rimowa
Mendelsohn recommends investing in a Rimowa Cabin Plus, especially for quick trips. “I’m often traveling abroad for just four nights and try to only bring a carry-on. The Rimowa Cabin Plus is an investment, but well worth it with its lifetime guarantee,” she says. The lightweight polycarbonate shell is easy to maneuver, and the multiwheel system glides through airports without the usual drag. Inside, dual compartments keep outfits separated and organized — ideal when you’re committed to carry-on only.
$1,050
Le Balm
Bonjout
Mendelsohn also reaches for this skin balm mid-flight. “My 50-year-old skin needs hydration while in flight, and my go-to is this French pharmaceutical-grade skin salve. No mess, no worrying about carrying on a liquid, and it works for face, lips, hands... pretty much everything,” she says. The solid balm is packed with 68 concentrated actives to nourish and repair the skin barrier, making it a single product that replaces half your in-flight routine. Perfect for planes, purses, and anywhere your skin needs help fast.
$130
Totes Super Mini Manual ECO Compact Umbrella in Black
Target
Another must-have? A super-compact travel umbrella. “My secret weapon for traveling is a tiny umbrella that fits in some of my smallest handbags. It provides ample coverage for one person (though I’ll squeeze my husband in under it at times, much to his annoyance), is well-made, and comes with an equally tiny sleeve to carry it around in,” Ahmed says.
$9.99
Ziploc Space Bag
Lowe's
For those who really want to maximize what they can bring, compression bags can be a game-changer. "This might be a slightly mad thing I do, but sometimes I pack my clothes in airtight bags. I’m quite attached to my pieces, and this lets me bring everything but the kitchen sink. If I’m visiting multiple places, I’ll even label the bags by destination. I love to peacock on vacation, but I have zero brain cells left to think about outfits — this way, I just pull out the designated bag and I’m set,” says Ahmed.
$6.98